A month's worth of events are planned for black entrepreneurs in the region.
The 2023 Gem City Black Business Month in August aims to celebrate and support black entrepreneurs with workshops, networking events, opportunities to support local businesses, and a new awards ceremony.
“We want to help Black entrepreneurs amplify their power by connecting them with resources they need to grow their businesses and celebrating their strides,” said Whitney Barkley, director of the Greater West Dayton Incubator (GWDI). “We are grateful for the support of our startup ecosystem partners to create a diverse spectrum of events that Black business owners can benefit from through networking and education.”
The Black Business Month Awards at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, showcase aspects of business leadership, including recognition for a business owner who has paved the way for others; a young entrepreneur with significant achievements; a person or organization that has facilitated partnerships and growth; an entrepreneur with relentless drive and determination; and a community favorite, according to a release.
The event will include a Power Hour Financial Empowerment Panel. The awards ceremony is open to the public. More information and registration is available online.
A full schedule of Black Business Month events is available on the Launch Dayton website.
The Greater West Dayton Incubator and Dayton chapter of the National Black MBA Association also will host a free event on building a resilient business.
Barkley and GWDI Associate Director Ty Corbitt will give the keynote address on creating sustainable entrepreneurs in the 21st century at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 18, at the Hub Powered by PNC at the Dayton Arcade.
The Greater West Dayton Incubator is a partnership with the University of Dayton and the community, with support from The Entrepreneurs’ Center. It offers Business Blitz boot camps; funds LLC applications; and a 12-month Urban Elevation Accelerator program that grants business owners funding through a $50,000 gift from Fifth Third Bank.
