BLACK BUSINESS ASSOCIATION OF BC: Working together to provide a stable economic foundation for future generations of black entrepreneurs
Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities.
The 2022 theme for Black History Month is: “February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day,” which focused on recognizing the daily contributions that Black Canadians make to Canada.
Black Canadians have helped shape Canadian heritage and identity and have made and continue to make enormous contributions to our country’s wellbeing and prosperity.
This month, in our city, we’ve had the opportunity to celebrate and learn about the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians throughout history, have done much to make Canada the culturally diverse country it is today. From soul and R&B singer Krystle Dos Santos, author Janice Lynn Mather, with an online webinar on micro-aggressions, their impacts, how to work through these uncomfortable situations, and the takeover of the Surrey Art Gallery Instagram page (ongoing until the end of the month).
One effective way to fight systemic racial inequality is by putting your money where your mouth is. Commit to supporting Black-owned businesses in your area. So, if you’re looking to find a Black-owned company quickly, these valuable online resources can help. Visit www.blackbizglobal.com, and browse the new online directory. You’ll discover the Black Business Association of BC is right in your neighbourhood in Newton.
Clavia Alleyne, Vice-President and co-founder of the association, is motivated to develop entrepreneurship in the community and the unity formed by black businesses working together to provide a stable economic foundation for future generations.
He believes that one of the most significant challenges they face is to expand the market access of small businesses. Looking ahead to the future, one of the key solutions is to develop a sustainability strategy with which we can teach young people and encourage them to get into entrepreneurship. Only through this way can we develop a strong foundation that will encourage them towards economic success, which is required for the growth of our community.
They want to hear from you. You can nominate your favourite business and show them some love. At the BBABC, you can find information about this year’s Business Excellence Awards, (at the Civic Hotel in September 2022) which will celebrate our local black entrepreneurs and businesses.
There are many vehicles developed and in development for black businesses to grow, with marketing support, business building with Amazon; and many more. There are also great opportunities for Black entrepreneurs (ages 18-39) for potential startup loan financing, including up to two years of mentorship and access to resources and networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs across Canada.
With Diversity and Inclusion as core values, Futurpreneur supports young Canadian entrepreneurs from all backgrounds, helping them launch and grow successful businesses.
They launched this tailored version of their core Startup Program specifically to help address some of the barriers to success many aspiring Black entrepreneurs face. This program is funded by RBC, with additional loan financing from BDC.
The Newton News provides an opportunity for the Newton BIA to gain awareness in the community and promote local news, & BIA programs. This endeavor allows BIA members to advertise their businesses in the monthly publication. Pick up your copy of the Surrey Now-Leader today!