This October, the Afro Caribbean Business Network (ACBN) will host the 3rd Annual Federal Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Conference from October 28th to 30th, 2024, at Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business. This significant event, funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, continues its mission of building sustainable ecosystems for Black entrepreneurs in Canada.

At its core, this three-day conference represents an important milestone for Black entrepreneurs and organizational leaders who seek to elevate their businesses while strengthening their communities. With a focus on capacity building, strategic planning, and networking, the event will bring together government officials, business leaders, and innovators to foster collaboration and share strategies for the continued growth of Black-led businesses in Canada.

The BEP 2024 Conference emphasizes innovation in entrepreneurship, as Black business owners increasingly look to social entrepreneurship models that merge profit with purpose. This approach has the potential to drive both economic success and social impact, providing the opportunity to uplift communities while addressing systemic inequities.

On Day 1, attendees will participate in conversations that focus on the achievements of Black entrepreneurs and the unique challenges they face in today’s business landscape. Open to the public, this day aims to connect people across the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including business owners, industry experts, and community members. The day will include networking opportunities, allowing for meaningful connections and the sharing of practical knowledge.

Days 2 and 3 will offer exclusive sessions for organizational leaders, delving into data collection, capacity building, and strategic development. These sessions are designed to provide actionable insights and equip leaders with the tools needed to continue growing their organizations beyond the BEP’s funding cycle.

One of the most exciting aspects of the conference is the shift towards social entrepreneurship, an innovative business model that merges social impact with profitability. This entrepreneurial mindset seeks to create businesses that not only succeed financially but also contribute positively to society—whether through job creation, community support, or social services. In many cases, social entrepreneurship has enabled Black-owned businesses to thrive while addressing the challenges of systemic inequality.

Social entrepreneurs leverage their businesses as platforms for change. The conference aims to highlight the long-term benefits of this approach, demonstrating that entrepreneurship can serve as a tool for both financial independence and social good.

As Canada’s Black entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to evolve, the conversation is shifting from addressing barriers to building sustainable solutions. By supporting a business ecosystem that values community growth and social responsibility, the BEP 2024 Conference is positioning itself as a crucial stepping stone for Black-led businesses. With a growing focus on the future of Black entrepreneurship in Canada.

Join Us in October

Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur, an emerging business leader, or someone passionate about supporting Black businesses, the BEP 2024 Conference is an unmissable event. It promises to be a dynamic space for learning, growth, and innovation—an opportunity to not only celebrate the successes of Black entrepreneurs but also contribute to a future where they can continue to thrive.

Let’s work together to build an ecosystem that supports sustainable, socially driven growth for Black entrepreneurs across Canada.

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