Afro Caribbean Business Network

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  • HR Systems That Scale: Insights from Franchising Expert Maliesa Cadogan for Black Entrepreneurs

    HR Systems That Scale: Insights from Franchising Expert Maliesa Cadogan for Black Entrepreneurs

    Scalable HR Systems: The Key to Growth for Black Entrepreneurs

    Breaking Through Business Plateaus

    What makes some businesses grow while others stay small? Often, it comes down to one key factor: human resources systems. For Black entrepreneurs ready to expand beyond founder-led operations, solid HR frameworks serve as vital infrastructure for growth.

    Meet the Expert: Maliesa Cadogan

    Maliesa Cadogan will speak at the upcoming ACBN Legacy Symposium. As an expert in franchise operations, she highlights that scalable HR systems must focus on three main areas. These include recruitment, training, and performance management. Each area needs systems that work without the founder’s daily involvement while still maintaining quality.

    Building Strong Recruitment Systems

    Recruitment systems form the foundation of scalable businesses. However, most small businesses hire reactively when positions open up. In contrast, Cadogan suggests an “always-on” talent search that finds potential team members before urgent needs arise. This forward-thinking approach includes:

    • Creating specific candidate profiles for each role
    • Using standard evaluation tools to reduce bias
    • Building talent pipelines through community partnerships

    For Black entrepreneurs, systematic recruitment helps overcome limited access to traditional hiring networks. By creating clear processes for finding candidates beyond personal connections, these systems widen the talent pool. Moreover, they reduce dependence on networks that have historically excluded Black professionals.

    Developing Effective Training Systems

    Training systems bridge the gap between hiring and performance. Based on her franchise expertise, Cadogan stresses the importance of modular, repeatable training programs. These programs break complex operations into teachable parts. Additionally, effective training systems feature:

    • Clear learning goals
    • Various teaching methods
    • Built-in skill assessments

    Implementing Performance Management

    Furthermore, performance management systems create accountability without requiring the founder’s constant presence. These frameworks establish:

    • Clear metrics for each position
    • Regular evaluation schedules
    • Consistent feedback methods that work independently

    The Franchise Connection

    For Black entrepreneurs considering franchising their businesses, these HR systems aren’t optional extras. In fact, they form the core of what franchisees actually buy. Therefore, the value of a franchise directly relates to how good and complete these systems are.

    Take Action at the ACBN Legacy Symposium

    At the ACBN Legacy Symposium, Cadogan will share specific frameworks for developing these essential systems. As a result, Black entrepreneurs will receive actionable templates they can implement right away. By addressing these HR components systematically rather than reactively, Black business owners can build organizations that grow far beyond what one person could manage. Consequently, they create businesses with both immediate impact and lasting value.

    Register for the Symposium

  • Dr. George Fraser’s Approach to Wealth-Building Through Business Networks that all Black Entrepreneurs Should Know

    Dr. George Fraser’s Approach to Wealth-Building Through Business Networks that all Black Entrepreneurs Should Know

    The Power of Collective Action

    For more than three decades, Dr. George Fraser has championed a powerful message to Black entrepreneurs: systemic barriers cannot fall to individual effort alone, but strategic networks and collective action can overcome them. Dr. Fraser, founder of FraserNet and keynote speaker at the upcoming ACBN Legacy Symposium, offers Black business owners a proven pathway to wealth through network-based strategies.

    Networking as a Core Business Function

    Fraser’s methodology starts with a fundamental perspective shift. He urges entrepreneurs to treat relationship-building as a primary business function. This approach deserves dedicated time, resources, and measurement systems. Entrepreneurs transform networking from casual event conversations into strategic alliance-building with measurable returns.

    The Five Critical Connections

    At the heart of Fraser’s methodology lies “power networking.” This concept involves the deliberate cultivation of five specific connection types:

    • Knowledge sources
    • Opportunity brokers
    • Influence amplifiers
    • Resource providers
    • Door openers

    Entrepreneurs create networks with tangible business value by nurturing relationships in each category. These connections go far beyond mere social interactions.

    Strategic Positioning for Black Entrepreneurs

    Fraser highlights “network intelligence” specifically for Black entrepreneurs. This skill helps them understand how information and opportunities flow through existing business ecosystems. Black business owners can overcome information asymmetry by positioning themselves at critical junctures. This strategy addresses the disadvantage many face without inherited access to established networks.

    Creating Sustainable Networks Through Value Exchange

    The sustainability of networks depends on reciprocity. Fraser teaches entrepreneurs to identify their unique “network value” – specific expertise, connections, or resources they offer others. This value-first mindset transforms networking into mutually beneficial exchanges rather than requests for help.

    The 5-5-5 Method for Network Maintenance

    Fraser combats relationship atrophy with his systematic “5-5-5” method. This approach encourages entrepreneurs to:

    • Connect deeply with five new people monthly
    • Reconnect with five existing contacts weekly
    • Invest significantly in five key relationships daily

    The Path to Wealth and Community Transformation

    At the ACBN Legacy Symposium, Fraser will demonstrate how his methodical approach has helped thousands of Black entrepreneurs access previously invisible opportunities. His message resonates clearly with Black business owners building sustainable enterprises: strategic networks serve as essential infrastructure for wealth creation in a business landscape shaped by structural inequities. These networks can transform both individual businesses and entire communities.

    Register for the Symposium

  • Learning from Brian Scudamore: How 1-800-GOT-JUNK’s Systems Led to Franchise Success

    Learning from Brian Scudamore: How 1-800-GOT-JUNK’s Systems Led to Franchise Success

    When Brian Scudamore spotted an old pickup truck in a McDonald’s drive-thru in 1989, he saw more than just a vehicle—he envisioned a system that would revolutionize an entire industry. Today, as 1-800-GOT-JUNK approaches a billion dollars in revenue, Scudamore’s journey offers powerful lessons for Black entrepreneurs looking to build scalable, systems-driven businesses.

    The junk removal industry was fragmented and unprofessional when Scudamore entered it. Most operators were independent, with inconsistent service and unpredictable availability. Scudamore’s genius wasn’t in creating a new service but in systematizing an existing one. He implemented three key systems that transformed the business from a one-truck operation into an international franchise empire.

    First, he created a customer experience system that standardized every touchpoint, from the initial phone call (with a memorable number) to the final cleanup. The system included scripted greetings, uniformed teams, transparent pricing, and spotless trucks. This consistency built trust and allowed for premium pricing in an industry known for bargaining.

    Second, Scudamore developed an operations system that maximized efficiency. Truck routes were optimized, inventory was precisely controlled, and disposal processes were environmentally responsible and documented. These operational efficiencies created margins substantially higher than industry averages.

    Third, and perhaps most importantly, Scudamore built a people system focused on finding the right team members and developing them through standardized training. This system enabled rapid scaling without sacrificing quality or culture.

    More insights can be found in his book BYOB – Build Your Own Business, Be Your Own Boss

    For Black entrepreneurs, Scudamore’s approach illustrates how systematization can overcome traditional barriers to growth. By creating documented processes that can be replicated by others, entrepreneurs can scale beyond their personal limitations and build businesses with transferable value.

    As a keynote speaker at the upcoming ACBN Legacy Symposium, Scudamore will share how these systems allowed him to transform a simple service into a franchise opportunity that has created wealth for hundreds of franchise owners across North America. His lesson is clear: in business, the system is the solution. By focusing on creating robust, replicable systems rather than just selling products or services, Black entrepreneurs can build enterprises that generate wealth for generations to come.

    Register for Symposium here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/acbn-legacy-symposium-2025-tickets-1089074062839?aff=acbnblog

  • Building Robust Business Systems: Why It’s Critical for Today’s Black Entrepreneurs

    Building Robust Business Systems: Why It’s Critical for Today’s Black Entrepreneurs

    In the world of entrepreneurship, the difference between struggling and thriving often comes down to one factor: systems. For Black entrepreneurs facing additional structural barriers, implementing robust business systems isn’t merely helpful—it’s absolutely essential for survival and growth.

    The entrepreneurial journey typically begins with passion and personal effort. The founder becomes the business, handling everything from production to sales. While this approach may work initially, it creates three dangerous limitations: burnout becomes inevitable, scaling becomes impossible, and the business remains unsellable without the founder’s continuous involvement.

    The statistics are sobering. Nearly 67% of Black-owned businesses in Canada operate as solopreneurs, compared to 41% of non-Black businesses. This independence often stems from necessity rather than choice, as many Black entrepreneurs launch businesses after facing discrimination in traditional employment. However, this solo approach severely limits growth potential.

    Robust business systems provide the antidote to these limitations. By creating standardized processes for everything from customer acquisition to fulfillment, entrepreneurs can effectively step away from daily operations while maintaining quality and consistency. This systematization allows for several critical advantages: the ability to train others quickly, the capacity to scale operations beyond the founder’s direct supervision, and the creation of business value independent of the founder’s continuous involvement.

    For the Black entrepreneur specifically, these systems address an additional crucial need: overcoming bias in the marketplace. When every customer interaction follows a well-designed system, the quality of service speaks for itself, helping neutralize potential discrimination that might otherwise impact business success.

    The franchising focus of this year’s ACBN Legacy Symposium directly addresses this systems-building necessity. Franchising represents the ultimate expression of systematic business operation, with every aspect of the business carefully documented and optimized.

    Building these robust systems requires investment of time and resources upfront, but the returns are transformative. Black entrepreneurs who systematize their operations report 3.2 times higher revenue growth and significantly lower stress levels compared to those operating without formal systems.

    In today’s competitive marketplace, Black entrepreneurs must build businesses that work without them rather than businesses that depend on them. Robust systems make this possible.

    Register for Symposium here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/acbn-legacy-symposium-2025-tickets-1089074062839?aff=acbnblog

    Learn more here: ACBN Legacy Symposium

  • How the ACBN Legacy Symposium Addresses Key Challenges Facing Black Entrepreneurs

    How the ACBN Legacy Symposium Addresses Key Challenges Facing Black Entrepreneurs

    Black entrepreneurs face a unique set of challenges that often make business development more difficult compared to their non-Black counterparts. The ACBN Legacy Symposium has established itself as a crucial response to these specific barriers, offering targeted solutions rather than generic business advice.

    Access to capital remains perhaps the most significant hurdle. According to a 2023 study by the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce, Black entrepreneurs are 2.5 times more likely to be rejected for business loans than white business owners with identical qualifications. The Legacy Symposium directly tackles this issue by connecting entrepreneurs with financial institutions that have committed to equitable lending practices, while also providing workshops on alternative funding strategies including community bonds, angel investors specifically interested in supporting Black businesses, and creative bootstrapping approaches.

    Customer acquisition presents another significant challenge, particularly for businesses targeting markets beyond the Black community. The Symposium addresses this through expert-led sessions on digital marketing tactics specifically designed to overcome unconscious consumer bias, building authentic brand stories that resonate across demographics, and leveraging community endorsements to establish broader market credibility.

    Building an effective team often proves difficult when Black entrepreneurs lack extensive professional networks. The Legacy Symposium’s structured networking sessions create immediate connections with potential employees, partners, and mentors from diverse backgrounds who are aligned with the founders’ vision and values.

    Perhaps most critically, Black entrepreneurs frequently lack access to established business systems and processes that more privileged founders inherit through family businesses or corporate experience. The Symposium’s focus on franchising this year directly addresses this gap by providing complete operational frameworks that can be implemented immediately.

    By gathering hundreds of Black entrepreneurs in one location, the Legacy Symposium also combats the isolation many founders experience. The event creates a powerful community of practice where challenges can be discussed openly and solutions shared without judgment.

    This targeted approach to specific barriers makes the ACBN Legacy Symposium not just another business conference, but an essential catalyst for transforming the landscape for Black entrepreneurship in Canada.

    Register for Symposium here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/acbn-legacy-symposium-2025-tickets-1089074062839?aff=acbnblog

  • ACBN Legacy Symposium 2025: The Urgent Call for Black Entrepreneurs to Build Better Business Systems

    ACBN Legacy Symposium 2025: The Urgent Call for Black Entrepreneurs to Build Better Business Systems

    Mississauga, ON – Black entrepreneurs must operate with strong, scalable systems. Without structured processes, businesses struggle to grow, attract investment, and build lasting wealth. The 2025 ACBN Legacy Symposium is the solution—a one-day intensive event designed to help entrepreneurs move beyond survival mode and create franchise-like systems that generate sustainable success.

    Set to take place on Saturday March 29, 2025, at Sheridan EDGE: Coworking Space & Entrepreneurship Hub in Mississauga Sheridan College, the sixth annual symposium is not just another business conference. It is a strategic intervention—an opportunity for Black entrepreneurs to get the tools, mentorship, and funding connections necessary to build businesses that last.

    “Too many Black businesses struggle because they operate without repeatable systems that allow for growth,” says Ryan Knight, Co-Founder and Executive Director of ACBN. “This symposium is about giving entrepreneurs real solutions—actionable strategies to scale, attract the right customers, and create generational wealth.”

    Why This Event Matters Now More Than Ever

    Entrepreneurs often hear about scaling their business, but without efficient operating systems, strong financial planning, and high-impact marketing strategies, growth remains out of reach. This year’s theme, “Building Wealth Through Franchising,” focuses on how to create systems that make businesses more profitable, investable, and scalable.

    This event is designed for entrepreneurs who are ready to make strategic moves, stop working in chaos, and build structured businesses that generate long-term success.

    What to Expect at the Symposium

    • Keynote Fireside Chat with Brian Scudamore – The founder of 1-800-GOT-JUNK? shares lessons on scaling businesses through repeatable systems.

    • Dr. George Fraser – A leading voice in networking, wealth-building, and Black business empowerment.

    • Workshops and Panels – Experts will cover topics like branding, operational efficiency, and franchise development. Full List Below!

    • Speed Networking Sessions – Strategic connections with investors, business leaders, and like-minded entrepreneurs.

    • Sales Pitch Contest – An opportunity for businesses to showcase their ideas.

    • Vendor Showcase – Explore Black-owned businesses and sponsors offering innovative products and services.

    Who Should Attend?

    • Entrepreneurs who want to scale and structure their business for long-term success.

    • Potential franchise owners looking for proven models to expand their reach.

    • Investors seeking high-growth Black-owned businesses.

    • Business leaders ready to develop efficient operating systems that drive revenue and impact.

    More Than an Event—A Movement for Black Business Success

    For too long, Black entrepreneurs have had to figure things out on their own, without the right mentorship, financial access, or business frameworks. The ACBN Legacy Symposium is the place to break that cycle. This is a call to action—Black businesses must operate with efficiency, build systems that attract investment, and stop relying on inconsistent business models.

    ACBN is leading the charge by providing Black entrepreneurs with access to the training, networking, and funding resources they need to transform their businesses into lasting wealth-building enterprises.

    How to Register

    🔗 Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/acbn-legacy-symposium-2025-tickets-1089074062839?aff=acbnblog

    📍 Location: Sheridan EDGE: Coworking Space & Entrepreneurship Hub 4226 Duke of York Boulevard, Mississauga, ON

    For sponsorship opportunities or media inquiries, please contact ACBN Team info@acbncanada.com

    List of Speakers

    Linkedin Logo MALIESA CADOGAN – Hotperspectives
    Linkedin Logo LIN FERGUSON – Just Like Family Home Care
    Linkedin Logo CARLA LEON – Just Like Family Home Care
    Linkedin Logo Dr GEORGE FRASER – FraserNet
    Linkedin Logo BRIAN SCUDAMORE – 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
    Linkedin Logo RYAN KNIGHT (MC) – Detailing Knights Canada Inc.

     

    Building a Strong NetworkLinkedin Logo Nik-Keisha Moodie
    Collaboration and Community Development Through a Social Engagement Platform (Mkutano)Linkedin Logo Patrick Cole
    Effective Sponsorship Strategies for Business GrowthLinkedin Logo Dr. Vibe
    How to Build Personal CapacityLinkedin Logo Fatima Gould
    Grant Access and Writing TipsLinkedin Logo Karen Rowe
    Mastering your Financials for GrowthLinkedin Logo Lorraine Telesford
    Scaling your BrandLinkedin Logo Christopher Lawrence
    Unlocking the Secrets to Winning Funding OpportunitiesLinkedin Logo Gillian Corrodus
    How to use media and photography to grow your brandLinkedin Logo Ryan Singh
    Building Influence and Creating Impact Through Social MediaLinkedin Logo Sherley Joseph
  • Press Release: ACBN Legacy Symposium 2025 – Building Wealth Through Franchising

    Press Release: ACBN Legacy Symposium 2025 – Building Wealth Through Franchising

    Mississauga, ON – March 29, 2025

    The Afro-Caribbean Business Network (ACBN) is set to host the ACBN Legacy Symposium 2025—a premier event dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools needed to scale their businesses through franchise-like systems. Taking place on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Sheridan EDGE: Coworking Space & Entrepreneurship Hub in Mississauga, this full-day event will feature top industry experts, networking opportunities, and actionable business strategies for sustainable success.

    With the theme “Building Wealth Through Franchising,” the symposium will provide attendees with insights into brand scalability, marketing strategies that convert, operational efficiency, and investment opportunities. Whether you are a business owner looking to scale, an investor seeking high-potential opportunities, or an entrepreneur interested in franchise systems, this event is designed to equip you with the tools to accelerate growth.

    Why Attend?

    • Gain invaluable insights from industry leaders
    • Learn strategies for scaling and sustaining your business
    • Network with like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders
    • Explore franchise opportunities and business expansion models
    • Participate in a sales pitch contest for brand exposure and funding opportunities
    • Visit the vendor marketplace to discover new products and services

    Event Highlights:

    • Fireside Chat with Brian Scudamore – Learn from the founder of 1-800-GOT-JUNK? about brand scalability and success in diverse markets.
    • Expert-Led Workshops – Industry leaders will share insights on creating franchise-like structures, optimizing operating systems, and leveraging digital marketing.
    • Speed Networking Sessions – A unique opportunity to connect with potential business partners, mentors, and investors.
    • Sales Pitch Contest – A platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas with a chance to win monetary prizes and exposure.
    • Vendor Showcase – Explore innovative products and services from Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.

    Keynote and Speaker Sessions:

    The day will begin with opening remarks by Ryan Knight, followed by a keynote fireside chat with Brian Scudamore, the entrepreneur behind one of North America’s most successful franchise brands.

    Other featured speakers include:

    • Carla Leon & Lin Ferguson (Just Like Family) – Discussing successful franchise models and their long-term benefits.
    • Chris-Beth Cowie – Sharing strategies on building a brand that resonates and drives success.
    • Maliesa Cadogan (Hot Perspectives) – Providing insights into developing strong operating systems for scalable businesses.

    Who Should Attend?

    • Entrepreneurs ready to scale their businesses
    • Potential franchise owners exploring new opportunities
    • Investors looking to connect with high-growth businesses
    • Business leaders interested in franchise-like systems and sustainable expansion

    What’s Included?

    • Full-day access to all keynote speeches, workshops, and panel discussions
    • Breakfast and lunch for all attendees
    • 10 ACBN coins ($10 value) to spend at vendor booths
    • Exclusive networking opportunities with industry experts and fellow entrepreneurs

    Registration & Pricing:

    https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/acbn-legacy-symposium-2025-tickets-1089074062839?aff=pressrelease

    • Early Bird Special: $100 (until Friday February 28, 2025)
    • Regular Price: $150

    📍 Location:
    Sheridan EDGE: Coworking Space & Entrepreneurship Hub
    4226 Duke of York Boulevard, Mississauga, ON

    🔗 Register Today: Secure your spot and take your business to the next level. Visit [registration link] to sign up.

    Final Thoughts:

    The ACBN Legacy Symposium 2025 is more than an event—it’s a movement to empower Black entrepreneurs and business owners with the resources needed to create generational wealth. By bringing together business experts, successful franchise owners, and eager entrepreneurs, ACBN is fostering a community where businesses don’t just survive, but thrive.

    For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or vendor booth details, please contact [contact information].

    Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your business into a scalable and sustainable brand. Join us on March 29, 2025, and build the foundation for lasting success.

    #ACBNLegacySymposium2025 #BlackEntrepreneurs #BusinessGrowth #FranchiseSuccess #Networking #WealthThroughFranchising

  • ACBN Canada Named 2023 ByBlacks.com People’s Choice Award Winner in Non Profit Category

    ACBN Canada Named 2023 ByBlacks.com People’s Choice Award Winner in Non Profit Category

    ACBN Canada is honored by ByBlacks.com as Canada’s Best Non-Profit Community Organization, marking a significant milestone in its mission to support Black entrepreneurs.

    The Afro-Caribbean Business Network Foundation Canada (ACBN Canada), a pivotal force in unifying and educating Black entrepreneurs across Southern Ontario, is thrilled to announce its recent accolade as the 2023 ByBlacks.com People’s Choice Award winner in the category of Best Non-Profit Community Organization in Canada. This prestigious award reflects the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to fostering growth, resilience, and success within the Black business community.

    Since its inception in 2017, ACBN Canada has profoundly impacted the landscape of Black entrepreneurship. Through its comprehensive suite of support services, including microloans, marketing assistance, sales support, and investment readiness training, the Foundation has successfully engaged with over 6,000 Black entrepreneurs and provided substantial resources to facilitate both business and personal growth. The creation of the ACBN Creative Works Agency and the launch of a microloan fund, which has helped to disburse over 2 million dollars, are testaments to the organization’s innovative approaches to overcoming the barriers Black business owners face.

    Ryan Knight, Executive Director of ACBN Canada, expressed his gratitude for the award: “Being recognized by the ByBlacks.com People’s Choice Awards is a profound honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, the entrepreneurs we work with, and our community. This award is not just for ACBN but for every Black entrepreneur we’ve had the privilege to support. It signifies a step forward in our collective journey towards building generational wealth and reinforcing the importance of Black-led businesses in Canada’s economic landscape.”

    The ACBN Foundation’s significant contributions, including hosting the impactful National Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Conference and providing nearly $30,000 in free mental health counseling support, showcase its comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of Black entrepreneurs. The 5th Annual Legacy Symposium, themed “Building Generational Wealth Together,” further underscores the Foundation’s commitment to creating a sustainable and profitable future for Black businesses.

    About Afro-Caribbean Business Network Foundation Canada
    Founded in 2017, ACBN endeavors to unite and educate Black entrepreneurs in Toronto, Peel, and surrounding areas. As part of the National Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem, ACBN Canada is dedicated to creating solutions that eliminate barriers for Black entrepreneurs through strategic planning, capacity building, and comprehensive support services. For more information, please visit ACBN Canada’s website.

    Ryan Knight and Roger Dundas from ByBlacks.com

    Congratulations to all the ByBlacks.com winners!

    Actor: Antonette Rudder

    Author: Zalika Reid-Benta

    Bakery: Fruitlicious Cakes

    Beauty Salon: The O Spot Skincare Clinic

    Blogger: Big Belly Mel

    Book: Malaika, Carnival Queen

    Clothing Brand: Premier Jour Lingerie and Swimwear

    Consumer Packaged Goods: Nerpy’s Inc.

    Event Planner: Debonair Corporate Events

    Film Director: Troy Crossfield

    Fitness: Andre Rose

    Lawyer: Hudson Law

    Marketing: NA Management

    Non-Profit Community Services: Afro Caribbean Business Network (ACBN)

    Poet: Dwayne Morgan

    Singer: Powerhouse Fellowship Soul Choir featuring Shawn Cotterell

    Therapist: Francis Psychotherapy

    Travel Service: Ellusive & Co Inc.

    Visual Artist: HAUI

  • Fifth Annual ACBN Legacy Symposium Designed to Build Generational Wealth for Black Businesses!

    Fifth Annual ACBN Legacy Symposium Designed to Build Generational Wealth for Black Businesses!

    Black business owners are slated to attend the ACBN Legacy Symposium sponsored by Alterna Savings on Saturday March 2nd at Sheridan College in Mississauga. More than 100 Black community leaders, entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals from across Ontario are slated to attend the fifth annual Legacy Symposium.

    Empowering the Black Business Community through Inter-generational Collaboration and Wealth Building Strategies

    The Afro-Caribbean Business Network Foundation Canada (ACBN) is excited to announce the 5th Edition of the ACBN Legacy Symposium, themed ‘Building Generational Wealth Together’. This pivotal event aims to foster inter-generational partnerships, share invaluable skills and knowledge, and promote sustainable growth within the Black business landscape. Scheduled to take place in Mississauga, the ACBN Legacy Symposium is expected to draw a diverse group of entrepreneurs and business leaders committed to creating a lasting legacy using their business as a wealth building tool.

    This year’s event builds on the success of previous symposia, which have consistently attracted 100 to 150 participants eager to engage in meaningful conversations and workshops aimed at capacity building and strategic wealth creation. The symposium will feature interactive sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, all focused on equipping participants with the tools necessary for succession planning and the implementation of effective business strategies.

    Ryan Knight, Executive Director of ACBN, emphasizes the importance of the event: “The ACBN Legacy Symposium is more than just a gathering; it’s a movement towards creating a sustainable and prosperous future for Black entrepreneurs. By investing in inter-generational partnerships, we’re not only building wealth but also ensuring that our legacy of innovation, resilience, and community support endures for generations to come.”

    Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, access exclusive networking opportunities, learn strategies for building a sustainable business, and enhance their operations during virtual and in-person conference sessions. Keynote speakers include Dr. George C. Fraser, CEO and Founder of FraserNet, Inc., and President of FraserNation, LLC,, Peter Trevor Wilson, Chris-Beth Cowie and Sherley Joseph.

    “ACBN has worked tirelessly to support and champion Black entrepreneurs in our region and EDGE has been a proud long-time collaborator,” says Renee Devereaux, Director, Entrepreneurship and Changemaking at Sheridan EDGE. “We’re thrilled to be part of this annual symposium as business leaders gather to explore investment readiness and amplify success.”

    About ACBN

    Founded in 2017, the ACBN works to unify and educate Black entrepreneurs in its network of more than 6000 businesses in Toronto, Peel and surrounding areas. The ACBN has cultivated a community for Black business owners where they can cross-promote their products and services to build their ventures and participate in relevant business and personal growth workshops. ACBN supports Black Founders with strategic planning to assist with capacity building with resources such as microloans, marketing and sales support as well as investment readiness training. ACBN has conducted extensive research in southern Ontario to understand the current landscape of Black Entrepreneurs and the barriers they face. As part of the National Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem, ACBN works with business support partners to create solutions to eliminate barriers Black entrepreneurs face.

    About Sheridan College

    Founded in 1967, Sheridan has grown from a local college of 400 students to one of Ontario’s leading post-secondary institutions, educating approximately 23,000 full-time and 20,000 continuing and part-time studies students every year. Its three diverse campus communities in Brampton, Mississauga and Oakville are a short commute to downtown Toronto. As a trailblazer in unique arts, technology and health care programs, Sheridan has always been on the leading edge of innovation ensuring students learn job-ready, practical skills and develop the confidence, empathy and problem-solving savvy that allows them to push boundaries in an ever-changing world. Sheridan’s 210,000 alumni play a critical role in shaping the future of our society in the fields of arts, business, community service, health, technology, and the skilled trades. In January 2023, Sheridan was ranked number one on Forbes’ list of Canada’s Best Employers.

  • Securing Funding for Community Projects: Crafting Effective Grant Proposals

    Securing Funding for Community Projects: Crafting Effective Grant Proposals

    Securing funding for community projects can be a challenging endeavor, but with the right approach, crafting effective grant proposals can greatly increase the chances of success. A well-crafted grant proposal is a crucial tool in not only attracting the attention of potential funding sources, but also conveying the importance and potential impact of the community project. To create a professional grant proposal, it is important to first thoroughly research and understand the objectives and requirements of the funding organization. This will ensure that the proposal is tailor-made to meet their specific criteria and align with their goals.

    Crafting an effective grant proposal also involves clearly articulating the community project’s objectives, outcomes, and anticipated impact. It is essential to provide a detailed plan of action, including a timeline and budget, to give the funder confidence in the project’s feasibility and sustainability. Additionally, including measurable indicators and evaluation methods will demonstrate the commitment to accountability and success.

    A professional grant proposal should also highlight the community’s capacity and expertise in executing the project. This can be achieved through showcasing relevant past experience, partnerships, and the involvement of key stakeholders. Demonstrating a strong and diverse support network will instill confidence in the funder that the project has the necessary resources to succeed.

    Furthermore, it is important to clearly communicate the community’s needs and why funding for this project is essential. Providing evidence of the project’s potential long-term benefits and its alignment with the funder’s priorities will help make a compelling case for support.

    In conclusion, securing funding for community projects requires the crafting of effective grant proposals. By thoroughly researching the funding organization, clearly articulating the project’s objectives and outcomes, highlighting community capacity, and making a compelling case for support, the chances of securing funding can be greatly increased. A well-crafted grant proposal is an essential tool in not only attracting funding but also in showcasing the potential impact and importance of community projects.

    Foundation for Black Communities Big Grant: Supporting Black Community Projects with $8.9 Million in Funding

    Learn more at their website: https://www.forblackcommunities.org/bridge-and-build-fund/

    Or watch our walkthough of the grant here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3q64NEaXpU

    The Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC) has recently announced its Big Grant initiative, aimed at supporting and empowering Black community projects through a substantial funding of $8.9 million. This significant investment seeks to address the systemic inequalities and challenges faced by Black communities across the country. By providing this substantial financial support, FFBC aims to foster positive change and create a more equitable society.

    The Big Grant program is designed to fund a wide range of initiatives and projects that directly benefit the Black community. From education and youth programs to economic development and healthcare initiatives, FFBC is committed to supporting projects that uplift and empower Black individuals and families. The funding provided will ensure that these projects have the necessary resources to make a lasting impact and drive change at the grassroots level.

    The $8.9 million grant is a testament to FFBC’s dedication to addressing the unique needs and aspirations of Black communities. By offering this level of funding, FFBC aims to amplify the voices and initiatives of Black-led organizations and individuals who have historically faced disproportionate barriers to success and resources.

    The Foundation for Black Communities believes that investing in the Black community is an investment in the future of our nation. By supporting innovative and impactful projects, FFBC aims to create a more inclusive and prosperous society for all. The Big Grant initiative serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the Black community, providing the necessary means to effect positive change on a larger scale. With this substantial funding, FFBC believes that together, we can build a more just, equitable, and thriving society for generations to come.