Afro Caribbean Business Network

Tag: black empowerment

What Black Entrepreneurs in Canada Told the Government: Key Insights from BEP Consultations
In September 2020, the Government of Canada announced the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) designed to support Black entrepreneurs in their recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and foster sustainable future growth. To ensure the program effectively addressed the unique needs of Black entrepreneurs across Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) conducted comprehensive consultations. This post summarizes the key insights gathered during these discussions, highlighting priorities and concerns raised by Black entrepreneurs, business organizations, academics, and other stakeholders.
The consultations took place virtually over seven weeks, including 11 sessions with 125 participants from 64 different organizations, complemented by phone calls and written submissions. The feedback directly shaped the design and implementation of the BEP.
Key Themes from Black Entrepreneur Consultations
Holistic Support for Black Entrepreneurs
Participants emphasized that the type of support offered is critical to the success of Black entrepreneurs. Training and support services emerged as the most frequently requested needs, including mentoring, coaching, and capacity building. Black entrepreneurs highlighted the importance of wrap-around supports to guide them through various business development stages. These supports should be available to both new and established Black entrepreneurs, fostering a knowledge-based ecosystem. While funding was deemed extremely important, participants consistently noted that it should complement other forms of support rather than being the sole focus.
Persistent Barriers Facing Black Entrepreneurs
A significant portion of discussions focused on the ongoing barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs. Access to capital was identified as the most critical issue, with participants citing systemic bias and racism within the banking system as contributing factors. Black entrepreneurs also face challenges in accessing data, knowledge, and business education. Furthermore, organizations that directly support Black entrepreneurs often operate with limited resources.
A Program By and For Black Entrepreneurs
There was strong consensus that the BEP should be run by the Black Canadian community for Black entrepreneurs. While most agreed on the importance of this principle, some also highlighted the need to prioritize expertise alongside cultural background. Key elements for organizations leading the program included demonstrating alignment with program objectives, the ability to tailor support for Black entrepreneurs, transparency, and a history of positive engagement with the Black community.
Building on Existing Knowledge and Avoiding Duplication
Black entrepreneurs and organizations agreed that the program should learn from past and existing initiatives to identify what works and prevent unnecessary duplication of efforts. Streamlining program delivery through connections between relevant organizations supporting Black entrepreneurs was also suggested.
Flexibility and Responsiveness to Diverse Needs
The program must be flexible to address the diverse needs of Black entrepreneurs, considering varying stages of business development, industry sectors, social realities, and financial requirements. The administration of the program should also be adaptable and avoid overly restrictive definitions that might limit participation of Black entrepreneurs.
Prioritizing a Decentralized and Local Approach
Almost all Black entrepreneurs and participants favored a decentralized and local approach to program delivery, with some also acknowledging the importance of addressing regional differences to ensure Black entrepreneurs across Canada can access support.
Insights into Specific Program Components for Black Entrepreneurs
Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund
The size and type of funding were key concerns for Black entrepreneurs. A major suggestion was to include grants (either standalone or tied to program completion) or partially forgivable loans. Black entrepreneurs advocated for loan amounts to be determined by individual business needs, with many suggesting that the minimum loan amount should be lower than the announced $25,000, with $5,000 being a frequently mentioned figure.
Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub
Discussions around the Knowledge Hub emphasized the importance of trust and transparency in data collection about Black entrepreneurs, which participants believed should be decentralized and potentially gathered from organizations, banks, municipalities, and chambers of commerce. The objectives of the hub should include creating and utilizing collected knowledge, driving policy change, supporting Black entrepreneurs, and integrating with education and training efforts. Participants identified significant knowledge gaps regarding barriers to access, opportunities for success, and Canadian consumption habits, highlighting the need for data to provide better context for Black entrepreneurs’ needs and long-term success.
Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Fund
Defining a “Black-led organization” was a key discussion point. Opinions varied, with the majority favoring a definition requiring at least two-thirds ownership by Black individuals, while a smaller group suggested a majority ownership (at least 50% +1). Participants also strongly emphasized the importance of addressing intersectionality within the Black entrepreneur community, ensuring inclusivity for all minorities within the minority, with a specific focus on gender, youth, linguistic minorities, and new Canadians.
Conclusion
The extensive consultations undertaken by ISED provide valuable insights into the needs and priorities of Black entrepreneurs in Canada. The feedback received underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach that combines financial support with tailored training, mentorship, and capacity-building initiatives for Black entrepreneurs. The emphasis on a community-led program, flexibility, and a focus on addressing systemic barriers highlights the unique challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs. The specific feedback on the Loan Fund, Knowledge Hub, and Ecosystem Fund will be crucial in shaping the effective implementation of the Black Entrepreneurship Program to support Black entrepreneurs across Canada.
March 24, 2025
Customer Acquisition Systems That Work for Black-Owned Businesses
How Black Entrepreneurs Can Build Stronger Customer Acquisition Systems
For many Black entrepreneurs, attracting and retaining customers is one of the biggest challenges in building a sustainable business. While product development and operations often get attention, customer acquisition strategies remain underdeveloped. Without a structured approach, even well-managed businesses struggle to grow.
The Challenge: Higher Customer Acquisition Costs
Black-owned businesses face 22% higher customer acquisition costs than their non-Black counterparts, according to the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce. Several factors contribute to this:
- Limited access to established referral networks
- Higher scrutiny from potential customers
- Marketing efforts that depend too much on the founder’s direct involvement
To overcome these barriers, Black entrepreneurs must develop systematic customer acquisition strategies that operate independently of their availability.
Four Key Components of a Strong Customer Acquisition System
Successful Black entrepreneurs implement four essential systems to attract, convert, and retain customers.
1. Lead Generation: Move Beyond Passive Marketing
Many businesses rely on sporadic social media posts, but this isn’t enough. A strong lead generation system includes:
- Targeted digital marketing tailored to the ideal customer.
- Referral programs that reward customers for word-of-mouth marketing.
- Automated prospecting strategies that continuously attract new leads.
2. Prospect Nurturing: Build Trust Over Time
Many Black-owned businesses face a credibility gap that makes potential customers hesitate. A structured prospect nurturing system helps bridge this gap by:
- Using automated email or text sequences to engage potential customers.
- Providing valuable content that demonstrates expertise and builds trust.
- Offering low-risk engagement opportunities like free resources, webinars, or trials.
3. Conversion: Standardize the Sales Process
Many founders handle sales informally, leading to inconsistent results. To improve conversion rates, businesses need:
- A scripted sales framework to ensure clear, persuasive communication.
- Standardized proposal templates that simplify the decision-making process.
- Follow-up sequences that keep prospects engaged until they are ready to buy.
4. Retention: Turn Customers Into Advocates
Relying solely on new customer acquisition is costly and unsustainable. A customer retention system keeps clients engaged and drives repeat business. Effective strategies include:
- Regular communication that provides ongoing value beyond the initial sale.
- Exclusive offers and loyalty programs to keep customers returning.
- Structured referral programs that turn satisfied customers into marketing partners.
Learn Proven Customer Acquisition Strategies at the ACBN Legacy Symposium
At the ACBN Legacy Symposium 2025, Black entrepreneurs will gain access to tested customer acquisition frameworks that have delivered results across multiple industries.
By moving beyond sporadic marketing and founder-driven sales, business owners can create predictable revenue streams and long-term success in competitive markets.
🔗 Register now to learn from industry experts: [Event Registration Link]
ACBN Legacy Symposium
March 19, 2025
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
March 13, 2025
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
March 12, 2025
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
March 30, 2024
Black Empowerment Manifesto Press Release
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
AFRO CARIBBEAN BUSINESS NETWORK CANADA FOUNDATION (ACBN): PRESENTS:
A CANADIAN BLACK EMPOWERMENT MANIFESTO (CBEM) VERSION 2.0. VOLUME 001.
TORONTO, April 22, 2021: ACBN Releases its commissioned work ─A Canadian Black Empowerment Manifesto (CBEM) Version 2.0. Volume 001. It is the brainchild of Errol A. Gibbs, principal researcher, and writer. The CBEM is a twenty-first-century “blueprint” ─a penetrating analysis of some of the causes and effects of Black “disempowerment.” Conversely, offering 15 Innovative Strategies for Black empowerment for the next 50 years (2021 – 2071).
Ryan O’Neil Knight, president of the Afro-Caribbean Business Network Canada Foundation (ACBN), and Vice President, Chris Beth-Cowie, examined the 15 Innovative Strategies proposed in the original version of the manifesto (70 pages), published in July 2020. They determined that with further study, the work could surface the vast potential of the “brain trust” that examined the historical period (1970 – 2020) ─the past 50 years. Similarly, the expanded study would strengthen the proposal to gain broad acceptance in public and private sectors as a viable guide to attain and sustain Black empowerment.
Version 2.0. of the Manifesto proposes a clear definition of what constitutes a Black Empowerment Vision Criteria (BEVC), defined as foundational upon six criteria (Holistic, Permanent, Macro-level, Job Creation, Wealth Creation, and Digital and Physical Infrastructure). As a composite, they establish new benchmarks for Black empowerment initiatives in the future. Furthermore, these six criteria will enable executive leaders (government, corporate, and community) to measure the practical benefits of their multi-million-dollar expenditures in Black businesses and community programs, each criterion with quantifiable measures.
Gibbs’ CBEM brain trust also proposes creating a Black History Month Score Card (BHMSC) to present analytics each February of systematic progress. To achieve these pioneering objectives, ACBN/Gibbs makes a compelling call in their revolutionary (240 pages) “blueprint” for new integrated infrastructures (strategic, tactical, and operational), unlike the ineffective “organizational silo” models of the past that have suffocated the growth of the Black community.
This new approach has three foundational elements: (1) The CBEM’s overall strategic objectives. (2) A Canadian Black Empowerment Think Tank (CBETT) tactical objectives facilitated by an interdisciplinary Advisory Council, and (3) a Portfolio Management Office (PMO), operational objective powered by a team of Project and Business Management Analysts (PBMA). This new integrated approach will foster effectiveness and corporate style productivity and growth to support ─for-profit, not-for-profit, and public-private enterprises.
ACBN is a vanguard community that believes the Black community is at the right intersection in Black history to help elevate the Canadian society to rise beyond the historical impediments of race, colour, cultural, social, and economic injustices, and the Black versus White racial divide. The extensive body of work also makes a compelling call for a change in mindset ―particularly an “industrial mindset,” more importantly, to embrace CHANGE, which is indispensable as the world enters the transformational Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Industry 4.0. A reading of the CBEM will inform stakeholders interested in pioneering unique collaboration among the Black community, governmental, public, and private sectors.
We look forward to your engagement and inspiring dialogue regarding this “new” paradigm of Black empowerment.
Click here to to access and download the manifesto to read.
For an Immediate Response.
CONTACT:
Ryan O’Neil Knight, President
Afro Caribbean Business Network Canada Foundation (ACBN)
Tel: 647.225.3309
Email: ryan.knight@acbncanada.com
Website: acbncanada.com
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April 22, 2021