Afro Caribbean Business Network

Tag: events

  • 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

  • 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.