4th annual Black Business Week underway in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis got a head start on August’s National Black Business Month, kicking off its fourth annual Black Business Week Monday.

City leaders said the week-long observance focuses on the ongoing effort to support, highlight, educate and empower local Black entrepreneurs and business owners. 

“Uplifting and connecting Black business owners and entrepreneurs with programs, funding, resources and technical support at the city and beyond is what Black Business Week is all about,” said Minneapolis City Council Member Andrea Jenkins in a video message.

Mayor Jacob Frey and City Council President Elliot Payne appeared alongside Jenkins in the city’s video, both echoing Jenkins.

“As someone who ran my own business, I’ve seen firsthand the barriers Black entrepreneurs face,” said Payne. ” … It’s not enough for the city to just say, ‘We support Black businesses,’ without meaningful support and resources.”

According to the city, the initiative will hold its first gathering at the Minneapolis Events Center Monday night, featuring a panel discussion on access to capital, and the opportunity to shop and network with local Black vendors.

“Minneapolis Black-owned businesses are a cornerstone of our community — creating jobs, driving innovation and fostering a vibrant culture,” Frey said, adding, “Supporting these enterprises leads to an increased financial empowerment, not just within our local Black community, but across our entire city.”

Plans for the week also include career and networking events, more panel discussions and a resource fair, among others.  

For more information about Black Business Week events and how to register and attend, visit the city’s website.