Local fast-food chain Ezell’s Famous Chicken is hosting its third annual Raising Up Black Businesses Initiative Conference on Aug. 17.

Held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the University of Washington’s Seattle campus, the conference looks to celebrate National Black Business Month and aims to educate and elevate Black, Washington-based business owners, according to a release from the business.

The event is a collaboration between co-founders Lewis and Darnell Rudd, their sister Faye Stephens, and food-delivery service Doordash.

The RUBB initiative, which started in 2021, will this year provide grants to 20 recipients with the purpose of financially empowering Black-owned businesses. The conference will also include networking opportunities, educational content, connection sessions, and more.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Ignite & Inspire: Building the Future of Black-Owned Businesses.” Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and PMT Solutions and Tabor100 President and CEO Ollie Garrett will host a “fireside chat” at the conference.

According to Lewis Rudd, the primary goals of the conference are, as outlined in the release:

• Productive networking opportunities to create strong, supportive relationships among Black entrepreneurs.
• Providing education and resources that address specific challenges faced by Black-owned businesses.
• Highlighting success stories to inspire attendees and provide practical insights for business growth.
• Encouraging collaboration and mentorship to build a robust community of business leaders who support each other’s success.

“Black business owners face many challenges, which have been amplified in the past four years throughout the pandemic and beyond,” Rudd said in the release. “There is a growing understanding that barriers to advancement have been systemic in our communities, but with the right resources, tools, and information, they can succeed — and we are committed to being part of that solution.”

Tickets for the event cost $50. Learn more here.