Utah’s Black Entrepreneurs Celebrate Success and Economic Empowerment at Mardi Gras in the Mountains

A Celebration of Black Excellence

February 14, 2024 – The Utah Black Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual Mardi Gras in the Mountains celebration, a vibrant event showcasing and supporting black-owned businesses in the region. Founded by Louisiana native and Chamber president Sidni Shorter, the gathering aimed to promote economic empowerment and highlight the contributions of black entrepreneurs to Utah’s local economy.

Overcoming Challenges, Thriving Together

Despite facing higher startup costs and loan denial rates compared to their non-black counterparts, black entrepreneurs in Utah are thriving with the help of the Chamber’s resources and support. The Mardi Gras in the Mountains celebration provided a platform for these businesses to connect, network, and share their stories of success.

The Black Excellence Awards: Recognizing Outstanding Achievements

A highlight of the event was the Black Excellence Awards, where businesses in various sectors were recognized by their peers. The awards celebrated the resilience, creativity, and determination of black entrepreneurs who are making a significant impact on Utah’s economic ecosystem.

Nikki Walker, the Chamber’s public relations committee director, emphasized the importance of supporting and recognizing black-owned businesses not only during Black History Month but throughout the year. “Their success stories are an inspiration to us all,” she said, “and it’s essential that we continue to foster an environment where they can grow and prosper.”

As the evening came to a close, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of unity, pride, and optimism for the future of Utah’s black-owned businesses. The Mardi Gras in the Mountains celebration served as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of these entrepreneurs and their vital role in shaping the state’s economic landscape.

Key takeaways:

• The Utah Black Chamber of Commerce held its second annual Mardi Gras in the Mountains celebration to recognize and promote black-owned businesses in the state.
• Despite facing challenges, black entrepreneurs in Utah are thriving with the help of the Chamber’s resources and support.
• The Black Excellence Awards recognized outstanding achievements in various sectors.

By coming together to celebrate their successes, black entrepreneurs in Utah demonstrated their commitment to economic empowerment and their determination to make a lasting impact on the local economy. With continued support from the Chamber and the wider community, their achievements will undoubtedly shape the future of business in Utah.