"Finding supportive networks of like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of being a Black business owner can be transformative."
On February 10th, the spirit of Black entrepreneurship was alive and thriving in Raleigh, North Carolina. The SmallBiz Mid-Day Soiree, hosted at The Wright Village by Ecosystem Builder-In-Residence (EBIR) Mel Wright and the BWSF-Raleigh team, featured a lineup of inspiring speakers and networking opportunities, designed to uplift Black entrepreneurship in Raleigh.
The Soiree began with a catered brunch that set the stage for meaningful connections to be forged over food. As guests mingled and exchanged stories, it was clear that the gathering was more than just a networking event—it was a community coming together to uplift and support one another.
A panel discussion moderated by BWSF-Raleigh council member, Mia Lamotte, brought together some exceptional Black business leaders to share their wisdom and experiences.
The Black Wall Street Forward Raleigh Council introduced the initiative, their strategic vision, and the Small Business Success Academy Pilot.
Mia, who is the founder of Mia Lamotte Image Consulting, shared strategies for building a strong online presence and standing out in a crowded market. Adrian Stephenson, the founder of AnyDay Heating and Cooling, shared insights from his journey of building a successful HVAC company from the ground up. Brian Burnett, the tailor behind Glenwood South Tailor, pulled from decades of experience in the fashion industry to share the importance of attention to detail.
Keynote Speaker Anthara Wyatt walked guests through her journey of navigating the complexities of small business growth and accessing resources and capital. From government grants to community initiatives, she highlighted the myriad of resources available to those willing to seek them out and seize the opportunities.
Events like the SmallBiz Mid-Day Soiree foster a sense of belonging and community among Black entrepreneurs. Finding supportive networks of like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of being a Black business owner can be transformative. Seeing individuals who look like you, who have walked similar paths and faced similar challenges, thriving in their respective fields can be a powerful source of inspiration. By continuing to amplify the voices of Black entrepreneurs in spaces like these, we can ensure that the seeds planted here are nurtured and grow as we build toward a vision of thriving, equitably invested, and self-determined Black-centric entrepreneurial communities.
The Black Wall Street Forward initiative aims to reshape narratives, engage community leaders and entrepreneurs, and foster sustainable, equitably invested, Black-centric entrepreneurial communities.
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