August’s Black Business month shines a spotlight on the innovation and entrepreneurship that empowers the Black community to thrive and build generational wealth. The concept of Black Business Month derives from two Black entrepreneurs, engineer Frederick E. Jordan and John William Templeton, president and executive editor of eAccess Corp, who wanted to help others in the community achieve success in entrepreneurship.

According to the U.S. small business administration, as of 2018, there are over 3 million Black-owned businesses that generate total sales of over $200 billion.

BPN’s robust Black Business month programming included everything from special networking opportunities to an informative masterclass on securing a federal contract. The month kicked off with CEO Night Out: Miami Dolphins v. Atlanta Falcons for a special opportunity to enjoy football while making connections.

The Miami chapter’s networking mixer held at Office Logic on August 17th was a great opportunity to connect across generations, industries, and business sectors. BPN teamed up with community partners to make a greater impact, including the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust, the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce, the Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce, the National Sales of Network of South Florida, the Greater Miami Conventions Visitors Bureau, and the Miami-Dade Black Advisory Board.

Panelist speakers from the varying organizations provided knowledge to further provide opportunities for business-owners to thrive and for those looking to go into business.

Following the Black Business Month mixer, BPN continued with programming and content with the Connect & Co-work Nonprofit Edition on the 22nd at Co-Space to further elevate connections. The Masterclass: Securing a Federal Contract on the 29th guided business owners to gain access to all contracts and resources available to them.

While Black business month comes to a close soon, BPN aims to provide a platform of community and support for Black business-owners and professionals year-round.