B1Thrive ThrivCloud

🚀 **Celebrating Community & Entrepreneurship!** 🌟 This past weekend marked a monumental occasion with the **10th Annual Alaska Black Business Expo**! 🎉 Thousands came together in Anchorage, showcasing the strength and creativity of our Black entrepreneurs. From engaging panel discussions to a vibrant fashion show featuring Alaskan designers alongside FUBU and COOGI, the event was a testament to the power of community. Key figures, including *Talib Kweli* and *FUBU's* co-founders, inspired attendees by sharing insights on redefining generational wealth and fostering entrepreneurship. *Jasmin Smith*, the visionary behind the expo, emphasized the importance of empowering our community through education and resources. Each year, this event brings us closer to realizing our dreams and celebrating the incredible contributions of Black culture in Alaska. A huge thank you to all partners and participants who made this event possible! 🙏 Let’s continue to uplift each other and build a legacy of success! 👉 Learn more about this inspiring event [here]([https://lnkd.in/gk7P2dRx)). #BlackBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Community #AlaskaExpo #GenerationalWealth #SupportBlackBusiness

📢 Reflecting on the 60th Anniversary of Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama 🇺🇸 This past Sunday, thousands gathered to commemorate the historic march that catalyzed the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Led by influential figures, including U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, attendees echoed the call for renewed commitment to civil rights amid rising concerns over recent voting restrictions. 🔑 Key Takeaways from the Commemoration: - The legacy of Bloody Sunday remains a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equal voting rights in America. - Attendees highlighted alarming trends reminiscent of the past, stressing the importance of vigilance and action against contemporary threats to democracy and inclusivity. - Personal stories from original marchers, like Charles Mauldin and Dr. Verdell Lett Dawson, resonated with attendees, emphasizing determination and the spirit of resilience in the fight for justice. As we honor this significant anniversary, let's remember the sacrifices made and continue to advocate for the rights that define democracy for all. Together, we can ensure that history does not repeat itself. #BloodySunday #VotingRights #CivilRights #Selma #EqualityForAll #CivilDiscourse #Democracy #SocialJustice

🚀 **Empowering Our Community: Spend Where You're Respected!** 🖤 As many of us seek to support diversity and equity, it’s crucial to remember that our wallets hold power! The National NAACP recently called on Black consumers to **"spend your money where you're respected."** This message is especially timely as some major retailers are rolling back their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. 💪🏽 **Here’s how YOU can make an impact**: 1. **Choose Black-Owned Businesses**: Make a conscious effort to support local Black-owned businesses. Whether it's dining out, shopping, or services—your choice can drive change. 2. **Participate in Initiatives**: Join events like the **Black Business Bus Tour in Tampa**, where you can explore multiple Black-owned businesses while fostering community support. 3. **Plan Your Purchases**: Designate days or weeks in your calendar to spend exclusively at Black-owned businesses. Every dollar spent amplifies our collective strength. 🔍 **Need resources?** Check out directories like **SupportBlackOwned** or **Blk+Grn** to discover and support Black entrepreneurs in your area. Let’s take a stand and shift the narrative—our economic power can foster change and resilience. 🌟 #BlackOwnedBusiness #SupportLocal #DiversityEquityInclusion #CommunityPower #SpendWithPurpose

🌟 Celebrating Black History 🌟 What a fantastic morning at the 32nd annual African-American History Breakfast! This year, we introduced something special: a skit titled “Voices from the Past,” masterfully written and performed by our community members. ✨ **Key Highlights:** - **Theme:** “African-Americans and Progressive Labor” - **Performers:** Dr. Catrelia Hunter as the grandmother, along with a talented cast including Dr. Ethel Bamberg-Revis, Keith Hart, and more. Their passionate performances brought to life the extraordinary contributions of African-Americans like Lewis Latimer and Mary McLeod Bethune. - **Vision:** Dr. Bamberg-Revis wanted to shake things up this year and give attendees a different experience compared to the traditional speaker format. 🔍 Inspired by the theme and a moment of reflection, she wrote the skit just two weeks prior—what an incredible feat! A special thank you to all sponsors, the Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, and everyone who helped make this event a success. Let’s continue to learn from our past and celebrate our progress! 🙏🏽 #BlackHistoryMonth #CommunityEvents #VoicesFromThePast #Leadership #Innovation🌍

🌟 **Attention Entrepreneurs!** 🌟 March is here, and with it comes a fantastic opportunity to secure funding for your business! As we transition into spring, now is the perfect time to focus on growth and innovation. 🚀 **Here are 5 SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS you can apply for this March:** 1. **Grants for Black-Owned Businesses**: Receive up to $2,000 to support your growth and operational needs. Learn more [here](https://lnkd.in/gHd_b4b7). 2. **Grants for Small Businesses**: Apply for $5,000 to increase your community impact. More details [here](https://lnkd.in/gzxbjpRv). 3. **Veterans & Military Entrepreneurs Grant**: Grants and in-kind support for startups led by veterans. Check it out [here](https://lnkd.in/gt99Wmk7). 4. **Space Industry Start-ups**: Grants of $1,000 are available to support early-stage companies. Find out more [here](https://lnkd.in/gkmaZCDj). 5. **Grants for Female Entrepreneurs**: Up to $25,000 available for business development with a social impact focus. Learn more [here](https://lnkd.in/giDG6bUq). 💡 **Don’t miss your chance!** To explore more grant opportunities, visit [GrantWatch.com](https://www.grantwatch.com) and kickstart your journey toward securing the funding you need. Together, let’s drive innovation and entrepreneurial success! 💪 #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Grants #Funding #BlackOwned #WomenInBusiness #VeteranSupport #Innovation

🌟 Exciting news for entrepreneurs and the community! 🌟 Tonight, Bacardi is hosting its **third annual Bacardi Black-Owned Vendor Market** at their global headquarters in Pembroke, featuring a record **57 entrepreneurs**—that's nearly double the vendors from last year! This family-friendly event celebrates Black History Month and provides a fantastic platform for vendors to showcase their businesses and connect with new customers. 🎉 🎶 Expect live entertainment, including performances from United Dance Productions and music by DJ Chubb, making it a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for all attendees. 💡 **New this year:** A special masterclass titled “Bacardi Masterclass: The Power Hour – Fuel Your Business in 15”, focused on providing vendors with critical insights on branding and business development, featuring industry experts. Danielle Paynter, Bacardi’s Director of Corporate Affairs, emphasizes, “This event is about fostering inclusivity and opportunities for underrepresented groups—year-round, not just in February.” Join us from **4:30 PM to 7:30 PM** to shop, support local businesses, and enjoy a memorable evening! #Bacardi #BlackOwnedBusiness #CommunitySupport #Inclusivity #Entrepreneurship #Bermuda #BlackHistoryMonth 🔗 [More details here] (link to event page)

🌟 Exciting News in the World of Innovation and Collaboration! 🌟 Today, I'm thrilled to announce that I will be speaking at the upcoming **Innovation Summit 2023**! 🎤✨ Join us on **March 15th**, where I'll share insights on leveraging innovative technologies and fostering collaborative environments to boost business success. Whether you're a startup enthusiast, a seasoned entrepreneur, or simply passionate about innovation, this is an event you won't want to miss! 🌍 **Key Takeaways:** 1. Latest trends in technology and innovation 💡 2. Strategies for effective collaboration across diverse teams 🤝 3. Real-world examples that illustrate the power of innovation in driving growth 🚀 📅 **Event Details:** - **Date:** March 15, 2023 - **Location:** Downtown Convention Center - **Tickets:** [Register here](#) I'm looking forward to connecting with fellow innovators and sharing experiences that can shape the future of our industries. Let's inspire each other! 🌟 #InnovationSummit2023 #Collaboration #Innovation #Technology #BusinessGrowth #Networking Feel free to share this post to spread the word!

🚀 Exciting News for Small Businesses in Summit County! 🌍 This month marks the official launch of the **Black Chamber of Commerce - Summit County (BCCSC)**, aimed at fostering economic growth for Black-owned businesses. Led by Robert E. DeJournett and Misty E. Beasley, this initiative addresses the specific challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs and seeks to **close the racial wealth gap**. Key Objectives: - **Resource Support & Advocacy:** Tailored education and training for Black business owners. - **Connection Building:** Creating networks between local businesses and larger corporations for strategic partnerships. - **Economic Impact Study:** Assessing the state of Black-owned businesses and ensuring equitable resource distribution. The recent Elevate Greater Akron report highlights that Black residents, comprising nearly one-third of Akron's population, often face exclusion from economic opportunities. Through the BCCSC, there's a commitment to increase visibility, innovation, and inclusivity within the entrepreneurial community. As they seek **100 founding donors**, your contribution could help shape a thriving future for Black businesses in Summit County and beyond. 💪🏽 Let’s champion this crucial cause and empower all entrepreneurs to succeed! 📰 Read more about this initiative [here](https://lnkd.in/gjHxRwgj). #BlackChamber #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Inclusion #EconomicEmpowerment #SupportLocal #SummitCounty #BCCSC

🌟 **Exciting News in Entrepreneurship!** 🌟 I’m thrilled to share that Derek Lewis, a trailblazing Black entrepreneur and social advocate, is set to become the largest franchisee of Philly Pretzel Factory in Central Florida! 🎉 With a proven track record as the former president of PepsiCo Beverages NA and current owner of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, Derek is on a mission to bring the iconic taste of Philly-style pretzels to the Sunshine State. This partnership not only highlights his passion for Philadelphia’s rich food culture but also exemplifies the power of entrepreneurship in driving community connections. Derek emphasizes, "This partnership allows me to bring another authentic Philadelphia experience to Florida, complementing our successful Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks operations." The first locations are anticipated to open in late 2025, promising a delightful mix of traditional and innovative pretzel offerings. 🥨 Let’s support and celebrate Derek in this exciting new venture! 💬 What are your favorite Philly foods? Share your thoughts below! 👇 #Entrepreneurship #Franchise #PhillyPretzelFactory #BlackBusiness #CommunityImpact

💡 **Why We Still Need HBCUs: A Call to Action** 💡 As we embrace Black History Month, it's essential to reflect on the vital role Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play in shaping our future. Did you know HBCUs contribute **$14.8 billion** annually to the U.S. economy? These institutions have historically provided a pathway for Black students, producing leaders like Kamala Harris, Oprah Winfrey, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In a time of uncertainty, especially with political shifts threatening educational funding, we must stand firm in our support for HBCUs. They are not just educational institutions; they are incubators for talent and community leaders. A strong reminder from Dr. Michael Lomax, CEO of UNCF: “For more than 100 years, HBCUs have been educating minorities, giving them economic opportunities, and instilling values.” Let's unite in ensuring the survival and thriving of these crucial institutions. Together, we can empower the next generation! 🔗 Read more about the importance of HBCUs in the full article here: [Link to article] #HBCUs #BlackHistoryMonth #EducationMatters #SupportHBCUs #FutureLeaders