Saint Paul, MN - The Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated Black Out Business Gala, presented by Wells Fargo, scheduled for Saturday, August 26, 2023.

This grand event will take place at the prestigious Saint Paul RiverCentre, marking the culmination of Black Business Month celebrations. The gala promises to be an unforgettable evening of recognition, inspiration, and empowerment as we honor the achievements of Black-owned businesses in the state of Minnesota and their immense contributions to our community.

The MBCC is dedicated to empowering Black-owned businesses and fostering economic development within their communities. Since its inception almost two decades ago, the MBCC has been a driving force in providing essential resources and opportunities to Black entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. From access to capital and technical assistance to mentorship and education, the MBCC has been a steadfast advocate and a one-stop shop for Black businesses seeking growth and success.

Building Bridges, Creating Opportunities

Over the years, the MBCC has demonstrated its commitment to the Minnesota Black entrepreneurship community through various initiatives and programs. During the challenging times of the pandemic, the MBCC swiftly adapted to ensure even greater accessibility and responsiveness to the needs of Black businesses. Virtual education opportunities, collaborative events with several Black-centered organizations, a high-impact mentorship program, and a comprehensive Minnesota Black Business Directory are just a few of the many initiatives that contributed to the organization's success during the pandemic years.

In 2022 alone, the MBCC facilitated networking and educational programming for over 700 people and connected more than 450 Black businesses to critical resources. Witnessing such remarkable progress, the MBCC is now setting its sights on an ambitious endeavor - the 10,000 Black Businesses Program. This transformative initiative aims to increase the number of Black businesses in Minnesota over the next five years by empowering them to hire more employees, grow revenue, and amplify their impact on the community.

Advocacy and Empowerment

At the heart of the MBCC's mission is the belief that empowering Black business owners and entrepreneurs requires giving them a voice. Through education workshops, networking events, and specialized programming, the MBCC ensures that the challenges and successes of Black entrepreneurs are shared and understood. By centering the perspectives of Black entrepreneurs, the MBCC ensures that all the resources and relationships it offers remain relevant and impactful.

In addition to its invaluable initiatives, the MBCC forges strategic partnerships with Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), local banks, government institutions, and business associations. This ecosystem of collaborative partners fosters access, equitable practices, and economic vibrancy for Black businesses and their communities.

Join Us at the Black Out Business Gala

The Black Out Business Gala is a unique opportunity for the Twin Cities community to show their support for Black-owned businesses and celebrate their achievements. The event will feature industry networking, live entertainment and inspiring speakers to celebrate and uplift the Black business community. Corporate sponsors, funders and financial institutions are encouraged to attend and engage directly with Black business owners during the specialized programming, providing an opportunity for deeper understanding and engagement.

About the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce

Founded in 2004, the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic organization committed to serving and empowering Black-owned businesses in Minnesota. Through strategic partnerships, mentorship programs, workshops, networking opportunities, and grants, the MBCC aims to address racial economic disparities and increase wealth in Black communities.