The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Support Incubator recently hosted the Rise & Grind networking breakfast to celebrate National Black Business Month.
This event was attended by UAPB administrators, faculty and staff and provided a platform for local business owners and entrepreneurs to share their businesses and be celebrated for their contributions to the community, according to a news release.
“August is recognized as National Black Business Month, and it was only fitting to celebrate our locally owned businesses,” said UBSI Interim Executive Director Angelisa Henry.
“We had several industries represented and resource partners on-site to answer questions, including SBA, FBT Bank, Communities Unlimited, the Secretary of State’s Office and the Arkansas Department of Health. I am very excited about the trajectory of our small business ecosystem and happy to be a resource to assist with accomplishing their business goals,” Henry said.
National Black Business Month is an opportunity for the community to support and celebrate Black-owned businesses. Recent data from the Department of Small and Local Business Development reveals there are approximately 3.12 million Black-owned businesses in the United States. These businesses employ 1.18 million people and generate $133.7 billion in total sales.
An article from DC.gov explained, “Supporting Black-owned businesses can significantly boost revenue and employment opportunities within the community.”
It suggested the following ways to support Black businesses:
Buy from Black-owned businesses: Your purchase helps strengthen the economic foundation of the local business community, fostering growth and sustainability.
Engage in community events: Attend and support local events and markets that feature Black-owned businesses to show your solidarity and help build a stronger community.
Share on social media: To increase visibility, give a shout-out to your favorite Black-owned businesses using the hashtags #BuyBlack, #blackowned, #smallbizpb, #pbbcc, and #UAPBIncubator.
The UAPB Business Support Incubator is located at 615 S. Main St., Pine Bluff, AR 71601, and is part of the UAPB Economic Research and Development Center. Details: Angelisa Henry at [email protected].
Angelisa Henry (left) interim executive director at the UAPB Business Support Incubator, takes the stage with UAPB Interim Chancellor Andrea Stewart at the UAPB Incubator Rise and Grind Networking event. (Special to The Commercial/University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff)