The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) is launching an essay contest for college students and high school seniors in connection with its upcoming Juneteenth Black Business Expo. The contest aims to engage students in a discussion about diversity, equity, and inclusion in government contracting and procurement.
Essay Prompt
- Analyze the findings of the New Jersey Disparity Study on underutilization of minority- and women-owned businesses in public contracts. Discuss whether these results justify implementing diversity programs and propose specific initiatives to address the disparities.
- If you or your family own a minority- or women-owned business impacted by the documented disparities, describe those experiences and how they inform your perspective on needed reforms.
- Discuss the potential broader benefits for New Jersey’s economy, workforce, and communities from increasing diversity and equity in government procurement.Rules and Requirements
- Open to college students aged 21 or younger and high school seniors attending schools in New Jersey in either case
- Essays must address all parts of the prompt using no more than 10,000 characters
- Submit via online form no later than 11:59 p.m. on May 17, 2024: https://forms.gle/artbzp1GanX33sB46Awards for College Students
- 1st Place: $1,000 and two AACCNJ Juneteenth Black Business Expo tickets
- 2nd Place: $750 and two AACCNJ Juneteenth Black Business Expo tickets
- 3rd Place: $500 and two AACCNJ Juneteenth Black Business Expo ticketsAwards for High School Students
- 1st Place: $750 and two AACCNJ Juneteenth Black Business Expo tickets
- 2nd Place: $500 and two AACCNJ Juneteenth Black Business Expo tickets
- 3rd Place: $250 and two AACCNJ Juneteenth Black Business Expo ticketsWinners will be notified by May 29, 2024.
This is an excellent opportunity for students to share their perspectives on an important and timely issue. Spread the word and encourage eligible individuals to participate!
To learn more about the AACCNJ Juneteenth Black Business Expo, visit https://www.aaccnj.com/black-business-expo.
