The Black Business Association (BBA) is proud to announce the 2nd Annual Black Business Day, set to take place on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 11 AM to 5 PM. This year’s event, hosted at the Culinary Arts Building of the Los Angeles Trade-Technical College on Grand Avenue near 23rd Street, is poised to be a vibrant celebration of Black entrepreneurship and innovation. With a rich array of activities, panels, and networking opportunities, the event promises to be a cornerstone for the Black business community in Los Angeles. Open and free to the public with registration, Black Business Day is designed to uplift and support Black-owned businesses across the region.
In partnership with U.S. Bank and 102.3FM KJLH, the BBA has curated an engaging experience for the anticipated 1,000+ attendees. The event will feature over 60 business resource and merchant vendors, three dynamic speaker panels, a diverse food court, and a Beer & Wine Garden Lounge hosted by 1010 Wine & Events. Attendees can look forward to vendor spotlights, music provided by a KJLH DJ, and the chance to win hundreds of dollars in prizes. A highlight of the day will be the opportunity to experience will.i.am’s FYI app, the world’s first AI-powered communications platform for creative collaboration.
Event Highlights:
- Opening Ceremony and Main Stage Program: The event kicks off at 11 AM with music, games, food, and a Beer & Wine Garden. At 12 PM, Tammi Mac, a KJLH Radio Personality, Actress, and Author, will host the Main Stage Program. The program will feature welcoming remarks from BBA President/CEO Sarah Harris, along with acknowledgments and sponsor remarks, setting the tone for a day of inspiration and celebration.
- Speaker Panels: Starting at 12:30 PM, three panels will cover critical topics for Black business owners and entrepreneurs. The first panel, “AI and Innovative Business Solutions,” moderated by Donnell Laynes of TwinFlame Ventures, will feature experts discussing the integration of AI in business. The second panel, “Capital Access,” moderated by Delphine Pruitt of U.S. Bank, will focus on financing and investment opportunities. The final panel, “Contracting and Business Opportunities,” moderated by Kimberly Rolfe of SC-VBC, will explore how to secure contracts and grow businesses in today’s competitive market.
- FYI App Experience: Attendees will get a firsthand look at the FYI (Focus Your Ideas) mobile app presented by global music artist and tech entrepreneur will.i.am. Designed for business leaders in tech, music, fashion, and corporate sectors, FYI.ai offers innovative solutions for creative collaboration. The app’s features will be showcased during the AI and Business Tech panel, with insights from the FYI tech team.
- #BolsterBlackLA Media Stage: Hosted by multimedia personality Danny Morrison, this stage will feature live-streamed interviews and activities, offering businesses the opportunity to promote themselves and learn about additional promotional tools.
- Beer & Wine Garden Lounge: The Beer & Wine Garden Lounge, hosted by 1010 Wine & Events, will provide a relaxed atmosphere for networking and collaboration. This space is designed to foster meaningful conversations and connections among attendees, creating opportunities for business growth and community building.
- Invited Guests and Media Coverage: The event has invited several prominent figures, including Mayor Karen Bass, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, and Senator Steven Bradford, among others. Media partners like KJLH and other local outlets will be covering the event, further amplifying the reach and impact of Black Business Day.
Join the Celebration:
Black Business Day is a unique opportunity to network, learn, and celebrate the vibrant Black business community in Los Angeles. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance to gain access to special giveaways and participate in activities like the scavenger hunt. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, and free parking is provided at the 23rd and Grand Parking Structure.
For vendor participation, please contact Linda Morgan Sam at (562) 762-6441 or jazzzonejazzabration@gmail.com. For speaker and media inquiries, reach out to Lela Thompson at (310) 308-1797 or societynineteengroup@gmail.com. Additional information is available by contacting Sarah Harris at (323) 445-6745 or via email at sharris@bbala.org. Visit the BBA website for more details at www.bbala.org.
About the Black Business Association (BBA):
Founded in 1970, the Black Business Association (BBA) has been a leading advocate for Black and small businesses in California. The BBA champions equal access to capital, contract opportunities, education, and mentoring, fostering networking and collaborations. The BBA’s commitment to showcasing Black enterprise is especially prominent during National Black Business Month in August, continuing a legacy of support that began with the first “Black Business Day” in Los Angeles in 1987.
- BBA Event Details:
- Event: 2nd Annual Black Business Day Expo
- Date: Saturday, August 17, 2024
- Location: LA Trade-Technical College, Culinary Arts Building on Grand Avenue near 23rd Street
- Time: 11 AM – 5 PM
- Friends and Family can RSVP: https://bbala.org/events/
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qp9qcgywx5jwnazj - Event Eblast: https://conta.cc/3yyY6kd