Saskatoon Black Business Expo returns for second edition to empower Black entrepreneurs | Saskatoon Black Business Expo returns for second edition to empower Black entrepreneurs The Guardian Nigeria News

The highly anticipated 2nd Saskatoon Black Business Expo is set to take place at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, providing a platform for Black entrepreneurs and business professionals to showcase their ventures, connect with industry leaders, and access vital resources.

This year’s event organized by Saskatoon Black Business Network is expected to be even bigger and better, with an expanded lineup of vendors, expert-led workshops, and networking opportunities.

Since its first edition, the Expo has grown significantly, attracting more vendors and funders, leading to increased visibility for Black-owned businesses in Saskatoon. “The Expo has attracted more vendors and more funders, ensuring we have greater visibility for Black-owned businesses in Saskatoon,” said Dr. John Owojori, the event co-organizer.

Attendees can look forward to a diverse showcase of Black-owned businesses spanning various industries, as well as insightful workshop sessions led by successful Black entrepreneurs such as Nowshad Ali, CEO, On Purpose Leadership Inc., Saskatoon as well as representatives from TD Bank and BDC. “Attendees can expect to see excellence in business and commerce from Black businesses in various industries. In addition, there will be workshop sessions by seasoned Black entrepreneurs in Saskatoon, as well as funding organizations,” said Mrs Tosin Fetuga, the other event co-organizer.

The event’s opening ceremony at 10 a.m. will feature remarks from organizers, top public officials from the Saskatchewan Government and the City of Saskatoon, as well as partners and sponsors, who will share their vision and reasons for supporting the initiative. Additionally, the organizers will unveil plans for an Entrepreneurship Pitch Award for Black businesses, scheduled for Fall 2025.

The Expo plays a vital role in driving the growth of Black-owned businesses by offering them greater visibility and connections within the broader business community. “The Expo gives visibility to Black businesses in Saskatoon and provides access to the mainstream population. For instance, before the Expo, we weren’t aware of Black-owned printing firms in Saskatoon. Now, we know that our Black vendors can print everything from lanyards to brochures and lawn signs,” Owojori stated.

Beyond showcasing businesses, the Expo fosters inclusivity and economic empowerment through collaborations with major organizations.

“The fact that the Expo is in partnership with the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the Saskatchewan Government, BDC, and WESK is a testament to the value of inclusivity. The success of a Black-owned business benefits the whole community, as all businesses thrive together. When businesses succeed, they contribute to the economy through job creation and tax revenue,” said Tosin Fetuga, co-organizer and partner at Noblelinks Consulting.

Networking and collaboration will be a key focus of the Expo, with businesses engaging in business-to-business (B2B) interactions and funders on-site to discuss financing opportunities. “There will be opportunities for businesses to interact with other businesses, encouraging B2B engagements and fostering partnerships. Additionally, funders will be present to engage with businesses about funding opportunities,” Fetuga stated.

Looking beyond Saskatoon, the Expo aims to strengthen economic ties between Canada and the home countries of many Black entrepreneurs in the province. “One of the aims of the Expo is to encourage and increase bilateral relations among our native countries and Canada. Globalization has underscored the importance of international collaboration for economic growth,” Owojori noted.

The organizers highlighted African nations and Canada as an example, emphasizing the potential for business collaboration, joint ventures, and institutional support that could benefit both regions.

On their part, Speaker of the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly, Todd Goudy, and Mayor of Saskatoon, Cynthia Block, recognized the significant contributions of the Black community to the province’s economic growth.

“The economic strength of our province comes from the hard work and sacrifice of industry and business, of which you (the Black community) are a very important part,” said Goudy.

“This Expo provides a vital platform to showcase the innovative spirit, resilience, and creativity that define the Black business community in Saskatoon. The growth and success of these businesses not only enhance our local economy but also enrich the diversity and cultural vibrancy of our city,” Block stated.

With its growing impact and vision for international collaboration, the Saskatoon Black Business Expo is not only a celebration of Black entrepreneurship but also a catalyst for economic growth and inclusivity. As the event draws near, organizers, participants, and supporters are gearing up for a day of inspiration, connection, and opportunity.

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