*Daymond John, the founder and CEO of FUBU and Co-Star of ABC’s “Shark Tank,” has announced the fourth annual Black Entrepreneurs Day (BED).
Black Entrepreneurs Day is an annual celebration of Black businesses aiming to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. This year’s free, global livestream will air on Wednesday, November 1st, 2023 across the Black Entrepreneurs Day Website, YouTube, Facebook, and more at 7 p.m. EST.
The event, in conjunction with Medium Rare and The Shark Group, will feature one-on-one discussions with Black business leaders and cultural icons including Whoopi Goldberg, Shaquille O’Neal, Cedric the Entertainer, Anthony Anderson, and Rick Ross moderated by Daymond John. Additionally, tennis superstar Sloane Stephens and sports journalist Cari Champion will lead thought-provoking conversations, according to the press release.
As part of this year’s programming, Rick Ross will serve up a special performance at the Apollo Theater as part of the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop celebration.
Since its inception, Black Entrepreneurs Day has provided guidance and inspiration to the next generation of rising entrepreneurs as well as over $750,000 in business grants via the “NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant,” created by Daymond John.
In 2022, BED attracted over 7.6 million broadcast viewers and took home two Webby Awards, per the press release.
“We may be three years out from the George Floyd travesty and the height of support for Black Lives Matter, but the need for resources and community support for our Black businesses remains paramount. I salute our partners who year after year, support our mission to educate and inspire Black entrepreneurs around the globe,” said John in a statement.
“This is a full circle moment for me. We will once again host the event at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem, a place where I started my very own entrepreneurial journey by selling FUBU hats on the street. And it’s even more poignant as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop which has transcended music to be such an important cultural force for so many,” he added.
According to the news release, Black Entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking financial support to take their business to the next level can apply now for a $25,000 NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant by visiting BEDGrant.com through October 11th, 2023.
“As we embark on the fourth year of the NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant, we are thrilled to once again open the doors of opportunity for Black entrepreneurs across the nation. Through the NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant, we are providing the support and resources necessary to enable Black enterprises to not only thrive but also drive positive change in their respective sectors,” said Yumeka Rushing, NAACP Chief Strategy Officer. “We invite aspiring and established Black entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity and join us in shaping a brighter future for all. The NAACP remains committed to fostering economic growth and sustainability for Black communities. This is what advocacy in action looks like.”
*via press release
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