A Story of
Community
Empowerment
In the heart of Edmonton, a powerful movement has taken root, a movement driven by a vision of unity, empowerment, and economic growth within the Black business community. The Black Business Edmonton Trade Fair, held on August 24, 2024, at the historic Blatchford Field Air Hangar in Fort Edmonton Park, epitomizes this vision.
The 2024 fair welcomed an astounding 90 vendors from diverse sectors, showcasing their innovative products and services to an enthusiastic crowd of over 1,000 attendees. Families, entrepreneurs, and community members gathered to celebrate the richness of Black entrepreneurship while fostering connections that would strengthen the community for years to come.
Did you know a homogenous business landscape stifles innovation and economic growth?Edmonton's Black entrepreneurial community is a vibrant force, yet limited access to resources hinders their contributions. The Black Business Edmonton Trade Fair isn't just about celebrating diversity; it's about fueling Edmonton's GDP. By supporting Black businesses and their unique perspectives, we unlock a wellspring of creativity and fresh approaches that benefit everyone. Studies show that diverse businesses drive higher innovation and profitability – it's a win-win for Edmonton's economy. Unfortunately, despite their immense potential, Black-owned businesses in Edmonton struggle to gain the visibility and support they deserve. The Black Business Edmonton Trade Fair dismantles these barriers by providing a dedicated space for these businesses to shine. |  |
The fair was made possible through the invaluable contributions of numerous stakeholders, each playing a vital role in ensuring its success. Black Business Edmonton served as the driving force behind the initiative, led by founder Ibukun Orefuja (IBK) and his dedicated team. The collaborative efforts of organizations such as the Edmonton Regional Innovation Network, RBC, and the BDC provided vital support, empowering vendors with the resources they needed to thrive.
Attendees not only experienced the vibrancy of Black-owned businesses but also had access to a wealth of resources. Representatives from City of Edmonton Procurement and Business Friendly Support offered guidance on navigating the complexities of business operations. Furthermore, mental health resources were made available, ensuring that vendors and attendees alike felt supported in their entrepreneurial journeys.
The atmosphere at the fair was electric, filled with laughter, inspiration, and a shared commitment to uplifting the community. Vendors reported a 85% increase in sales and business exposure, a testament to the fair's impact. The stories of perseverance, innovation, and resilience were woven throughout the event, reminding everyone present of the strength found in unity.
AMA (Alberta Motor Association) played a pivotal role by providing essential business registration resources, guiding aspiring entrepreneurs through the often daunting process of establishing their businesses. This support was invaluable for many vendors looking to navigate the complexities of starting and growing their enterprises.
TELUS provided crucial internet services, ensuring that vendors could connect with potential customers seamlessly. The partnership with the Africa Centre Entrepreneurship Program added another layer of support, offering tailored resources and mentorship to Black entrepreneurs, enhancing their ability to succeed in a competitive marketplace.
The fair also prioritized the well-being of its community. Engage Health Global offered physical and mental health services, ensuring that vendors and attendees alike felt supported in their entrepreneurial journeys. The Alberta Black Therapist Network further contributed by providing accessible mental health resources, emphasizing the importance of mental wellness in the pursuit of business success.
Don't Just Spend Money, Invest Wisely
As we celebrate the success of the Black Business Edmonton Trade Fair, we are reminded of the incredible power of community. This is just the beginning, and we need your support to sustain this momentum.
Your contributions will enable us to expand our reach, provide additional resources, and create even more significant opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.
Looking ahead, we are excited to announce two signature events planned for 2025:
- Voices and Ventures in March 2025
- BBE Trade Fair 2025 in August 2025, where we aim to host 150 vendors!
Funding Allocation for the 2025 Trade Fair
The funding for the 2025 Trade Fair will be allocated to several key areas to ensure the event's success and enhance the experience for both vendors and attendees. Here's a breakdown of how the funding will be utilized:
-
Venue Rental: A portion of the funds will be allocated to securing a suitable venue that can accommodate our vision for the trade fair. This includes ensuring ample space for vendors, attendees, and various activities, creating an inviting atmosphere for all.
-
Tables, Chairs, Tents & Booth Setup: These funds will cover the rental or purchase of tables, chairs, tents, and other necessary equipment to set up booths for vendors. This ensures that all participating businesses have a professional and comfortable space to display their products and services.
-
Marketing and Promotion: Allocated funds will be used for advertising and promoting the trade fair through various channels such as social media, local newspapers, radio, and online platforms. This strategy helps attract a larger audience and increases visibility for both the event and participating businesses.
-
Kids’ Activity Area: To make the trade fair family-friendly, funds will be allocated to set up a designated area with activities and entertainment for children. This could include games, crafts, face painting, and other engaging activities to keep kids entertained while their parents explore the fair.
-
Media Coverage: Funding will be directed towards securing media coverage from local news outlets, bloggers, and influencers. This approach helps generate buzz and provides additional exposure for the event and its participants.
-
T-Shirts for Volunteers: Volunteers are crucial for the smooth operation of the trade fair. Funds will be used to provide them with branded T-shirts, which serve as uniforms while promoting the event and creating a sense of unity and professionalism among the volunteer team.
-
Side Attractions: To enhance the overall experience, funds will be allocated to organize side attractions such as live music, entertainment, food vendors, and interactive activities. These attractions help draw more attendees and keep them engaged throughout the event.
Your support will make a significant impact in these areas, ensuring that the 2025 Trade Fair is a memorable and successful event for everyone involved!
For more information on how to become a supporter or participant, please visit our website https://bbedm.ca/tradefair/
BBE ON THE MEDIA
Vendor Interviews and Swag Delivery
Promotional Items
Connect With Us!
Instagram: Black Business Edmonton (@blackbusinessedmonton) • Instagram photos and videos
LinkedIn: Black Business Edmonton: Overview | LinkedIn
Highlights
See all activity6Indigenous Ceremony
Indigenous Acknowledgement Event for the BBE Trade Fair 2024
The Indigenous Acknowledgement Ceremony, held on August 23rd 2024, from 9AM to 10AM at Blatchford Field Air Hangar in Fort Edmonton Park, a day before the BBE Trade Fair 2024, was a heartfelt and significant event, attended by community leaders.
It served as an opportunity to honor Indigenous communities, express our gratitude, and present them with meaningful gifts in recognition of their culture and land. This meaningful moment added depth and inclusivity to the fair, fostering unity and respect.
RBC Vendor Mixer
The RBC Mixer Event, held on August 23rd, from 6PM to 8PM at the historic Blatchford Field Air Hangar in Fort Edmonton Park, served as an exclusive networking opportunity preceding the Black Business Edmonton Trade Fair 2024.
Powered by RBC, this event brought together vendors, business professionals, and community leaders for an evening of connection and collaboration. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations, established valuable relationships, and set the stage for a successful trade fair the following.
