We understand that Black-owned businesses and their founders face unique challenges. For those who are just dreaming up their businesses to those who are scaling their already solid ventures, and those who want to support minority businesses, our resource hub is to help you plan your next business move. This is your one stop, easy-to-use tool to help you succeed.
Harness the power. Harness YOUR power. Together, we can BE PowerFL.
Florida & National Organizations
Minority-Owned Certifications
Resources, Funding & Programs
Calendar of Events
Florida & National Organizations
Minority-Owned Certifications
Resources, Funding & Programs
Calendar of Events
Florida & National Organizations
A Chamber of Commerce is a network or association of businesspeople that exists to promote and protect the interests of its members, usually serving specific geographic areas. Involvement in Chambers of Commerce can help businesses connect with potential clients, learn about upcoming changes in the community, and become more know in the community as a business leader and viable business. While the following are minority-focused, there are many benefits to engage with all types of Chambers of Commerce.
African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Serving Central Florida.
African American Chamber of Commerce – Polk County
Serving Polk County.
Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce
Supporting women- and minority-owned businesses in Leon, Gadsden Wakulla, Franklin and Jefferson.
Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County
Serving Palm Beach County.
Broward Black Chamber of Commerce
Serving Broward County.
Capital City Chamber of Commerce
Serving the Tallahassee area.
Greater First Coast Chamber of Commerce
Representing Underrepresented Businesses of the North Florida and Southeast Georgia.
Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce
Serving the Greater Gainesville area.
Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce
Supporting minority businesses in the Pensacola area.
Jacksonville Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in the Jacksonville area.
Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in Manatee and Sarasota counties.
Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in Miami-Dade County.
Northwest Florida Minority Business Chamber
Supporting minority businesses in northwest Florida.
South Florida Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in South Florida.
The Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses on the Space Coast.
The Tampa Bay Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in the Tampa area.
African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Serving Central Florida.
African American Chamber of Commerce – Polk County
Serving Polk County.
Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce
Supporting women- and minority-owned businesses in Leon, Gadsden Wakulla, Franklin and Jefferson.
Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County
Serving Palm Beach County.
Broward Black Chamber of Commerce
Serving Broward County.
Capital City Chamber of Commerce
Serving the Tallahassee area.
Greater First Coast Chamber of Commerce
Representing Underrepresented Businesses of the North Florida and Southeast Georgia.
Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce
Serving the Greater Gainesville area.
Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce
Supporting minority businesses in the Pensacola area.
Jacksonville Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in the Jacksonville area.
Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in Manatee and Sarasota counties.
Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in Miami-Dade County.
Northwest Florida Minority Business Chamber
Supporting minority businesses in northwest Florida.
South Florida Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in South Florida.
The Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses on the Space Coast.
The Tampa Bay Black Chamber of Commerce
Supporting Black businesses in the Tampa area.
Florida has numerous chapters of the National Urban League. The Leagues work to promote economic empowerment through education and job training, housing and community development, workforce development, entrepreneurship, health, and quality of life. They provide programs and events that enhance personal growth skills, job readiness training, financial literacy education, entrepreneurship development opportunities, civic engagement initiatives, and a variety of other services.
Jacksonville Urban League
Pinellas County Urban League
Tallahassee Urban League
Urban League of Broward County
Urban League of Greater Miami
Urban League of Palm Beach County
Urban League of Central Florida
Urban League of Hillsborough County
Jacksonville Urban League
Pinellas County Urban League
Tallahassee Urban League
Urban League of Broward County
Urban League of Greater Miami
Urban League of Palm Beach County
Urban League of Central Florida
Urban League of Hillsborough County
– Florida Organization
There are many statewide, regional and national organizations focused on supporting and promoting Black businesses and professionals. These organizations offer opportunities for certifications, training, networking, and other business and professional growth opportunities.
Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council
Established in 1975, FSMSDC has grown to be the leading connector of Corporate and Government Members with Minority Business Enterprises to foster equity in a business. FSMSDC has certified thousands of MBEs, connecting them to corporations focused on Diversity and Inclusion. These connections have resulted in over $50 billion in MBE Sales and countless successful partnerships.
National Minority Supplier Development Council
Founded in 1972, NMSDC is the longest-operating business growth engine for the broadest group of systematically excluded communities of color (Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, and Native American). The organization’s work is about correcting the unequal access to wealth-building opportunities. NMSDC is supported by 23 Regional Affiliates nationwide which are the backbone of its gold standard certification program, working in the field locally to ensure our 15,000+ certified MBEs reach their full potential with its 1,500+ corporate members.
U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
Known as the “National Voice of Black Businesses”, The USBC provides committed, visionary leadership, and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, it supports a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises.
Industry-Specific Organizations
– Florida Organization
National Association of Black Accountants, Inc.
An association dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap for Black Business Leaders in accounting, finance business, and entrepreneurship. Representing more than 200,000 Black Business Leaders in these fields, NABA promotes advancing people, careers, and the mission by providing education, resources, and meaningful career connections to professional and student members.
National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. – Miami Chapter
An association dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap for Black Business Leaders in accounting, finance business, and entrepreneurship. NABA promotes advancing people, careers, and the mission by providing education, resources, and meaningful career connections to professional and student members.
National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. – Jacksonville Chapter
An association dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap for Black Business Leaders in accounting, finance business, and entrepreneurship. NABA promotes advancing people, careers, and the mission by providing education, resources, and meaningful career connections to professional and student members.
National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. – Tampa Bay Chapter
An association dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap for Black Business Leaders in accounting, finance business, and entrepreneurship. The mission of the NABA, Inc. Tampa Bay Chapter is to address the professional needs of its members and to build leaders that shape the future of the accounting and finance profession with an unfaltering commitment to inspire the same in their successors.
National Society of Black Certified Public Accountants
NSBCPA is focused on increasing the number of Black CPAs by providing the most relevant knowledge, resources, and advocacy; and to promote cultural competence, diversity, and inclusion within the profession.
– Florida Organization
African American Entrepreneurs Association (AAEA)
Provides capital, education, mentoring, workshops, and additional support to assist entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses. Find additional resources here.
Association of Black Business Coaches & Consultants
A membership organization designed to build the skills and business networks that enable members to be more successful in their chosen professions. The organization also provides tools, training, development, and networking opportunities for members.
Black Business Association
Advocates for the development of African American-owned businesses by providing financial opportunities, contract opportunities, development assistance, training, and networking. The BBA is proud of its strategic alliances with Banks, Corporations, Community-based organizations, and most of all, with our African American business owners.
Black Career Women’s Network
BCWN is a national career development organization dedicated to fostering the professional growth of black women. Established in 2012, the organization provides coaching, events, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs
An organization of African American women that are business owners, certified, licensed, and degreed professionals. The organization has a history of promoting and protecting the interest of progressive women in Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Service (L.E.T.S.) in areas of Health, Education, Employment, and Economic Development (H.E.E.D.).
National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs – Southeast District
An organization of African American women that are business owners, certified, licensed, and degreed professionals. The organization has a history of promoting and protecting the interest of progressive women in Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Service (L.E.T.S.) in areas of Health, Education, Employment, and Economic Development (H.E.E.D.). Three Southeast District Clubs: Broward County, Miami-Dade, and South Florida.
National Black Business Council
An organization dedicated to the creation and advancement of African American and minority owned businesses. Its mission is to create and support programs that will close the economic and digital divides between minority and majority businesses. The Council accomplishes its mission through the strategic partnerships with Fortune 1000 companies which provide member businesses with procurement opportunities and access to capital. Representing a powerful community of entrepreneurs, the Council works closely with state and federal legislators on issues of concern to black businesses.
National Society of Black Consultants
An organization with a mission to grow the number of socially responsible Black Consultants who shine scholastically, prosper professionally, and provide a positive influence within their community.
Organization of Black Designers
OBD is a national professional organization of interior, industrial, architectural, fashion, and graphic designers dedicated to promoting the visibility, empowerment, education, and interaction of its membership and the understanding and value that diverse design perspectives contribute to world culture and commerce.
– Florida Organization
/dev /color
Global community of powerful Black software engineers, technologists, and executives across 500+ companies and ventures. Provides training, development, career building, exclusive professional networking, and social events.
National Society of Black Engineers
NSBE is one of the largest student-governed organizations based in the United States. NSBE, founded in 1975, supports and promotes the aspirations of collegiate and pre-collegiate students and technical professionals in engineering and technology.
National Society of Black Engineers – Region III
NSBE, founded in 1975, supports and promotes the aspirations of collegiate and pre-collegiate students and technical professionals in engineering and technology. Region III is comprised of chapters and members that are located in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, the Caribbean, and South America
– Florida Organization
Association of Black Women Physicians
ABWP provides an ongoing forum to support the success of African-American women in medicine, science, and public health. It also creates critical opportunities for social networking and mentorship to students and trainees; along with community health literacy and public health advocacy.
National Medical Association
The NMA promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent, serving as the collective voice of physicians of African descent and a leading force for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health.
National Medical Association – Region III
The NMA promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent, serving as the collective voice of physicians of African descent and a leading force for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health. Region III serves: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
Black Beauty Association
BBA promotes the businesses of Beauty Professionals which includes but is not limited to established cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, massage therapists, barbers, make-up artists, photographers, models, fashion stylists, fashion designers, product manufactures, distributors, and beauty show producers. BBA is dedicated to meeting the professional needs of black beauty professionals, licensed beauty professionals, and beauty industry students.
Black Owned Beauty Supply Association
BOBA is focused on assisting Black Entrepreneurs with owning and operating Beauty Supply Stores internationally, as well as providing vocational training, job placement, and educational scholarships to the Black community.
BBA promotes the businesses of Beauty Professionals which includes but is not limited to established cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, massage therapists, barbers, make-up artists, photographers, models, fashion stylists, fashion designers, product manufactures, distributors, and beauty show producers. BBA is dedicated to meeting the professional needs of black beauty professionals, licensed beauty professionals, and beauty industry students.
Black Owned Beauty Supply Association
BOBA is focused on assisting Black Entrepreneurs with owning and operating Beauty Supply Stores internationally, as well as providing vocational training, job placement, and educational scholarships to the Black community.
Black Culinary Alliance
An organization that works with the people, and for the people, to educate, cultivate, and mentor multicultural talent within the culinary, foodservice, and hospitality industries, as well as honor their achievements, milestones, and supporters.
An organization that works with the people, and for the people, to educate, cultivate, and mentor multicultural talent within the culinary, foodservice, and hospitality industries, as well as honor their achievements, milestones, and supporters.
African-American Marketing Association
A professional membership organization for Black marketers to help with their career or entrepreneur journey. AAMA engages members through a Facebook group, virtual events, shared resources, and career opportunities. It strives to provide resources and opportunities for one to learn, grow, and connect.
Black Marketers Association of America
National organization developed to connect Black Marketers with one another. Members are Black Marketers who have an extensive knowledge base and years of experience while also managing to stay up to date on the latest trends and developments in the industry.
A professional membership organization for Black marketers to help with their career or entrepreneur journey. AAMA engages members through a Facebook group, virtual events, shared resources, and career opportunities. It strives to provide resources and opportunities for one to learn, grow, and connect.
Black Marketers Association of America
National organization developed to connect Black Marketers with one another. Members are Black Marketers who have an extensive knowledge base and years of experience while also managing to stay up to date on the latest trends and developments in the industry.
– Florida Organization
National Sales Network
NSN’s objective is to meet the professional and developmental needs of sales and sales management professionals and individuals. Since 1996 NSN has conducted an annual conference and career fair, with conference attendance exceeding 1,700 people from all major metro areas nationwide.
National Sales Network – Orlando Chapter – Florida
NSN’s objective is to meet the professional and developmental needs of sales and sales management professionals and individuals.
National Sales Network – South Florida Chapter
NSN’s objective is to meet the professional and developmental needs of sales and sales management professionals and individuals.
– Florida Organization
/dev /color
Global community of powerful Black software engineers, technologists, and executives across 500+ companies and ventures. Provides training, development, career building, exclusive professional networking, and social events.
Black Data Processing Associates
For more than 40 years, BDPA has enabled the upward mobility of African Americans and other minorities in the Information Technology and STEM fields. Through its 30+ local community chapters in major cities across the United States, BDPA has been at the forefront of promoting the minority agenda within the IT profession since 1975.
Black Founders
An organization that empowers entrepreneurs and provide founders with access to advice, mentorship, and funding. Its goal is to goal is to create an ecosystem that stimulates tech entrepreneurship and fosters economic growth in the community. The vision for Black Founders is to develop global programs that equip entrepreneurs, inspire innovation, and allow the organization to share resources and knowledge.
Black Men Talk Tech
An entrepreneurship collective which promotes collaboration between Black men and other members of the tech ecosystem. The Black Men Talk Tech Unicorn Ambition Conference is a national tech conference which focuses on the impact work of increasing the participation of Black tech entrepreneurs in the Innovation Economy.
Black Women Talk Tech
BWTT is a collective of women entrepreneurs focused on building billion dollar scalable or tech companies. BWTT created a tech conference, Roadmap to Billions, designed specifically for Black women tech entrepreneurs to create a space where black women could for once, be seen and heard and have their ideas invested in. The conference is now the largest convening of Black women tech entrepreneurs and technologists.
Blacks in Technology
Blacks In Technology is a global platform establishing standards for world class technical excellence. BIT serves members through community, media and mentorship. It provides resources, guidance and challenges members to establish new standards of innovation.
Blacks in Technology – Jacksonville Chapter
Blacks In Technology is a global platform establishing standards for world class technical excellence. BIT serves members through community, media and mentorship. It provides resources, guidance and challenges members to establish new standards of innovation.
Blacks in Technology – Tampa Chapter
Blacks In Technology is a global platform establishing standards for world class technical excellence. BIT serves members through community, media and mentorship. It provides resources, guidance and challenges members to establish new standards of innovation.
Blacks in Technology – Miami Chapter
Blacks In Technology is a global platform establishing standards for world class technical excellence. BIT serves members through community, media and mentorship. It provides resources, guidance and challenges members to establish new standards of innovation.
National Association of Black Veterinarians
NAVB advocates, provides support for, and cultivates an inclusive COMMUNITY for blacks in veterinary medicine at every level of the profession through the organization, members, and leadership.
NAVB advocates, provides support for, and cultivates an inclusive COMMUNITY for blacks in veterinary medicine at every level of the profession through the organization, members, and leadership.
Minority-Owned Certifications
Why become a certified minority-owned business? The answer is simple: access to government contracts and more. Government entities have goals to do business with minority-owned companies and use certification programs to manage their supplier pools. Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certifications are often required to be eligible for government grants, contracts, programs and resources. If you are a U.S. citizen and at least 51% of your business is minority owned, then consider taking this step.
Each local government (county, city, school district) also has their own certification program. Some may accept certifications of other governments on a reciprocal agreement. Following is a list of national and state certifications. Contact the purchasing or supplier diversity department of the local governments with whom you want to do business.
Each local government (county, city, school district) also has their own certification program. Some may accept certifications of other governments on a reciprocal agreement. Following is a list of national and state certifications. Contact the purchasing or supplier diversity department of the local governments with whom you want to do business.
The SBA’s 8(a) Business Development program is used to meet the federal government’s goal of awarding at least 5% of all federal contracting dollars to small disadvantaged businesses annually. It is a robust nine-year program created to help firms owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Businesses that participate in the program receive training and technical assistance designed to strengthen their ability to compete effectively in the American economy. This certification is free of charge. Click here for qualifications and more information on the program.
Florida SBDCs offer access to confidential, no-cost professional business consulting for Floridians who want to grow their business. Click here for more information on Florida SBDC’s Professional Business Consulting services.
Florida SBDCs offer access to confidential, no-cost professional business consulting for Floridians who want to grow their business. Click here for more information on Florida SBDC’s Professional Business Consulting services.
State Government Program through The Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD). This certification is available at no cost. Click here for more information.
National certifications can help minority entrepreneurs gain new business from the private sector. Certification is available for an annual fee for qualifying minority owned businesses. Click here for more information.
The DBE Certification Program is a Federal Program designed for business owners deemed “socially and economically disadvantaged.” This certification is available at no cost. Click here for details.
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) manages the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program through a unified certification program (UCP). The purpose of the ACDBE program is to increase opportunities for minority and women-owned small businesses to operate as concessionaires in airports around the country. Interested business owners should reach out to their local unified certification program member listed here.
Resources, Funding & Programs
– Florida Organization
Educational Programming
Programming offered through organizations to help start and grow your business.
African American Entrepreneurs Association (AAEA)
An association providing capital, education, mentoring, workshops, and additional support to assist entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses. Find additional resources here.
AT&T Supplier Diversity Programs
A program offering diverse business executive/senior leader scholarships for educational support, executive training programs, workshops, seminars, and one-on-one counseling. AT&T also provides the Business Growth Acceleration Program (BGAP), which is an initiative to mentor diverse-owned businesses to improve their business operations and enhance their abilities to win corporate contracts.
Axis Helps Miami
An organization providing financial assistance, training, and events to small business owners in Miami.
Black Founders
An organization that empowers entrepreneurs and provides founders with access to advice, mentorship, and funding. Its goal is to create an ecosystem that stimulates tech entrepreneurship and fosters economic growth in the community. The vision for Black Founders is to develop global programs that equip entrepreneurs, inspire innovation, and allow the organization to share resources and knowledge.
Black Girl Ventures
An organization providing funding, connections, and training to Black woman-identifying founders. It also hosts pitch competitions for entrepreneurs.
By Black Program and Certification
A certification provided by By Black in partnership with the U.S. Black Chambers allowing access to USBC events, conferences, and educational opportunities.
Center for Black Innovation
The Center for Black Innovation drives change by providing exposure to innovation pathways, scaling black innovation ecosystems, diversifying existing innovation ecosystems with data-driven policies, and research, with strategic long-term actions to solve the greatest funding challenges blocking Black prosperity.
Central County Community Development Corporation
As a subsidiary of the Urban League of Broward County, the organization creates thriving communities through small business support, access to capital, and housing development.
Chase for Business
Chase initiative provide education, coaching and banking solutions to minority entrepreneurs.
Comcast Rise
As many small businesses shift from pandemic recovery to long-term sustainability, the next evolution of the program will focus on helping businesses of all types accelerate growth, while continuing to focus on diversity, inclusion, and community investment. Its offerings will include complimentary marketing, technology, financial grants, business consulting, entrepreneurship training, and other services.
CVM Solutions with Supplier.io
A free diverse supplier management platform where businesses register once and are provided with exclusive access to organizations who are looking to buy the types of goods and services that businesses provide.
Enterprise Florida Business Minority and Small Business, Entrepreneurship and Capital (MaSBEC)
A Florida economic development organization providing training, development, and financial assistance to small and minority businesses.
Florida Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
SBDC assists Florida entrepreneurs by offering professional expertise, tools, and other opportunities.
Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council
An organization certifying Florida minority-owned businesses and providing other assistance.
Grow with Google
U.S. Black Chambers partnered with Google to provide training and support to enhance Black-owned businesses’ online presence.
MLK Economic Development Corporation’s Business Center
One of the MLKEDC’s purposes is to assist and support corporations and organizations for charitable, scientific, or educational purposes. The MLK Business Center located on Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., provides opportunities for business ownership, employment, and valuable services to families and individuals in the Liberty City community. Its kitchen incubator program provides licensing, business development, start-up cost and food production certification assistance for restaurants and catering companies.
Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust: Small Business and Economic Development
MDEAT ensures the equitable participation of Blacks in Miami-Dade County’s economic growth through advocacy and monitoring of economic conditions and economic development initiatives in Miami-Dade County. MDEAT helps small businesses with grants, an engagement education series, and other resources.
Minority Business Development Agency
A federal agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce aimed at growing the global competitiveness of minority business enterprises by providing access to capital, contracts, and markets.
Minority Enterprise Development Corp.
Brings together diverse men and women business owners to provide opportunities for them to grow personally and professionally, empowering minority entrepreneurs to succeed through education and meaningful connections. The organization provides customized workshops and access to minority business specialists and purchasing agents of corporations and municipalities.
National Black MBA Association
An organization offering educational, wealth building, and growth opportunities. It also hosts an annual conference.
Opa-Locka Community Development Corporation Business Fund
The OLCDC Business Fund supports small minority-owned businesses located in low-to-moderate income communities in South Florida. It does this by providing technical assistance in the form of one-on-one counselling and workshops, as well as alternative financing options.
Operation Hope – 1MBB
Aiming to start, grow, and scale 1 million Black businesses by 2030 to provide a successful path to wealth creation for the black community. It provides educational and other opportunities to Black businesses.
South Florida’s Black Professionals Network
With over 15,000 professionals connected, this organization offers networking, marketing, partnering, and sub-contracting benefits to its members.
Space Called Tribe
A Space Called Tribe is a culturally intelligent collaborative shared office/co-working space and urban innovation lab that is community centered, while connecting underserved high growth entrepreneurs, startups, and creatives. It provides comfortable workspace, a knowledgeable community, and resources to support the growth of your ideas into viable endeavors.
State of Florida Office of Supplier Diversity
Advocates for women-, minority- and veteran-owned businesses by hosting events, providing educational resources, and certifying businesses.
Technical Assistance for Small Business Program
Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce Technical Assistance Program promotes economic wealth in the small minority and black business communities in Miami-Dade County through the following initiatives: 1-on-1 consulting, free bi-monthly forums/workshops, certification, and bi-monthly networking activities.
The Black Upstart
An organization providing various educational resources for Black entrepreneurs.
Tools for Change
Tools for Change promotes and participates in community economic development initiatives targeted to primarily assist low to moderate income black entrepreneurs in Miami Dade County. It offers a combination of micro loans, small business services, technical assistance, and business education that is designed to meet all the needs of underserved entrepreneurs.
– Florida Organization
African American Entrepreneurs Association (AAEA)
The association provides capital, education, mentoring, workshops, and additional support to assist entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses. Find additional resources here.
Axis Helps Miami
An organization providing financial assistance, training, and events to small business owners in Miami.
Backstage Capital
A venture capital fund that invests in companies led by people of color and other minorities.
Black Ambition
A nonprofit initiative investing capital and resources in high-growth startups led by Black and Latinx entrepreneurs to help close the opportunity and wealth gap.
Black Business Investment Fund (BBIF)
A Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), private non-profit loan fund that specializes in providing loans and financial technical assistance services to Black, minority and underserved small businesses throughout Florida.
Black Enterprise – Black Business Development Town Hall
A Black Enterprise webinar recording discussing creating greater access to capital and contracts.
Black Girl Ventures
An organization providing funding, connections, and training to Black woman-identifying founders. It also hosts pitch competitions for entrepreneurs.
Coalition to Back Black Businesses
An initiative partnered with American Express to offer grants, financial assistance, and long-term support to small Black-owned businesses.
Collab Capital
An organization offering funding and assistance to decrease the racial wealth gap.
Comcast Rise
As many small businesses shift from pandemic recovery to long-term sustainability, the next evolution of the program will focus on helping businesses of all types accelerate growth, while continuing to focus on diversity, inclusion, and community investment. Its offerings will include complimentary marketing, technology, financial grants, business consulting, entrepreneurship training, and other services.
Community Fund of North Miami Dade
An organization providing affordable loans and other information to minority and women-owned businesses in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami Dade counties.
Enterprise Florida Business Minority and Small Business, Entrepreneurship and Capital (MaSBEC)
Florida economic development organization providing training, development, and financial assistance to small and minority businesses.
FAMU Federal Credit Union
A credit union offering financial services to its members. Membership is open to FAMU Alumni, FAMU students, and members/employees of the various organizations listed here.
Florida Black Business Loan Program – Department of Economic Opportunity
The program uses loan administrators to provide loans or investments to black business enterprises that cannot obtain capital through conventional lending institutions.
Goldman Sachs – One Million Black Women
An initiative to invest funds to help narrow opportunity gaps facing Black women. Two programs are offered: Black Women Impact Grants and One Million Black Women.
MBCC Accreditation Program
The Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) Accreditation Program is an evaluation process used to identify MBCC businesses that have been verified by the organization to be in good standing and meet basic business criteria. Successful applicants will have access to capital to expand and grow their business.
Miami Bayside Foundation
An organization providing access to funds for minority entrepreneurs.
Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust: Small Business and Economic Development
MDEAT the equitable participation of Blacks in Miami-Dade County’s economic growth through advocacy and monitoring of economic conditions and economic development initiatives in Miami-Dade County. MDEAT helps small businesses with grants, ad engagement education series, and other resources.
The Miami Foundation – Miami Open for Business
Fueled by a $20 million grant from Wells Fargo, the Miami Open for Business program aims to empower historically underserved nonprofits and small businesses to build generational wealth and resilience through the purchase and ownership of critical business assets, such as property, equipment, and technology.
Minority Business Development Agency
A federal agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce aimed at growing the global competitiveness of minority business enterprises by providing access to capital, contracts, and markets.
Minority/Women Entrepreneur Business Assistance (MEBA) Program
The MEBA Program can provide qualified new and existing businesses (retail and services) within downtown Orlando with both non-monetary and financial assistance for start-up or retention/relocation expenses, purchase of capital equipment, capital improvements, and marketing support.
MLK Economic Development Corporation’s Kitchen Incubator
The MLKEDC’s Kitchen Incubator program provides licensing assistance, business development assistance, start-up cost assistance, and certified food production benefits to restaurants and catering companies in the Miami area.
Office of Economic and Small Business Development – Broward County
The Office of Economic and Small Business Development provides financial assistance to businesses in Broward County.
Opa-Locka Community Development Corporation Business Fund
The OLCDC Business Fund supports small minority-owned businesses located in low-to-moderate income communities in South Florida. It provides technical assistance in the form of one-on-one counselling and workshops, as well as alternative financing options.
Small Business Loan Fund – Broward County
A community development financial institution (CDFI) making access to credit more readily available to minority-owned businesses in Florida. The institution is partnered with the Urban League of Broward County and Wells Fargo to provide the Dream Fund and also offers technical assistance for small business development.
Tampa Bay Black Business Investment Corp (TBBBIC)
A U.S. Treasury certified Community Development Entity dedicated to providing business and funding opportunities for the long-term growth and success of small businesses.
Tools for Change
Promotes and participates in community economic development initiatives targeted to primarily assist low to moderate income black entrepreneurs in Miami Dade County, Florida. Tools for Change offers a combination of micro loans, small business services, technical assistance, and business education that is designed to meet all the needs of underserved entrepreneurs.
West Palm Beach Office of Small and Minority/Women Business Programs
Offers certification tips, a loan recovery assistance program, and other opportunities to West Palm Beach Businesses. Loan recovery assistance program information can be found here.
– Florida Organization
Accelerate Central Florida
This hands-on program from the African American Chamber of Commerce Central Florida provides the knowledge and know-how business owners need to create (and manage) a customized, three-year strategic growth plan.
Accenture Black Founders Development Program
Accenture launched the Black Founders Development Program to help Black entrepreneurs advance and grow their enterprise technology businesses through greater, more direct access to venture capital, corporate mentorship, and strategic connections with Accenture’s business partners, clients, and people.
Amazon Black Business Accelerator
Businesses can become a certified, Black-owned business on Amazon to get access to financial assistance, certifications, educational resources, and marketing and advertising support.
AT&T Supplier Diversity Programs
A program offering diverse business executives/senior leaders scholarships for educational support, executive training programs, workshops, seminars, and one-on-one counseling. AT&T also provides a Business Growth Acceleration Program (BGAP), which is an initiative to mentor diverse-owned businesses to improve their business operations and enhance their abilities to win corporate contracts.
Black Girl Ventures Change Agent Fellowship
A unique 9-month leadership skills development program created specifically to expand the capacity of early-stage entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders to strengthen the ecosystems of Black/Brown women founders.
Comcast Rise
As many small businesses shift from pandemic recovery to long-term sustainability, the next evolution of the program will focus on helping businesses of all types accelerate growth, while continuing to focus on diversity, inclusion, and community investment. Its offerings will include complimentary marketing, technology, financial grants, business consulting, entrepreneurship training, and other services.
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program at Miami Dade College
A program to help entrepreneurs create jobs and economic opportunity by providing greater access to education, capital, and business support services.
KuKua Startups on the Blocks
A project created to transform ideas, launch startups, create an inclusive environment, and provide mentoring and networking support. In addition to creating jobs, educating, and developing skills and talents, the project also promotes partnerships, fosters trust and collaboration, and creates a culture conducive to entrepreneurial success.
Lightship Bootcamp
A free, underrepresented founder education program with networking opportunities. Founders are also extended access to a investor network.
Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce Accreditation Program
The MBCC Accreditation Program is an evaluation process used to identify MBCC businesses verified by the organization to be in good standing and meet basic business criteria. Successful applicants will have access to capital to expand and grow their business.
Millionaire Mastermind Academy Entrepreneur Accelerator Program
An accelerator providing mentoring, training, and growth opportunities to minority business owners.
Minority/Women Entrepreneur Business Assistance (MEBA) Program
The MEBA Program can provide qualified new and existing businesses (retail and services) within downtown Orlando with both non-monetary and financial assistance for start-up or retention/relocation expenses, purchase of capital equipment, capital improvements. and marketing support.
MLK Economic Development Corporation’s Kitchen Incubator
The MLKEDC’s Kitchen Incubator program provides licensing, business development, start-up cost, and certified food production assistance to restaurants and catering companies in the Miami area.
SBDC and FAMU Small Business Incubator Program
The FSBDC will offer entrepreneurs and small business owners the support they need to combat the challenges inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic. More information and dates can be found on the Facebook page.
Tampa Bay Chamber Minority Business Accelerator
A program designed to help Black and Hispanic businesses prepare for growth. Qualification and application information can be found here. A Minority Empowerment Program is also offered here.
The Minority Fund – 60 Days to Success
An organization committed to helping minority-owned businesses obtain entrepreneur training and education through a 60-day program.
UCF Business Incubation Program
Assists entrepreneurs with launching startups and growing business by providing business development and operational support. Three programs are offered.
Center for Black Innovation – Your Venture Cultivated
The VCIR Accelerator, an 8-week program hosted by the Center for Black Innovation, is a program meant to level up the founders who have ventures they are passionate about. Before founders are ready to have capital conversations, their business must learn how to operate pre-capital. (2022 Program Recap)
Calendar of Events
Looking for opportunities to network with peers or find educational programming to help you build your business? Check out these workshops, training sessions, and programs for black entrepreneurs and business owners. Please note that some of these events are for all minority-owned businesses. If you know of an event that should be included, please contact us.
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Calendar of Events
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MWBE Re-certification Consultations
MWBE Re-certification Consultations
One-on-one consultations by appointment. Assistance provided for completing the re-certification process.
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Tech Beach Retreat – Miami
We’re more than just a summit; we are a catalyst for change, propelling the global tech ecosystem towards a more inclusive future. We connect people and organizations positioning to evolve […]
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MWBE Certification Workshop
MWBE Certification Workshop
Detailed information provided regarding the differences between Orange County and the City of Orlando's certification requirements. All forms are discussed in depth to assist business owner with submitting a COMPLETED […]
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Midday Insights: A Webinar Series for Lunchtime Learning and Networking Building black business communities, and foraging alliances and resources
Midday Insights: A Webinar Series for Lunchtime Learning and Networking Building black business communities, and foraging alliances and resources
Additional details and registration information is forthcoming.
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NMSDC Annual Conference & Exchange 2024
Hailed as the largest minority business conference in the world, the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) Annual Conference & Exchange includes four days of education and networking with over […]
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*Green bar indicates an all day event