The 10th Annual Black Business Expo, which kicked off the first day of Black History Month, was a great success. Local entrepreneurs showcased their businesses and brands. The Expo, which works to foster community collaboration, economic education, networking, and customer growth, faced a slight bump in the road when volunteers withdrew last minute due to President Trump’s DEI executive order.
However, that didn’t stop event organizer Jasmin Smith from producing an all-inclusive tenth-anniversary expo. Smith even started the weekend event by thanking attendees for their support.
“Thank you for being here, and supporting our businesses,” said Smith.
This year’s event featured a powerhouse lineup of speakers, including FUBU co-founders J. Alexander Martin, Keith Perrin, and Carlton Brown, who spoke on the importance of giving back, persistence, mutual support in business, and protecting your brand.
“The power is in the paperwork,” said Antoine Tutt, Sales and Marketing Director for Coogi. “So the trademarking and also building your brand out, marketing your brand and also selling your brand because that brings in the revenue. So you can have your business keep going.”
Other speakers, including Sheley Secrest of Anderson Law and Regina Davenport of A Banner Vision, encouraged entrepreneurs to sharpen their craft and seek financial guidance when needed.
“Anyone is able to open up their business,” said Secrest. “Know what the needs are, provide that service, and do it so well that you will never be forgotten.”
“It’s okay to say, I don’t know. It’s not okay not to try to find out,” said Davenport. “Failure is not your business not making it. Failure is quitting before you even start.
While the Expo is only one day, there is still so much more Alaskans can look forward to, such as an after-party and fashion show at the Anchorage Museum, where local designers have the chance to showcase their work. The expo celebrated community-driven economic growth and inspired future entrepreneurs.
