Celebrating Black History Month | Moderated Panel Discussion & Networking

The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Turner Center for Entrepreneurship and at Bradley University invites you to Celebrate Black History Month with us as we highlight Black-owned small businesses right here in Central Illinois. Starting a business is not easy, and Black entrepreneurs face unique challenges. Let us recognize and visit with several who are finding their way to success. We are excited to feature a panel of five local entrepreneurs in a discussion led by our moderator. This in-person event is offered at no cost. Hear about the entrepreneurial journeys of five local Black business owners: What inspired them to start their businesses? What obstacles have they overcome? What challenges remain? What resources have they discovered along the way? What sets them apart from their competitors? What innovation or impact makes them most proud of their business? What are they working on next? Additional questions from the audience Who should attend? New or prospective small business owners of all backgrounds Entrepreneurs seeking to network with other entrepreneurs and resource partners Everyone who wants to learn about and celebrate the success of Black small business owners! Attendees will gain a perspective on entrepreneurship in our community that is often overlooked. Together we will learn about challenges that exist and ways these small business owners have worked over, around, or through various obstacles on their way to business success. Moderator: Kevin Evans, Founder, Kevin Evans & Associates, an economic development “consulting company. Panelists: Several local Black Entrepreneurs sharing their experience. Informal networking reception to follow the discussion Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of our panelists and network with other entrepreneurs and collaborators. Light refreshments will be served. In order to plan refreshments, registration is requested by Friday, February 21, 2025. Space is limited, register now! Registration information will be shared with training partners. Cosponsored by: Minority Business Development Center, Peoria NEXT Innovation Center, SCORE Peoria