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Published on August 10, 2024
Miami-Dade County Marks National Black Business Month with New Initiatives to Support Local Black EntrepreneursSource: X/Miami-Dade Community Advocacy

In Miami-Dade County, the month of August takes on added significance as the community comes together to honor and uplift Black-owned businesses. This initiative, occurring during National Black Business Month, was marked by a launch event on August 1 at the Stephen P. Clark Center in Miami. A joint effort between various local organizations including the Miami-Dade County Black Affairs Advisory Board and the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust, the festivities represent a collective push to elevate Black entrepreneurship in the region.

The county's dedication to this cause was cemented in 2022 when commissioners passed a resolution to formally recognize August as “Black Business Month” in Miami-Dade. Various organizations across the county have planned events to showcase and support Black-owned businesses throughout the month. Interested individuals can easily find details about these events and to actively participate, as stated by the City of Miami-Dade.

According to the City of Miami-Dade, “We recognize the vital role that Black-owned businesses play in fostering economic growth, creating jobs, and enriching the cultural diversity that makes Miami-Dade unique. By empowering Black entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders, we’re not just investing in individual success stories; we’re building a stronger, more equitable community for everyone.”

The county's initiatives to bolster Black-owned businesses include funding training programs through partnerships with MDEAT and STRIVE305, alongside offering one-on-one coaching. Additionally, through the RISE Fund Initiative, $7.2 million in loans have been disbursed, thereby providing financial assistance to businesses across the county.                      

Individuals with disabilities are provided with equal access to programs, services, and activities and can request accommodations such as sign language interpreters or materials in accessible formats. The Office of Community Advocacy underlines the importance of a unified and inclusive community, hosting a variety of advisory boards including the Black Advisory Board and the Goodwill Ambassadors Program. To stay involved and informed, residents can follow the Board's social media channels or subscribe to their YouTube channel.

Miami-Community & Society