Our Vision
To build a supportive community for local Black entrepreneurs.
OUR PROGRAMS
We've built programs to help empower local black businesses to thrive!
Learn about each of them below.
The Black Wall Street Institute is a cutting-edge digital program/product designed to provide aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals with the skills, knowledge, and network they need to succeed. Our mission is to empower and support members of the Black community as they build successful businesses, invest in their financial futures, and achieve their goals.
BWS Institute's comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Entrepreneurship: Learn the ins and outs of starting and running a successful business, from developing a business plan and securing funding to building a brand and creating a marketing strategy.
- Financial Literacy: Gain a deeper understanding of financial statements, manage cash flow, and develop a comprehensive financial plan to achieve your goals.
- Professional Development: Enhance your skills and expand your network through workshops, mentorship opportunities, and access to a community of like-minded individuals.
- Community Building: Connect with other entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals and build meaningful relationships to support each other on your journeys.
Throughout the program, you'll receive hands-on instruction from experienced entrepreneurs and business experts, as well as opportunities to network with like-minded individuals and make meaningful connections. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, the Black Wall Street Asheville Institute is the ideal platform for launching your entrepreneurial journey.
The masterclass is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the key concepts and skills that are essential for success in the world of business. Each week, we will explore a different topic, ranging from market research and product development to sales and marketing, financial management, and more. The program is structured in a way that is accessible and easy to understand, making it suitable for people at all levels of business experience, from beginners to experienced entrepreneurs.
Schedule: Monday Night 7PM EST
The masterclass is scheduled to take place every Monday at 7 PM EST. Our experienced instructors will lead the sessions, drawing on their own business expertise and real-world experience to provide practical insights and advice. Participants will also have the opportunity to network with other Bipoc entrepreneurs and business owners, sharing their experiences and learning from each other.
The Black Wall Street Asheville Bootcamp is a unique, intensive program designed to provide aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners with the skills, knowledge, and network they need to succeed. Over the course of three days, participants will delve into a range of topics, including:
The Business of Entrepreneurship
- Understanding the entrepreneurial mindset
- Developing a business plan
- Raising capital and securing funding
- Building a brand and creating a marketing strategy
Operations and Growth
- Understanding financial statements and managing cash flow
- Developing and implementing effective systems and processes
- Growing and scaling your business
- Navigating legal and regulatory issues
Networking and Pitch Practice
- Building a strong network and developing relationships with mentors and investors
- Refining your pitch and communicating your vision effectively
- Practicing your pitch in front of a panel of experienced entrepreneurs and investors
Throughout the program, participants will receive hands-on instruction from experienced entrepreneurs and business experts, as well as opportunities to network with like-minded individuals and make meaningful connections. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, the Black Wall Street Asheville Bootcamp is the ideal platform for launching your entrepreneurial journey.
The Event Space of Black Wall Street in Asheville is a community venue designed to provide a platform for black entrepreneurs, artists, and community organizations to host events, workshops, and meetings. The event space is located in a central location in Asheville and is available for rental on a regular basis.
The main goal of the Event Space of Black Wall Street is to provide a safe, inclusive, and affordable venue for members of the black community to come together, network, and showcase their talents and businesses. The event space is equipped with modern amenities and technology, making it suitable for a wide range of events, from large-scale conferences to intimate workshops.
In addition to providing a space for events, the Event Space of Black Wall Street also offers support and resources to help organizations and individuals host successful and impactful events. This includes assistance with event planning and marketing, access to equipment and technology, and on-site support from venue staff.
The Black Wall Street Institute Jr. is a program that provides a platform for young entrepreneurs in Asheville, North Carolina. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of business leaders, and to support the growth and success of young entrepreneurs in the community.
The program is led by experienced instructors who are passionate about helping young entrepreneurs succeed. Each session will provide hands-on, experiential learning opportunities, and participants will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and business challenges. In addition, participants will have the chance to network with other young entrepreneurs, and to hear from guest speakers who are successful business leaders in the community.
At the Black Wall Street Institute Jr., we believe that young people have the potential to make a positive impact on the world through entrepreneurship. By providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed, we aim to help young entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful businesses, and to support the growth and development of the next generation of business leaders in Asheville.
Black Wall Street Asheville is a thriving community of Black entrepreneurs and businesses, dedicated to promoting economic empowerment and supporting one another. One of the key initiatives of Black Wall Street Asheville is the creation of industry-specific cohorts, aimed at fostering growth and collaboration within specific industries.
Tourism Cohorts
Tourism Cohort is composed of Black-owned tour operators, travel agencies, and cultural organizations. This group is dedicated to promoting Asheville as a top destination for Black tourists, showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Black community in the area. Members of this cohort work together to create unique and engaging tours and experiences for visitors, highlighting the best of what Asheville has to offer.
Food Industry Cohorts
Food Cohort, which includes Black-owned restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. This group is focused on elevating the profile of Black cuisine in Asheville and promoting the delicious and diverse offerings of Black-owned food establishments.
Through regular events and collaborations, members of this cohort aim to build a strong and connected community of Black food businesses and to promote their offerings to a wider audience.
Hospitality Industry Cohorts
Hospitality Cohort is composed of Black-owned hotels, bed and breakfasts, and other accommodation providers. This group is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive hospitality industry in Asheville, offering guests a truly authentic and culturally rich experience.
Members of this cohort are not limited to hotel owners but also, service, and product suppliers such as Arts and Crafts shops - who work together to raise the profile of Black-owned hospitality businesses and to promote their services to a growing market of travelers looking for unique and meaningful experiences.
Artist Cohorts
Artist Industry Cohort is a group of talented and creative Black artists, musicians, and performers. This cohort is dedicated to promoting and showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the Black community in Asheville, providing a platform for artists to connect, collaborate, and share their work with a wider audience.
Whether it's through musical performances, visual arts exhibitions, or other creative endeavors, the Artist Industry Cohort is at the forefront of promoting and supporting Black creativity in Asheville.
Together, these four industry-specific cohorts represent the heart of Black Wall Street Asheville, demonstrating the strength and resilience of the Black community in this region. Whether you're a traveler, foodie, artist, or in the hospitality industry.
Sunday Brunch experience on Black Wall Street is a celebration of community, culture, and cuisine, where entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals come together to network, connect, and enjoy delicious food and drinks in a relaxed and elegant setting.
Event features:
- A spread of culinary delights, including savory breakfast dishes, fresh pastries, and juicy mimosas.
- Opportunities to network and connect with like-minded individuals, including entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals.
- Inspiring keynote speeches and panel discussions from accomplished entrepreneurs, business leaders, and thought leaders.
- A festive and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for socializing, networking, and having a good time.
The Sunday Brunch event at Black Wall Street AVL is more than just a meal – it's a platform for building meaningful relationships and supporting each other's business endeavors. Whether you're looking to make new connections, learn from accomplished entrepreneurs, or just enjoy a delicious brunch, you won't want to miss this exciting event.
The PopUp Market of Black Wall Street in Asheville is a community event that aims to highlight and support local black-owned businesses. The event takes the form of a pop-up market, where vendors can sell their products and services to the public. The event is held regularly, usually on weekends, at a central location in Asheville.
The main goal of the PopUp Market of Black Wall Street is to provide a platform for black entrepreneurs and small business owners to showcase their products and services, and to connect with potential customers and partners. By creating a space where black businesses can come together and share their offerings, the market helps to build community, raise awareness of the contributions of black entrepreneurs, and drive economic growth in the black community.
The PopUp Market of Black Wall Street is open to all vendors, regardless of their race or ethnicity, as long as their products or services align with the market's mission and values. Vendors can participate in the market by applying to be a part of the event and paying a fee, which helps to cover the cost of running the market and supporting local black-owned businesses.
The Black Wall Street Asheville Black History Awards is an event that celebrates and recognizes the contributions of individuals, organizations, and businesses in the Black community in Asheville and the surrounding areas. This event aims to showcase the achievements and accomplishments of Black leaders and influencers and to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Black community.
The goal of this program is to honor and recognize the contributions in Asheville and the surrounding areas. It is a way to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Black community. Educating the public about the achievements and accomplishments of Black leaders and influencers, and lastly to foster a sense of pride and community among Black residents and businesses in Asheville.
Open nominations and awards are given to four different categories as follows:
- Community Leader Award
- Business Trailblazer Award
- Outstanding Elder Award
- Young Emerging Leader Award
With this event, we expect an increase of visibility and recognition for the achievements and contributions of Black individuals, organizations, and businesses in Asheville and the surrounding areas. It gives us a day of celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Black community, and a sense of pride and community among Black residents and businesses in Asheville. It will be a memorable and successful tradition that will be repeated in the future.
Black Wall Street Asheville GrindFest is a festival that aims to celebrate and support the Black community in Asheville and the surrounding areas. This festival brings together local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community members to showcase their talents, products, and services. The event also serves as a platform to educate the public about the importance of Black economic empowerment and the history of Black Wall Street.
Objectives:
- To provide a space for Black-owned businesses to showcase their products and services.
- To promote and support Black entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
- To educate the public about the history of Black Wall Street and its significance.
- To foster a sense of community and unity among Black residents and businesses in Asheville.
Outcome:
- Increased visibility and support for Black-owned businesses in Asheville
- Increased awareness of the importance of Black economic empowerment and entrepreneurship
- A stronger sense of community among Black residents and businesses in Asheville
- A successful and memorable event that will be repeated in the future
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