The Black Business Association of Memphis
What We Do
The BBA is missioned to improve the economic well-being of the Memphis region by developing successful entrepreneurs through education, advocacy, and business development. Creating and implementing innovative and strategic programs to propel Memphis professionals toward economic opportunities for growth and prosperity is paramount.
Memphis ReStart Initiative
Memphis ReStart is a multi-faceted initiative launched by the Black Business Association of Memphis (BBA) to focus on three areas: Talent, Acquisitions, and Talent Acquisitions.
Through the Memphis ReStart Initiative, the BBA is strategically working to connect Memphis professionals with viable business skills for advancement, business ventures, and executive placements in key local industries forecasted as high growth potential in the Memphis market, such as advanced manufacturing and technology enterprises.
On April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, for fighting for the rights of black workers. Fifty-three years later, Memphis has made little progress in creating economic growth opportunities to support cultural diversity throughout the local community.
Memphis is the urban hub for the 2nd poorest metropolitan area in the United States with a population of over one million people. According to the University of Memphis’ 2020 Memphis Poverty Fact Sheet, the poverty rate for Black Memphians is 26 percent — nearly three times higher than the poverty rate for Whites.
This rate is expected to grow with the damages of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy which has disproportionately impacted Black business owners and populations, revealing persistent vulnerabilities. Historical racial oppression and structural disparities require community-wide efforts and investments to dismantle and restart a more equitable and inclusive economy for all people.
Program Components
What to Expect
Talent: Next Level Leadership
The Next Level Leadership pillar of the Memphis ReStart Initiative by the Black Business Association of Memphis (BBA) is dedicated to empowering business owners and managers with the skills necessary to take their ventures to the next level. Designed to help both Memphis professionals and Memphis business professionals, participants gain valuable insights and knowledge from seasoned professionals, local employees, and industry experts. This comprehensive program provides access to resources and training in business planning, financial management, marketing, leadership, and more.
Acquisitions: Succession Solutions
Through the Succession Solutions pillar, business owners gain access to expert guidance on business succession planning, wealth creation strategies, and a wide range of resources. The BBA works closely with participants to develop sound strategies for long-term success, fostering economic growth and prosperity that promote cultural diversity in Memphis. Join us in harnessing the power of our business plan to create lasting wealth and opportunities in Memphis.
Talent Connections: BBA Talent Connect
Our BBA Talent Connect pillar is a premier talent acquisition and sourcing initiative designed to facilitate the strategic placement of Memphis professionals into career opportunities. Not only does this program aim to promote diverse hiring practices across various industries, but the BBA has also partnered with Matchplicity to provide a technology for this talent connection.
Listen to the vision and plan for BBA Memphis from our new president and CEO, Ernest Strickland.
Funding for Memphis ReStart Provided by U.S. Small Business Administration
Strategic Partnership with U.S. Small Business Administration
The Memphis ReStart Initiative is funded in part through a Grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.”
Get Started With the Memphis ReStart Initiative Today!
The Memphis ReStart Initiative, launched by the Black Business Association of Memphis, is a comprehensive program aimed at enhancing the economic well-being of the Memphis region. The BBA is committed to supporting cultural diversity in Memphis workplaces by equipping entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need for success.
Through innovative programs like BBA Talent Connect, the Memphis ReStart Initiative will continue to create opportunities for growth and prosperity within our local community. By joining forces with the Memphis ReStart Initiative, individuals and businesses alike can contribute to the collective economic advancement of the community, paving the way for a vibrant and prosperous future. Contact us to get started today!
*Funded in part through a Grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
