The economic development of the Black community is essential to the economic growth and stability of any city, including Memphis. That's because both in Memphis and across the country, economic disparities between the white, Black, and MWBE communities are well documented, yet there still continue to be gaps in economic wealth and opportunity among minority groups.

Part of the way we can support the Memphis economy, along with Black business development, is by supporting local Black- and women-owned businesses and restaurants. This month, we can celebrate both Memphis Black Restaurant Week and Women’s History Month. These heritage months provide us with an excellent opportunity to show our support for the Black and women-owned businesses that power Memphis' economy.

At the Black Business Association of Memphis (BBA), we are proud to create economic opportunities within our local economy. Black business development can have a tremendous impact on the Memphis community, which is why we remain committed to providing leadership development and growth opportunities through programs like Memphis ReStart Initiative. Join the BBA, become part of our Black wealth initiative, and this month, grab a meal at a local Black-owned restaurant or shop at a women-owned business.

When it comes to leadership development, the Black Business Association of Memphis (BBA) is committed to helping Black business owners and managers build their leadership skills and grow Black wealth in the Memphis community. Part of that is accomplished through our Memphis ReStart Initiative, which focuses on leadership development as one of the three pillars: Talent, Acquisitions, and Talent Connections.

The first pillar of the initiative, Talent, is focused on Next-Level Leadership. At BBA, we believe that leadership is the key to unlocking the potential for Black economic prosperity and growth. Through Next-Level Leadership, we provide comprehensive leadership training programs that empower aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources needed for successful leadership.

At BBA, we are passionate about empowering Black business owners within our Memphis community. Providing Black business owners and entrepreneurs with leadership skills is crucial in promoting Black economic development. Join BBA and our Memphis Restart Initiative and help us support Black economic development through our commitment to leadership development.

The Black Business Association of Memphis (BBA) has a long-standing history of advocating for and propelling MWBEs in the City of Memphis towards economic opportunities, including business ownership. Founded in 1974, the BBA is now one of the oldest and largest trade associations both in Memphis and the Mid-South.

In order to further our mission, our dedicated team has implemented numerous initiatives over the years with the latest one being our Memphis ReStart Initiative. The primary mission of this new multi-facet initiative is to focus on the areas of talent, acquisitions, and talent acquisitions for Black-owned businesses and Black individuals in the Memphis market.

Through this newest initiative, and our overall mission to build and increase wealth in the Black Community in Memphis, our team continues to strive for economic growth, expansion, and opportunity for the Memphis community as a whole. From the civil rights events that led up to the genesis and growth of Black businesses to our own inception nearly four decades ago, we at the BBA will continue to fight for economic opportunities for MWBEs and all of Memphis.

Today, we are excited to be leading our new Memphis ReStart Initiative, along with the guidance of Alan Gumbel, our new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Dive into the history of the BBA, along with the powerful events that have laid the foundation for our work, and see how we are helping to propel Memphis towards economic development.

BBA Member Spotlight: Cathy_Braidz – Specializing in healthy, beautiful hair and positive hair experiences! Check her out and make an appointment today: cathybraidz.com #bbamemphis #bbafreshfinds #nationalblkbiz #NationalBlackBusinessMonth #SupportSmallBusiness #supportblackbusiness

August is National Black Business Month, take a moment to recognize our community’s Black-owned businesses!! Nationwide, these businesses employ more than 3.5 million people! #BlackOwnedBusiness #bbamemphis #nationalblackbusinessmonth #supportblackbusiness

Procurement Opportunity with Memphis, Light Gas & Water!! This project has also been posted to MLG&W’s Online Bid Notification System @ www.mlgw.com/bids. Good Luck to all who apply!!