About the Event

The Black Entrepreneurship Development Strategy (BEDS) Summit is a transformative initiative bringing together Black entrepreneurs, researchers, and ecosystem partners to define the future of Black entrepreneurship in Canada. Hosted by the Atlantic Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (A-BEKH), this summit is a critical step toward creating a comprehensive, community-driven development strategy.

With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and strategic planning, this event invites you to be a part of shaping the roadmap for Black business success.

Why Attend?

  • Contribute to the Strategy: Participate in dynamic breakout sessions to set priorities and develop actionable initiatives for the BEDS framework. 

  • Engage with Leaders: Network with Black entrepreneurs, researchers, and community leaders. 

  • Learn and Collaborate: Gain insights into the key pillars of the strategy, including financial access, capacity building, and market growth. 

  • Shape the Future: Help define goals, actions, and governance frameworks that will impact Black entrepreneurship in Canada for years to come.

Event Highlights

  • Interactive Breakout Sessions: Align priorities under strategic pillars like financial access, capacity building, policy advocacy, and innovation. 

  • Plenary Discussions: Share insights and finalize collective goals. 

  • Hybrid Accessibility: Attend in person or join virtually from anywhere. 

Who Should Attend?

  • Black entrepreneurs and business leaders 

  • Ecosystem partners and policymakers 

  • Researchers and academic institutions 

  • Advocates for Black entrepreneurship and innovation 

Location and Accessibility

- Venue: Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Saint Mary’s University, 923 Robie Street, Halifax, NS B3M 3M3 

- Virtual Option: Join online

Event Agenda

- 1:00 PM – 1:10 PM | Welcome Remarks, Harvi Millar Ph.D., P.Eng. (Atlantic Hub Coordinator)

- 1:10 PM – 1:20 PM | Welcome Remarks from the BEKH HQ

- 1:20 PM – 1:30 PM | Black Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness, Dr. Rustum Southwell

- 1:30 PM – 1:50 PM | Results from the Pre-Summit Survey, Harvi Millar Ph.D., P.Eng.

- 1:50PM – 2:00 PM | Instructions for Breakout sessions

- 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Setting Strategic Priorities and Actions - 7 Breakout Sessions

- 3:00 PM – 3:15 PM | Wellness Break

- 3:15 PM – 4:30 PM | Discussion of the Strategic Priorities and Initiatives in Plenary

- 4:30 PM – 4:50 PM | Operationalizing the Strategy - Next Steps

- 4:50 PM – 5:00 PM | Wrap Up and Closing Remarks

Secure Your Spot Today!

Partners and Sponsors

Hosted by the Atlantic Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (A-BEKH) in partnership with:

This summit represents a unique opportunity to collaborate, innovate, and build a sustainable future for Black entrepreneurship in Canada. Together, we can construct a strategy that drives meaningful change!