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Our Story

The Black Entrepreneur State Fair was born out of a collective vision to create a transformative platform that celebrates, empowers, and uplifts Black entrepreneurs. Our story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep belief in the power of entrepreneurship to drive change and create opportunities.

Recognizing the immense talent and untapped potential within the Black community, we set out on a mission to provide a space where Black entrepreneurs could shine, connect, and thrive. We understood that systemic barriers and limited access to resources often hindered the growth of Black-owned businesses. It became our driving force to create an event that would break down those barriers and provide a launchpad for success.

The BESF believes together, we can heal, rebuild our communities and help bridge the financial gap.

Our History

The Black Entrepreneur State Fair was founded by sisters Destinee and Keandrea Shelby. The sisters knew they had a voice and could make a difference in their community.
 
During the tragic murder of George Floyd, the sisters took action. And as the riots took over the nights, each morning, the sisters built a team to bring food, water, and most importantly, a smiling, compassionate heart to those in need in their community.
 
They began to think about the need to bring all the small businesses together to build, create opportunity and provide social-economic stability to the community that had been burnt and destroyed into crumbled bricks.

Our Mission

The Black Entrepreneur State Fair is committed to empowering, celebrating, and promoting the talents, achievements, and economic growth of Black entrepreneurs. Our mission is to provide a dynamic platform that amplifies the voices and businesses of Black entrepreneurs, fosters community collaboration, and drives positive change within the Black entrepreneurial ecosystem.

We believe in the transformative power of entrepreneurship and its ability to create opportunities, build wealth, and inspire future generations. Our mission is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where Black entrepreneurs can thrive, connect with diverse audiences, and gain access to resources that fuel their success.

Through our fair, we aim to showcase the richness and diversity of Black entrepreneurship across various industries, including technology, fashion, arts, food, and beyond. We strive to create an immersive experience that encourages entrepreneurship, facilitates meaningful connections, and provides a space for innovation and collaboration.

Board Members

The board members, comprising entrepreneurs and community leaders, are dedicated to fostering opportunities for individuals in underserved communities.