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Closing the racial wealth gap requires systemic change. Change starts here.
At the Michigan Black Business Alliance, we proactively advocate for policies that result in thriving Black businesses.
The need to advocate for Black businesses in Michigan is all too real. According to the Brookings Institute, only 2.7% of businesses are Black-owned, despite making up roughly 14% of the total population.
The racial wealth gap hurts the entire economy-– not just Black businesses. By closing the gaps in economic equity that have historically limited Black people from full participation in the economy, the region's economy has the potential to grow by as much as 12% and generate an additional $28 billion annually.
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Click here to become a part of our Membership Action Team!
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Opportunities to Engage
TRUTH TO POWER
Our Truth to Power conversations are quarterly opportunities for policymakers to organically connect with Black business owners. Previous guests include Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, Attorney General Dana Nessel, Detroit City Councilman James Tate, Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, and Mayor Mike Duggan.
STATE OF BLACK BUSINESS LUNCHEON
The Alliance hosts an annual luncheon with elected officials from across the state and other small business stakeholders. The luncheon provides an opportunity for business, political, and academic leaders to collaboratively discuss ways to support Black businesses.
BLACK BUSINESS ADVOCACY DAY IN LANSING
Once a year, the Alliance facilitates a legislative advocacy day in Lansing that allows our members to have the opportunity to communicate directly with legislators with a collective voice. Our advocacy day includes meetings with legislators, staff, and other organizations that are working to reduce the racial wealth gap.
MACKINAC POLICY CONFERENCE RECEPTION
Each year, the Alliance hosts a mixer at the only Black-owned restaurant on the island, Kingston Kitchen, where policy makers and business leaders come together to network and build coalition.