Transform Your Business Journey at the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Business Symposium
🗓️ DATE: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 – June 21, 2025
🎟️ REGISTRATION: Purchase My Ticket(s)
Every successful business begins with a story. A vision. A dream that someone dared to pursue despite the odds. This Juneteenth, we invite you to write the next chapter of your entrepreneurial story alongside a community that believes in your potential and is committed to your success.
The Black Chamber Fort Wayne proudly presents our 3rd Annual Juneteenth Business Symposium – five transformative days designed to empower, educate, and elevate Black business owners and entrepreneurs across our region. This isn’t just another business conference; it’s your gateway to the knowledge, connections, and resources that will propel your business forward.
Our Venues
Why This Matters to Your Business Story
In a world where access to capital, mentorship, and networks can determine the trajectory of your business, we’re creating a space where barriers are broken down and opportunities are built up. Our symposium brings together industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and community leaders who understand your journey because they’ve walked similar paths.
Event Schedule
Tuesday, June 17th
Business Options During A Recession
Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Grand Wayne Center •
Evening Session: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Urban League
Presenter: Bill Causey, SCORE
Navigate economic uncertainty with confidence. Learn proven strategies for maintaining and growing your business during challenging times, including pivoting strategies, cost management, and identifying recession-proof revenue streams.
Wednesday, June 18th
Access to Capital
Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Grand Wayne Center •
Evening Session: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Urban League
Presenter: Eric Ogle, Brightpoint
Unlock the secrets to securing funding for your business. Learn about various funding options, how to prepare compelling loan applications, and strategies for building relationships with lenders and investors.
Thursday, June 19th – Juneteenth Day
Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI): Financial Services for the Underserved
Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Grand Wayne Center •
Presenter: Diane Starks, Urban Beginnings Choice Federal Credit Union
Discover alternative funding sources designed specifically for underserved communities. Learn how CDFIs can provide the capital and financial services traditional banks may not offer, including microloans, business development support, and community investment opportunities.
2025 Rolland Lecture
Afternoon Session: 3:00 PM | Main Library Theater •
Topic: “A Panel Discussion About How the Emancipation Proclamation Came to Indiana”
This annual educational event is organized by the Friends of the Lincoln Collection and features a panel discussion about how the Emancipation Proclamation specifically came to Indiana. This lecture provides historical context for the local community’s understanding of emancipation and freedom heritage.
Financial Literacy Workshop
Evening Session: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Fort Wayne Urban League •
Presenters: Edward Jones & 1st Source Bank
Master the fundamentals of business financial management, from cash flow optimization to investment strategies that will secure your business’s future.
Friday, June 20th
Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI): Financial Services for the Underserved
Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Grand Wayne Center •
Presenter: Diane Starks, Urban Beginnings Choice Federal Credit Union
Discover alternative funding sources designed specifically for underserved communities. Learn how CDFIs can provide the capital and financial services traditional banks may not offer, including microloans, business development support, and community investment opportunities.
Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI): Financial Services for the Underserved
Evening Session: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Urban League •
Presenter: Charles Gilbert, Black Onyx Management
Discover alternative funding sources designed specifically for underserved communities. Learn how CDFIs can provide the capital and financial services traditional banks may not offer, including microloans, business development support, and community investment opportunities.
Saturday, June 21st
Cashflow
Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Grand Wayne Center •
Presenter: Ramadan Abdul-Azeez, Black Chamber Fort Wayne
Learn proven strategies for optimizing cash flow, managing seasonal fluctuations, and building financial resilience from a leader who has helped position Fort Wayne as 5th in the nation for Black-owned business growth
Invest in Your Success
Registration
This symposium isn’t just about learning – it’s about joining a community that celebrates your ambitions, supports your growth, and believes in your success. Whether you’re launching your first business or scaling an established enterprise, you’ll leave with practical tools, meaningful connections, and renewed confidence in your entrepreneurial journey.
Ready to elevate your business story? Your community is waiting to support you. To register for this event, please visit the registration page or click the button below. For more information, call 260-366-6333 or email us at Talk2us@myfwbcc.org.
🎟️ Ticket Pricing
- $50 – Chamber Members
- $75 – Non-Members
To Our Champion
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Google for their generous sponsorship, along with our other sponsors and community partners who make this transformative event possible. Their commitment to supporting Black-owned businesses reflects the collaborative spirit that drives our community forward.
About the Organizer
Black Chamber Fort Wayne
The Black Chamber Fort Wayne, led by Board President Ramadan Abdul-Azeez, is dedicated to fostering the growth and success of Black-owned businesses in the Fort Wayne community. The Chamber helps entrepreneurs and professionals build valuable connections and access essential resources through networking events, advocacy, and educational opportunities. The Chamber is committed to creating a thriving environment for Black business leaders to flourish and contribute to the region’s economic vitality.
The Fort Wayne Black Chamber of Commerce
© Black Chamber Fort Wayne, 2025. All rights reserved
