It is charming when the government talks about how it is helping Black-owned businesses to grow. But in the world of facts, these Black-owned businesses are on the edge of survival.

Research by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York states that 41% of Black-owned businesses closed as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is the highest percentage among all racial groups in the USA and is a staggering figure not to be ignored. Something must be done immediately.

So, how is this problem solved?

By making the idea of business ownership a realistic possibility to Black individuals who typically would not have considered going into business for themselves.

Too often many Black individuals do not consider business ownership a possibility due to the misguided belief that business ownership requires a large initial capital investment, concerns of providing for their families while investing in a new venture or being told business ownership is too risky.

Other factors such as previous criminal behavior, past gang affiliation or even just being a single Mother may also play a role in making business ownership an option many Black people do not consider. Yet, business ownership is still a viable possibility.

In such a time of uncertainty, the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce brings its annual Job Fair and Business Expo to Long Beach, CA. Scheduled on June 11th, at the Renaissance Long Beach Hotel, the event will be hosted by Sharifah Hardie herself, and will offer job assistance and new business opportunities for the Long Beach Community.

The Job Fair and Business Expo will consist of seminars, workshops, panels and training to rebuild public interest in not only finding a job, but in sharing opportunities for business ownership. Sponsored by Long Beach Transit this event will be followed by a Black-Tie Awards Dinner and plenty of networking opportunities. Long Beach 8th District Councilman Al Austin and 9th District Vice Mayor Rex Richardson, both will be present to speak.

The Job Fair & Business Expo is free to attend and open to the public. Tickets are available to the Black Tie Awards Dinner at: BlackChamberofCommerce.org:

Location: Renaissance Long Beach Hotel, 111 East Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA

Date: June 11, 2022

Job Fair & Business Expo: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Awards Ceremony Dinner & Gala 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

For Speaker, Vendor or Sponsorship information contact Sharifah@BlackChamberofCommerce.org or at 888-466-7408 x 134