Black people are 22% of NYC's population.
We own less than 2% of its businesses and we receive less than 2% of NYC and NYS agency contracts.
BREAKING NEWS:
The growth of Black-owned businesses has a direct impact on reducing unemployment, homelessness and crime. The financial state of Black-owned businesses directly correlates to the quality of life for our children, families, and community. A Black Business Empowerment Forum – No More Excuses was held in Harlem on Friday, December 13th, 2019 and follow-up focus group sessions were held in Harlem on Saturday, February 22, 2020. This website and all of the initiatives put forth herein represent the outcome of a community’s economic vision for itself in an act of self-determination. The aim is to develop and grow financially sustainable Black businesses in New York City from 2% to 22% by 2022.
It is our expectation that those elected to represent the districts in which we live at the city and state levels will consider our needs over others and endeavor to put forth legislation, policies and the capital dollars needed to remove the structural roadblocks that prevent Black-owned businesses and organizations from obtaining substantive contracts and funding at New York’s State and City levels.
WEG is currently working with our Primary Partners to develop and deliver a plan for Black Business Empowerment to those seeking elected office in 2020. By doing so, WEG seeks to arm elected officials and leaders with a strategic action plan and reparative measures for rapidly repositioning Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs for accelerated economic growth and development. No more excuses and talk about the data—WEG demands action now!