ATLANTIC CITY — The City of Atlantic City will host its first-ever Black Business Expo on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, as part of its recognition of National Black Business Month.

The event will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the All Wars Memorial Building, 1510 Adriatic Avenue, and is free and open to the public.

Organized by the City’s Department of Economic Development, with the support of Mayor Marty Small Sr., the expo will showcase dozens of local Black-owned businesses offering products and services. Attendees will have the chance to meet business owners, network with entrepreneurs, and learn about opportunities for economic growth and empowerment.

Focus on Empowerment and Support

As part of the city’s efforts to promote an environment of economic empowerment, officials will launch a new small business micro-grant fund prioritizing minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to making sure that all entrepreneurs — especially those who have been historically underrepresented — have access to the resources they need to thrive,” Mayor Small said.

The evening will feature panel discussions with both veteran and emerging entrepreneurs, highlighting pathways to success and addressing challenges faced by Black business owners. In addition, representatives from the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and the African American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware will join the program, furthering the conversation around regional economic empowerment.

Community Engagement

The expo offers more than business connections. It will provide opportunities for education, exposure, and direct assistance with small business micro-grant applications. Bruce Weekes from the City’s Department of Economic Development previewed the event during a recent interview on FM 91.7 WLFR’s The Light, encouraging the community to come out and support.

Honoring History

A historical exhibit curated by Ralph Hunter Sr., founder of the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, will highlight the long-standing contributions of Black businesses to Atlantic City’s economy. The event also includes participation from Dr. John E. Harmon Sr., founder and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey.

National Recognition

National Black Business Month, observed every August, recognizes the vital role Black-owned businesses play in local and national economies. Atlantic City’s inaugural expo is intended not only to celebrate that legacy but also to ensure a sustainable future for entrepreneurs across the city.

Thanks for reading the whole story!

At Atlantic City Focus, we're committed to providing a platform where the diverse voices of our community can be heard, respected, and celebrated. As an independent online news platform, we rely on a unique mix of affordable advertising and the support of readers like you to continue delivering quality, community journalism that matters. Please support the businesses and organizations that support us by clicking on their ads. By making a tax deductible donation today, you become a catalyst for change helping to amplify the authentic voices that might otherwise go unheard. And every contribution is greatly appreciated. Join us in making a difference—one uplifting story at a time!