Black Business Initiative

The BBI is committed to growing a Black presence in a diverse range of business sectors including high-tech, manufacturing, tourism, and the cultural sector. The four main components of the BBI are: Strategic Planning for Communities Operating the Black Business Centre Regional Business Development A Loan Fund Fulfilling its commitment means the BBI supports its clients in the following ways: Providing support in setting up a business structure. Providing financial assistance by partnering with our Loan and Development Funds, and by assisting in accessing other funding sources. Assisting in the development of a business plan, marketing plan, and/or advertising plan. Assisting with business research. Providing training opportunities, consulting, mentoring and aftercare. BBI supports the development of business and job opportunities for Black Nova Scotians through four primary activities: Training, mentoring and counseling - the BBI has a dedicated training department where various business courses are offered. The training department also facilitates a mentorship program and counseling activities. Communication activities - the BBI is proactive in its communication strategy. The BBI produces a quarterly magazine entitled Black to Business, as well as an annual business community resource directory and annual report along with several brochures. The BBI also maintains a rich versatile website that is updated regularly. The magazines, directory and annual reports are available in the Publications section. Loan and equity lending - the BBI has a repayable loan program accessible to all BBI clients that meet the lending criteria. The BBI also manages a community investment fund. Strategic Initiatives - some of the strategic initiatives conducted by the BBI include trade missions, roundtables, bi-annual business summits, and a very successful youth program called Business is Jammin' (BIJ). The BBI head office is located within the Centennial Building at 1201-1660 Hollis Street Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 1V7.