Overview

Thomas-McCants Media, Inc., publishers of the Black Pages USA directories, has successfully promoted minority business expositions for the past ten years. Known as “Black Expo”, the one-day event has been held in Wilmington, N.C. (ten years), Columbia, S.C. (nine years), Charleston, S.C. (seven years), Jacksonville, FL (five years), Norfolk, VA (two years) attracting over 800 exhibitors and 85,000 visitors. This concept was taken from Black Expo USA which was a national event that traveled the country and no longer exists. “Black Expos” are successfully held in cities such as Chicago, New York, and Indianapolis. Black Expo is the largest event of its kind directly targeting the African-American community.

Purpose

The purpose of the Black Expo is to promote economic development through increased exposure for minority-owned businesses. African-American owned businesses have the opportunity to showcase their products and services to the public and procurement officers from major corporations and government entities. It is also an opportunity for major corporation and government entities to develop viable working relationships with minority-owned businesses while marketing their products and services to a growing consumer market.

Included in the Expo

This event is a family-oriented event that exposes the community to business opportunities and cultural resources. Business owners have the opportunity to secure exhibitor booths to showcase their products and services. Black Expos are enhanced by including the following:

Seminars/workshops
Health Fairs
Vendors
National Guest Speakers
National Recording Artists
Live Entertainment
Youth Activities
Food Vendors