Building Black economic power in Minnesota
We're a community of Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals working together to grow, get seen, and lift each other up across the Twin Cities and beyond.
Started by the community, for the community
BBN began as a way to connect Black entrepreneurs who were building in isolation — and turn that into shared momentum: customers, capital, mentorship, and visibility.
Today we host events year-round, maintain a living directory of funding and visibility opportunities, and partner with organizations across Minnesota to strengthen Black economic ownership.
BBN Mission & Values
Our Mission
To unite and empower Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals across Minnesota through community support, economic development, and advocacy—creating opportunities for connection, collaboration, and long-term success.
Our Vision
We envision a thriving, sustainable ecosystem where Black-owned businesses across Minnesota have equitable access to resources, visibility, and community-driven support that fosters growth, generational wealth, and economic equity.
How BBN Lives Its Mission
We work directly with business owners through practical guidance, learning opportunities, and ongoing support designed to meet businesses where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
We create intentional spaces for connection through events, roundtables, and gatherings that encourage collaboration, shared learning, and relationship-building across Minnesota’s Black business community.
We amplify Black-owned businesses by increasing visibility, supporting systems-change efforts, and ensuring Black business voices are present in broader economic and policy conversations.
BBN Core Values
Community First
We believe strong communities build strong businesses. Our work centers relationships, trust, and collaboration across Minnesota’s Black business ecosystem.
Equity & Access
We are committed to reducing systemic barriers by expanding access to resources, opportunities, and visibility for Black-owned businesses.
Accountability & Integrity
We operate with transparency, responsibility, and care—holding ourselves accountable to the communities we serve.
Collective Growth
We believe shared success strengthens the entire ecosystem and leads to long-term, sustainable economic impact.
Leadership
The people behind BBN
A working board of Black business owners, professionals, and community builders across Minnesota.
Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
Members at Large