Bristol is a vibrant city with a diverse and exciting business community. Nonetheless, there are still inequalities within the business landscape that affect many within the Bristol community. Covid-19 and the Black Lives Matter movement have highlighted the need to prioritise tangible actions that will address these inequalities and in particular support the unique challenges faced by Black-owned businesses.

This event, hosted by Lloyds Banking Group and supported by Thangam Debbonaire MP, will bring together an expert panel, Black business owners and support organisations to explore the challenges faced by the local Black business community and create connections. During the session we will talk about issues including access to finance, digitisation, support and advice. We’ll combine this open and honest discussion with the opportunity for business owners to meet and connect with support organisations and networks.

We’ll start the event with a panel discussion during which we’ll hear insights from a range of participants including Indie Gordon of Foundervine, Diana Chrouch Chair of the National BAME Business Policy for the Federation of Small Businesses and Thangam Debbonaire MP Bristol West. This discussion will explore the challenges faced by Black business owners in Bristol and beyond. It will discuss what is needed to ensure that Black-owned businesses have the best opportunity to start up, grow, adapt and thrive. This will be followed by a networking session during which attendees can connect with each other, attend one of four drop in sessions and connect with business support organisations including the Federation of Small Businesses, Business West and the West of England Growth Hub.

This event is open to all small business owners in and around the Bristol area and we look forward to meeting you there!

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