The Tulsa Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) announced the launch of “Building Black Pitch Night” from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, February 25th. The evening, set to take place at the 36th Street North Event Center, will highlight “Black-owned small business owners from a variety of industries” in a powerful and “celebratory” event.
TEDC’ Entrepreneurial Development & Education Network (EDEN) is seeking 5-7 Black small business owners interested in franchising their business to compete in the pitch competition. These business owners will share their ideas for expansion and compete for prizes, including cash and free admission to TEDC’s Franchise Academy.
Organization seeks to support opportunities for Tulsa’s Black business owners with investments and innovative programs
Black Americans own roughly 2% of all businesses with at least one employee in the United States. Over the past several years, TEDC has worked alongside city and community leaders to expand Black business ownership in Tulsa. The organization has helped to seed several new businesses in the city and was a key partner in developing Oasis Fresh Market.
According to the organization’s social media, in 2021, only 2% of capital investments in the country went to Black entrepreneurs. TEDC, however, ensured that 70% of the funding it dispersed when to support Black founders. It’s a part of a broader effort to provide, not just funding, but education to future entrepreneurs across Tulsa.
In addition to the pitch competition, the evening’s event will include a mixer and entertainment from local Black artists. Before the start of the competition, attendees will be treated to a dinner catered by local Black-owned restaurants.
Registration for both the pitch competition and the event itself are still open. Admission to Friday’s “Building Black Pitch Night” is free for attendees and those wishing to join the pitch. Tulsans interested in being a part of this exciting and powerful evening can click here to RSVP and learn more.
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