The historic Fox Theatre in Atlanta came alive last weekend as Daymond John, star of Shark Tank and acclaimed business mogul, hosted the 5th Annual Black Entrepreneurs Day.
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The highly anticipated event celebrated Black entrepreneurship, drawing thousands of attendees onsite and streaming to millions worldwide. This year’s gathering was marked by inspiring conversations, special guest appearances, and generous awards to support Black-owned businesses.
The event featured a star-studded lineup of speakers, panels, and performances. Attendees had the chance to hear from notable personalities, including Kelly Rowland, Olympian Jordan Chiles, media mogul Charlamagne Tha God, hip-hop legend Flavor Flav, and the influential duo behind Earn Your Leisure, Rahad Bilal and Troy Milings. Each shared their personal entrepreneurial journeys, offering invaluable insights and advice to the enthusiastic audience.
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During a heartfelt moment, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens proclaimed November 22nd as the official Black Entrepreneurs Day in Atlanta, a recognition of the event’s significance in driving progress within the Black business community.
Kelly Rowland’s Entrepreneurial Inspiration
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During her sit-down with Daymond John, Kelly Rowland reflected on her earliest entrepreneurial inspiration: Tina Knowles, mother of Beyoncé and Solange. Kelly shared how witnessing Tina’s creativity and dedication shaped her understanding of hard work and innovation.
Flavor Flav’s Wisdom on Business and Support for Women’s Sports
Hip-hop pioneer Flavor Flav offered empowering advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
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“Believe in your business and believe it will be successful. The way you think about your business is so important—if you think positively, positive things will happen. Don’t look back; just go all in and commit fully to making your business a success,” he told BOSSIP’s contributor Liz Smith.
Flavor Flav also highlighted his support for women’s sports, mentioning his gesture of gifting a bronze clock necklace and financially supporting Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles after a controversial loss. Additionally, he celebrated the accomplishments of the U.S. women’s water polo team and confirmed his plans to carry the Olympic torch in 2028.
Earn Your Leisure Offers A Call to Action
Rahad Bilal and Troy Milings of Earn Your Leisure emphasized the importance of community and multiple income streams in entrepreneurship.
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“To see so many people taking the entrepreneurial journey and using each other as resources speaks volumes. Having just one income is too close to none. Combining a 9-to-5 with an entrepreneurial path is vital.”
Three Black-owned businesses were awarded $25,000 grants sponsored by the NAACP and event partners like Hilton, T-Mobile for Business, and Constant Contact. Attendees also benefited from complimentary professional headshots, hands-on advice, and resources to help elevate their ventures.
Atlanta’s very own 2 Chainz closed the day with a 30-minute set that captured the energy and culture of the city. The 5th Annual Black Entrepreneurs Day was not just a celebration but a powerful reminder of the potential within the Black business community. With Daymond John at the forefront, the event continues to inspire future generations to dream big, take risks, and build lasting legacies.
Source: Courtesy Black Entrepreneurs Day / Courtesy Black Entrepreneurs Day
