Atlantic City Set to Host Second Black Business Expo, Expanding Support for Entrepreneurs of Color
Vendors are seen at the Atlantic City Black Business Expo at the All Wars Memorial Building on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. Photo by Meredith Winner/Mer-Made Photography.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This is part of a series of stories Front Runner New Jersey.com is producing in recognition of National Black Business Month, sponsored by The CompleteCare Health Network, highlighting all businesses of color in South Jersey.
BY CLYDE HUGHES | AC JosepH Media
ATLANTIC CITY – The City of Atlantic City will host its second Black Business Expo on Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 5–8 p.m. at the historic All Wars Memorial Building, aiming to uplift and engage Black entrepreneurs at a time when political and economic headwinds continue to challenge minority?owned businesses.
The free event, sponsored by the city, is expected to draw a large crowd after last year’s overflow turnout. The Expo is part of Atlantic City’s broader effort to strengthen small businesses, expand economic opportunity, and highlight the cultural and entrepreneurial contributions of African Americans across the region.
Mayor Marty Small Sr. is slated to speak, along with several prominent leaders in Black business advocacy:
*Dr. John Harmon, President & CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ)
*Regina Hairston, President & CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey & Delaware (AACC-PNJD)
*Ralph Hunter, Founder of the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey
Their participation underscores the growing collaboration between Atlantic City and regional chambers focused on expanding access to capital, strengthening supplier diversity, and advocating for equitable business policies.
A Growing Regional Movement
In a statement promoting the event, the city emphasized the Expo’s role in celebrating Black entrepreneurship and building new pathways for growth.
“The City of Atlantic City Black Business Expo returns Tuesday, August 25, bringing entrepreneurs, business professionals and community members together to celebrate Black-owned businesses and create new opportunities,” the city said on social media.
“Enjoy local vendors, panel discussions, live radio interviews, a pop-up museum exhibit and more. Come network, support local entrepreneurs and celebrate Black business in Atlantic City.”
The Expo builds on momentum from similar events across New Jersey and the tri?state region. The AACCNJ has expanded its statewide programming in recent years, including its Juneteenth Innovation Expo, matchmaking sessions for small businesses, and advocacy around closing the racial wealth gap. The AACC-PNJD, led by Hairston, has also grown its footprint, supporting entrepreneurs across three states and pushing for stronger procurement pipelines for minority?owned firms.
New Dining Passport to Debut
Bruce E. Weekes of the City of Atlantic City said the inaugural Atlantic City Black-Owned Dining Passport will be distributed exclusively at the Expo. The passport highlights both brick?and?mortar restaurants and food trucks owned by African Americans, encouraging residents and visitors to explore and support local culinary businesses.
The initiative aligns with Atlantic City’s broader push to promote small businesses through tourism, cultural programming, and community?based economic development.
Last Year’s Success Sets Expectations High
If last year’s turnout is any indication, attendees may want to arrive early. The 2023 Expo drew an overflow crowd that filled the All Wars Memorial Building, with lines stretching outside as visitors waited to meet vendors and hear from panelists.
Nearly 20 vendors showcased a wide range of products and services, including food, clothing, books, jewelry, beauty products, and digital offerings. Organizers expect even more participation this year as interest in minority?owned businesses continues to grow.
A Historic Venue for a Modern Mission
The All Wars Memorial Building—often called “The Soldiers Home”—has long served as a civic gathering place for Atlantic City’s African American community. Hosting the Expo in this landmark adds historical resonance to an event focused on economic empowerment, cultural pride, and community advancement.
With panel discussions, live radio interviews, a pop?up museum exhibit curated by the African American Heritage Museum, and dozens of vendors, the Expo aims to provide both inspiration and practical resources. Attendees will have opportunities to:
*Connect with chamber leaders and business advocates
*Learn about funding, certification, and procurement opportunities
*Network with entrepreneurs from across South Jersey
*Support local vendors and discover new businesses
*Engage with cultural exhibits celebrating Black history
Atlantic City officials say the event reflects the city’s commitment to ensuring that minority-owned businesses have the visibility, support, and community connections needed to thrive.
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