B2B Black to Business Spring 2024

Atlantic Trailblazers

Municipality values diversity & inclusion in all that we do visit halifax.ca/employment to learn more about upcoming opportunities.

Photo by Adam Hodnett

Message from the Board Chair

The sun’s blazing after another storm. Clearing it won’t occur with a snap of the fingers. Like everything in this province, a day at a time, a step at a time.

The days are whizzing by and we are coming to the first anniversary of our new president and CEO Matthew Martel. His leadership skills mean our team is functioning well to serve our clients. Since the last edition, we have welcomed Chiedza Jones as the new Chief Operating Officer. She is stepping into this role in a thorough and professional manner.

In terms of events, we participated in the Nova Scotia Cooperative Council’s Michelle Obama event in October, inviting more than 1000 of our youth to attend this once in a lifetime event. We also marked Rustum Southwell’s tenure during our Legacy of Excellence Gala and Awards Night. Congratulations again to the award winners.

This issue has an overriding theme of technology. Technology is becoming even more crucial in our day- to-day operations, so we are encouraging technology-minded entrepreneurs to touch base with the BBI to see how we can work in partnership in the coming days, week, and years. Our clients have strong entrepreneurial mindsets so combining that with tech is definitely a win-win situation.

Former U.S. President Barak Obama could have been sitting looking out the window of the BBI office when he penned these words. They describe the challenges and opportunities we face as we extend our reach into the regions across the province that mirror those issues facing our neighbour to the south:

“At the same time, what’s also true is that when our country is tested, our rural communities are tested as well. An economy that’s been changing for decades – more automation, more global competition –has, in many ways, hit rural communities particularly hard. Too many people are still fighting back from the recklessness on Wall Street that shuttered storefronts on Main Street. Too many workers are still reeling from plants that moved overseas and took good jobs with them. Too many communities are struggling to compete, hamstrung by lagging infrastructure like slow or nonexistent broadband connections. And too many families have been ravaged by the heartbreaking epidemic of opioid use.” – op ed 10/24/2016

As always, I want to extend my thanks to my fellow board members, funders, volunteers, partners and our staff as we move forward into the last half of this decade and our upcoming 30th anniversary. Your commitment to the BBI is welcomed and appreciated.

Sincerely,

Joe Parris Board Chair, Black Business Initiative

Le soleil brille après encore une autre chute de neige colossale. C’est une allégorie de la vie dans cette province - un pas à la fois, un jour à la fois.

Les jours filent à toute vitesse et nous approchons du premier anniversaire du début de Matthew Martel. Ses compétences en leadership signifient que notre équipe fonctionne bien pour servir nos clients.

Depuis la dernière édition, nous avons accueilli Chiedza Jones en tant que nouvelle directrice des opérations. Elle assume ce rôle de manière approfondie et professionnelle. En termes d’événements, nous avons participé à l’événement de Michelle Obama du Conseil communautaire en octobre, invitant 1000 de nos jeunes à assister à cet événement unique dans une vie. Nous avons également marqué le mandat de Rustum Southwell lors de notre Gala et Soirée des prix Legacy of Excellence. Félicitations encore aux lauréats des prix.

Ce numéro a un thème prédominant. La technologie devient encore plus cruciale dans nos opérations quotidiennes, nous encourageons donc les entrepreneurs axés sur la technologie à prendre contact avec la BBI pour voir comment nous pouvons travailler en partenariat dans les jours, semaines et années à venir. Nos clients ont des mentalités entrepreneuriales solides, donc combiner cela avec la technologie est définitivement une situation gagnant-gagnant.

L’ancien président américain Barak Obama aurait pu être assis en regardant par la fenêtre du bureau de la BBI quand il a écrit ces mots. Ils décrivent les défis et les opportunités auxquels nous sommes confrontés alors que nous étendons notre portée dans les régions à travers la province qui reflètent les problèmes auxquels est confronté notre voisin du sud :

« En même temps, ce qui est également vrai, c›est que lorsque notre pays est mis à l›épreuve, nos communautés rurales le sont également. Une économie qui a changé depuis des décennies - plus d›automatisation, plus de concurrence mondiale - a, à bien des égards, particulièrement touché les communautés rurales. Trop de gens se battent encore contre l›imprudence de Wall Street qui a fermé les magasins de la rue principale. Trop de travailleurs se remettent encore des usines délocalisées à l›étranger et ont emporté avec elles de bons emplois. Trop de communautés ont du mal à rivaliser, entravées par une infrastructure en retard comme des connexions Internet lentes ou inexistantes. Et trop de familles ont été ravagées par l›épidémie déchirante de l›utilisation d›opioïdes. » - éditorial 10/24/2016

Comme toujours, je tiens à exprimer mes remerciements à mes collègues membres du conseil d’administration, aux bailleurs de fonds, aux bénévoles, aux partenaires et à notre personnel alors que nous avançons dans la dernière moitié de cette décennie et vers notre 30e anniversaire à venir. Votre engagement envers BBI est accueilli et apprécié.

Joe Parris Président du conseil d’administration, Initiative des entreprises noires

Message from the CEO

In the dynamic world of business, technology has emerged as a necessary element of innovation and success. As the CEO of the Black Business Initiative (BBI), I am particularly aware of how vital this is for the Black entrepreneurs we serve. Technology is not just an operational tool; it is a crucial element that can level the playing field in a competitive market. At the BBI, we don’t just recognize the transformative power of technology, we aim to actively integrate it into our support mechanisms for Black entrepreneurs.

Our commitment extends beyond advocacy for technological integration in business. We are deeply invested in the success of entrepreneurs through technological integration. This commitment is evident through our comprehensive support system, which includes financial assistance, mentorship programs, and access to a network of industry expertsto name a few.

These initiatives are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of entrepreneurs who are navigating the complex environment of postCOVID entrepreneurship. Our goal is to ensure that these leaders have every resource they need to succeed and remain competitive in their business.

The increasing number of tech entrepreneurs seeking support from BBI is a clear indication of the effectiveness and necessity of our organization. We are building more than just a network; we are nurturing a community where innovation thrives, and entrepreneurial legacies are created.

Our focus is on creating a robust ecosystem where every Black entrepreneur can access the tools and knowledge, they need to build something extraordinary. The journey of integrating technology in business is ongoing, and at the BBI, we are committed to being at the forefront of this journey, supporting Black entrepreneurs every step of the way.

Sincerely,

Matthew Martel, CEO

Dans le monde dynamique des affaires, la technologie est devenue un élément nécessaire de l’innovation et du succès. En tant que PDG de Black Business Initiative, je suis particulièrement conscient de l’importance de cela pour les entrepreneurs noirs que nous servons. La technologie n’est pas seulement un outil opérationnel, c’est un élément crucial qui peut équilibrer les chances sur un marché compétitif. Chez BBI, nous ne reconnaissons pas seulement le pouvoir transformateur de la technologie, nous visons à l’intégrer activement dans nos mécanismes de soutien aux entrepreneurs noirs.

Notre engagement va au-delà de la promotion de l’intégration technologique dans les affaires. Nous sommes profondément investis dans la réussite des entrepreneurs grâce à l’intégration technologique. Cet engagement se manifeste à travers notre système de soutien complet, qui comprend une assistance financière, des programmes de mentorat et l’accès à un réseau d’experts de l’industrie - pour n’en citer que quelques-uns.

Ces initiatives sont spécifiquement adaptées pour répondre aux besoins uniques des entrepreneurs qui naviguent dans l’environnement complexe de l’entrepreneuriat post-COVID. Notre objectif est de veiller à ce que ces leaders disposent de toutes les ressources nécessaires pour réussir et rester compétitifs dans leurs affaires. Le nombre croissant d’entrepreneurs technologiques cherchant du soutien auprès de BBI est une indication claire de l’efficacité et de la nécessité de notre organisation. Nous construisons plus qu’un simple réseau ; nous cultivons une communauté où l’innovation prospère et où les héritages entrepreneuriaux sont créés. Notre objectif est de créer un écosystème solide où chaque entrepreneur noir peut accéder aux outils et aux connaissances nécessaires pour construire quelque chose d’extraordinaire. Le chemin de l’intégration de la technologie dans les affaires est en cours, et à BBI, nous nous engageons à être à l’avant-garde de ce parcours, en soutenant les entrepreneurs noirs à chaque étape.

Cordialement,

Matthew Martel CEO

Trailblazers

Nicholas LaValle

Innovative Solutions for Addressing Climate Change in our Oceans — Export Business Award Winner

By Vivian Onyinye | Photography by Basha Photography

Approximately five years ago, Nicholas LaValle and a group of like-minded individuals began to feel a growing concern about climate change and its associated anxiety.

They observed the overwhelming amount of negative news surrounding global warming, which led to widespread public outcry and activism. Recognizing the need for constructive action, they embarked on a mission to find solutions to address some of these issues, particularly ocean based. Over the years, Clean Valley CIC has collectively developed three products aimed at tackling different aspects of the climate problem. Its focus has always been centered around the ocean. LaValle believes leveraging the ocean’s capabilities is essential for meeting the pollution reduction goals set by organizations like the UN.

“It’s a very impact-driven business” LaValle says. “Every day is exciting. It feels easy to put your heart and soul into it. At the end of the day, you know that it is creating a solution for challenges that are being felt in the world, that makes the job feel less of a job and more of a mission.”

He works on projects that mostly focus on individuals who run fish farms or oyster hatcheries. His first product, the algae biofilter, aims to treat wastewater from fish farms by utilizing natural processes found in oceans, lakes, and rivers. Rather than disposing of the wastewater, the biofilter uses little critters to filter it.

“We often partner with local oyster farmers, in order to increase the size of their oysters and they have it as a subscription service. The fish farmer is able to not only get his wastewater treated, but he also gets a green premium on the products that he sells because he’s growing his fish in a more natural environment.”

He has a second product which is an oyster hatchery. This product can produce upwards of 10 million spats, which is essentially the oyster seed, every seven to eight weeks, allowing farmers to secure their supply chain for years.

The third product is called Tidal Thrive, and it is designed to prevent coastline erosion. Along with its primary function of protecting coastlines from erosion, Tidal Thrive also helps in rejuvenating local ecosystems and promoting and restoring natural processes along the coastline. He said all three products work to benefit the oyster farming industry.

“It increases the oyster’s size. When you go to sell an oyster, you don’t sell it by the oyster, you sell it by its weight. The bigger you can make an oyster, the larger the profit for the oyster farmer.”

He decided to establish his business in Halifax due to its ideal location for innovation and access to global markets. “It’s situated between major markets such as the EU, Africa, and the United States, and availability of solid government support, and a collaborative community,” he said.

“I think that was a good moment for us to be appreciative and thankful because we had done something that not a lot of companies have been able to achieve. We’ve taken our product and entered halfway across the globe, set it up and have been running it for two years. That’s no small feat, and I think that award is a good representation.”

With the growing trend of Artificial Intelligence, he said he has successfully integrated AI technology into oyster farming, which involves using cameras to monitor the oysters’ responses to water factors such as temperature and food availability. The AI system generates predictions based on the collected data. The system is installed at hatcheries and farms to analyze data and make predictions. This initiative, which is the largest funded project for his organization, was backed by the Ocean Supercluster and received a grant of $414,000.

LaValle said that he is currently learning and expanding his knowledge about insurance industries and the underwriters responsible for creating policies for land-based fish farms, houses, and public property. According to him, insurance companies are finding it challenging to provide coverage because of the risks associated with climate change. He is researching nature-based solutions to mitigate risks and prevent damage to assets.

Clean Valley CIC

902-435-6521

cleanvalleycic.com

3711 Prince Albert Road

Dartmouth, NS B2Y 1N8

Nicholas LaValle accepts his award at the BBI Gala in November

Tobi Oluwatobi Boshoro

Thriving

as a Woman in Digital Technology

By Guyleigh Johnson

In an industry where Black women are underrepresented and often not invited to the table – Tobi Oluwatobi Boshoro has created her own.

As a CEO, trailblazer, and business leader, she has paved a path of strategy, design, and solutions by founding a fintech company named Infinitetiks. She is passionate about financial technology and digitization, believing “every human on earth has a right to financial services in different forms”. Digitization is her passion on the basis that it has the ability to transform the fortune of any business.

She supports this by explaining how she turned a New Brunswick business that was losing money into profit-making within the span of six months. Oluwatobi began her career in financial technology in 2008, when female representation was less than ten percent.

Describing the complexity of being a Black woman within the tech industry, she details the intersections of gender and race and how they have impacted her business, including being at a tech conferences of 200 where she was often one of the four female participants.

In an industry where you have to work twice as hard as your male colleagues, women find themselves fighting against the challenges of pay disparities and fighting for business opportunities that can propel one further. Representation is crucial within the tech industry to create platforms of diversity, inclusivity as well to encourage career growth.

Oluwatobi believes more Black women in tech will create innovation and resolution within career advancement, decreasing many of the issues diverse people face within the workplace. She furthers this by explaining the importance of representation within executive roles and how it amplifies the need to provide a culture that supports Black women in tech. By adding value to anything she touches, she is intentional about being an important member of a team, utilizing tools of creativity, productivity, perspective, and insight. Early in her career she realized how results and excellent outcomes can be means of access, opportunity, and decision-making.

Her company, Infiniteks, is a fintech consulting firm that helps organizations maximize their digital footprint through business transformation. With more than 30 years of experience in project management, digital strategy, product development, and marketing, the aim is to help businesses leverage time to market, resource efficiency, customer experience, and profits. She created this company, recognizing the need within the market and requests from organizations that needed support in scaling and increasing efficiency.

This became foundational during the pandemic when many businesses had to shift to digital, bridging the gap between them and their customer base. When asked what advice would you give to anyone wanting to join this field? Oluwatobi says “Be deliberate about your career growth, work hard and smart, and identify opportunities that align with who you are and your principles. Be a value creator and always aim to deliver, invest in personal development and continuous improvement to remain on the cutting edge, be open to feedback, and remain flexible”.

Photo: Submitted

TAKING CARE OF MENTAL HEALTH WHILE TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS.

“I realized that everyone has their own struggles. It inspired me to take a look at my own career choices and focus on how I could make a difference.”

Martina Kelades, 2007 NSCC alumni

Addictions Community Outreach and Mental Health Recovery & Promotion

• Life Out Loud, founder and podcast host

• TV and film actor, published author

• Mental health facilitator, trainer and speaker

Throughout the year, we’re proud to share stories of African Canadian entrepreneurs, graduates and community builders in the NSCC alumni network who are shaping the history of tomorrow, like Martina.

Read more about her start at NSCC: nscc.ca/martina

Ceejay Amadi Wheelie Bin Doctor

By Vivian Onyinye

Ceejay Amadi founded his business approximately nine years ago, while he was still a student at the University of Prince Edward Island. During a conversation with a friend who was also an entrepreneur, they brainstormed business services that would be useful for Prince Edward Islanders without breaking the bank.

Among many ideas, they noticed that bin cleaning was a needed service that had never been offered. Inspired by this gap in the market, Amadi decided to create a business plan, distribute flyers door-to-door, and reach out to potential customers.

His business, Wheelie Bin Doctors, offers pressure washing, bin cleaning, and cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties. He has always been passionate about serving people and has spent much of his life volunteering for various organizations. His top priority is to relieve people of the stress and worry associated with the unpleasant odors that can linger in their bins between pick-ups.

“Well, they always say, wherever people never like to go to, that’s where the money is. But for me, it wasn’t just about the money, it was about the service.”

He mentioned it was a tough task to convince people to see the need to keep their bins clean, which many of them didn’t even care about. However, during summer, the task becomes a bit easier as most people tend to dispose of seafood in the bin, which attracts flies and can transfer germs into their homes. Hence, people become more cautious and prefer keeping their bins clean.

He describes running a business as a roller coaster but says it’s been a learning experience for him as well.

“There’s never too much learning and I keep learning new things every day, new ideas. We’re in a phase where we still want to make Islanders, make this a regular thing just like picking your garbage,” he said.

“I’m proud of everything, it’s a marathon and I continue to work and hopefully, create spaces and open up job opportunities for all the people

on the Island who are interested in either starting their own business or working for my business.”

When he started the business as an international student, he said capital was the biggest challenge he faced and continues to remain a challenge up to date.

He said it had been difficult for him to access capital. No one seemed willing to provide funding except for a networking event he attended. There, he met a helpful lady who guided him to the organization she was associated with, Innovation PEI, where he secured a loan of $18,000 to kickstart his business, marking a promising beginning for him.

“I think small businesses continue to actually need income to keep the business going.”

He said he is presently working on several innovative technical concepts for his bin cleaning service. One such idea involves partnering with the UPEI sustainable engineering department to create a prototype for a highly advanced system. This system could incorporate features such as water filtration to recycle unclean water from bin cleaning, with the ultimate goal of saving time, water, money, and resources in his business operations.

“With this, we don’t have to go get clean water again. We’re still working on that. But we’re open to ideas and options and funding on how we can grow the business.”

He plans to make the bin cleaning service more of a subscription service where people can access monthly, and yearly subscriptions to get their bins cleaned. He is looking to expand to other Atlantic and Canadian provinces but says that will require a lot of capital.

“We actually need people to hear us out and give us resources to help us grow. There are lots of businesses out there run by Black people as well. Reaching out to them also will help them have hope that they’re not just been left on the curbside, that there’s hope for them in growing their business and creating employment for others.”

Collins Chukwuma How One Student Turned His AI Learning App into an Overnight Sensation

By Amber Fryday

Collins Chukwuma has been interested in technology since he was a child. He also has always had a business savvy mindset and an entrepreneurial spirit and, despite, being only 20 years old, he understands the importance of staying ahead of the game.

As the world becomes increasingly technologically advanced, Chukwuma knows it’s important to keep up with the latest innovations, in order to succeed. Chukwuma, a third-year international student at Memorial University, has created an artificial intelligence (AI) powered app, ScanSolve, that is designed to help international students.

Chukwuma says he knew there was a need for it after struggling to keep up with a university workload himself.

“I basically wanted a personalized tutor in every student’s pocket,” he says. The app is designed to help international students who may be struggling with language barriers or cultural differences. It’s not always easy to navigate a new country and a new school system, but with this app, students can get the help they need quickly and easily.

It only took him weeks to create while it became an Internet sensation on TikTok almost overnight. Users came from around the world and since then, ScanSolve has had nearly one million downloads.

The application allows students to take pictures of problems or ask questions in order to receive guidance on a variety of issues. It then personalizes the learning experience to help students quickly find the information they need, using machine learning to learn more about the user’s preferences.

“It doesn’t give the same response to everyone, it gives you a response based on your age, based on your school level. That’s how personalized the app is for users.”

This is especially helpful for international students who may be unfamiliar with the school system or the language they are studying in.

One of the benefits of the app is that it’s available 24/7. Students can access it whenever they need it, whether it’s late at night or during the weekend. This is particularly important for international students who may be studying in a different time zone or who may have other commitments during the day.

The app is also designed to be user-friendly. It’s easy to navigate and understand, even for those who may not be familiar with technology. This is important because it ensures that all students, regardless of their technical abilities, can access the help they need.

Chukwuma says he always had big dreams and ambitions but says he never imagined accomplishing this at a young age.

“I’m very proud of myself,” he says.

“It feels very amazing being someone of my age achieving things like this and achieving this kind of growth and traction.”

Chukwuma adds this is just the beginning of his entrepreneurial endeavors. “There’s a lot more on the table for us. I can’t wait to see the future.”

Photos: Submitted

Collins Chukwuma demonstrating his App

The Accessibility Directorate is creating a roster of Nova Scotians with disabilities who are interested in reviewing and providing input on future projects - such as resources, workshops, and other projects about accessibility or intended for the public. Sign up to provide your

Voice Accessibility Expert advice. Learn more: Accessible.NovaScotia.ca/what-you-can-do-improve-accessibility or email accessibility@novascotia.ca

District 13

Councillor

Lisa Blackburn

District 14

District 2

District 3

Councillor

David Hendsbee

District 5

Councillor

Sam Austin

District 8

Councillor

Lindell Smith

BBI In The Community Former Ghanian President Inspires Nova Scotian Youth

By Amber Fryday | Photography by Mfonirii

Excited energy filled a conference room at the Westin Hotel in Halifax as dozens of university students gathered for a breakfast event in October. The energy in the room was palpable though the anticipation wasn’t necessarily for a decadent cup of java and an aesthetic dish of eggs benedict.

The real inspiration behind the buzz was the opportunity to network with keynote speaker, His Excellency H.E. John Mahama, former President of Ghana.

The event, “Unlocking Economic Development Through Youth Entrepreneurship” was organized by “Business Is Jammin”, an organization supported by the Black Business Initiative.

“It was an opportunity to network and inspire as we explore the pivotal role of youth entrepreneurship in fostering economic growth,” says the BBI. Nearly 90 students registered for the event from universities across the province, many of whom were from Ghana, who came to see their former president.

H.E. John Mahama was the fourth President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana (January 07, 2013 – January 06, 2017). Ghana, under President Mahama, witnessed a massive infrastructure development drive in all sectors of the economy, including education, health, ports and harbours, aviation, rail, oil, and gas.

His vision and strategic investments in these areas have, today, solidly positioned the country for its next phase of development as a Lower Middle-Income Country.

Beyond investing in the socio-economic infrastructure, Past President Mahama also believes in investing in people in his desire to ensure social justice and equity, and this was reflected in his promotion of girls and womens’ interest at all levels.

Aside from serving as the president of Ghana, H.E. John Mahama is a

former Chairperson of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) Commission, and a first Co-chair of the United Nations Advocacy Group on the Sustainable Development Goals.

Past President H.E. John Mahama shared his own experiences and insights on the importance of youth entrepreneurship in fostering economic growth. He also provided guidance on how to overcome challenges and achieve success in the business world.

This event was designed for university students interested in entrepreneurship and its role in fostering economic growth but also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from experienced entrepreneurs, and gain valuable insights into the world of business.

Business is Jammin' staff listening intently

H.E. John Mahama and BBI staff members engaging with the audience

Learning from a great leader

Chiedza Jones, COO of the BBI addresses the gathering

H.E.John Mahama with Otni Chinenere of the BBI

Entrepreneur Tool Kit A Compact Toolkit for Building a Customer-Led Data Flywheel

By Chiedza Jones

In today’s world, harnessing the power of data is pivotal for sustained growth and competitiveness. Creating a customer-led data flywheel can be a transformative approach. A data flywheel is a cyclical process that continually generates insights, reinforcing a loop of improvement. This toolkit provides a concise guide on how your business can develop and utilize a data flywheel to grow and to both attain and retain customers.

1. Establish a Customer-Centric Foundation

Start by learning what your customers like and need. Conduct surveys, talk to customers, and pay attention to their preferences. This understanding becomes the starting point for building a customer-focused data flywheel.

2. Gather Data to Get the Whole Picture

Use tools and technology to gather information from different places. Make sure it all fits together so you can see the whole picture. This can include information from their purchases, website visits, and interactions with your business. Consider using a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to keep everything organized.

3. Analyze Data and Find Useful Information

Embrace user-friendly analytical tools like Google Analytics, Microsoft Power BI or Tableau to understand the data. Convert raw data into meaningful information that guides decisionmaking processes.

4. Tailor Customer Experiences

Use what you learn to personalize your products, services, and marketing. This personal touch enhances customer engagement and loyalty.

5. Obtain Feedback and Keep Improving

Ask customers for feedback regularly. This creates a continuous loop of asking, learning, and adapting to meet evolving expectations.

6. Use Technology to Keep up with Growth

Use tools that can grow with your business. Cloud-based solutions and automated tools can help you handle more data as your business grows.

7. Keep Data Safe and Protect Customer Information

Make sure customer information is safe by using strong security measures to ensure compliance with data protection and privacy regulations.

8. Train Your Team

Ensure everyone on your team understands how to use data. Invest in training programs to enhance the data literacy of your team, making them capable of leveraging insights in their daily tasks.

9. Keep Getting Better and Change with the Times

Regularly check how well your data strategy is working. Adjust it based on feedback and new trends. Cultivate a culture of continuous improvement to refine your data strategy over time.

In conclusion, a customer-led data flywheel, supported by technology, can be a game changer for businesses. This toolkit offers a roadmap to leverage the power of data systematically, enhancing operations and customer experiences ensuring sustained growth and success.

BBI News – Partner Spotlight Emera ideaHUB

By Carol Dobson

There’s a great deal of technology research being conducted in Halifax that is flying under the radar. One place where this is happening is in the Emera IDEA Building located on Dalhousie’s Sexton campus on Morris Street. As an incubator for physical product innovation, the ideaHUB combines hands-on support, immersive workshops, and industry partnerships to founders who become a participant in its key programs.  Its infrastructure and programs are designed to support students, early-stage start-ups, SMEs, and industry, with a focus on creating marketplaces for founders to commercialize their products and innovative technologies. Participants come from a wide variety of sectors including clean energy, medical technology, and fisheries technology.

According to the most recent annual report, the ideaHUB garnered $75 million in total financing acquired by startups, generated $62 million in revenue, and created 162 jobs.

There are three programs working along a continuum from the initial ideaDesign for those taking the first steps in the design/thinking process to a first proof of concept. The 10-month ideaBuild program takes the idea from a concept into reality – from design to prototype, to preparing to both manufacture the product, and scale up production. It also includes teaching founders business fundamentals for managing and running a startup and includes a funding component.

The ideaBridge Residency is a unique program that focuses on early-stage deep technology, something that is rare in Canada. This is the next step along the way for the founders to launch their products and stand on their own. They are given access to academics and industry leaders who help them at this stage of their product’s development.

There is also an incubator lab, called the ideaSpace, located at the Idea Building where founders can work in a hands-on facility with equipment and access to expert supports.

“We have heavy prototype manufacturing machinery such as 3D printers and lasers,” Barrinique Griffin, the project manager for the Emera ideaHub, says. “Participants in the residency program can access this equipment for free. It makes sense because often these are expensive piece of machinery that are needed in the early stages, but not when a product is being manufactured, so it’s an expense they don’t have to incur.”

The ideaHub has a network of organizations accessible to participants, including the Black Business Initiative. Founders can tap into the resources the BBI offers including support for their business through training and other programs as well as ways to collaborate with the BBI as the businesses grow and develop.

“The BBI has sent early-stage founders to participate in our ideaDESIGN program which introduces Business Skills and prototyping to founders.” Griffin said.

Another area where the BBI and ideaHub collaborates is the Advancing Women Founders Committee which is meeting to develop ways to support female founders in technology.

For many years, the science world conducted research for research’s sake, with less emphasis on monetizing the results. With facilities like ideaHub, that way of thinking has flipped 180 degrees. Dalhousie’s Engineering students are participants in the ideaHub, whether working on their own projects, assisting founders, and taking advantage of the knowledge base this region offers as they proceed from research to commercialization.

“We are having a cohort in April that has more of a bio-medical focus than other programs,” Griffin says. “So, we are looking for BIPOC founders who would be interested and who would benefit from this cohort.”

Photo: Submitted

Tapping into the Brainpower at ideaHub

Hector Jacques Award for Business Excellence Glenn Carvery (April 4, 1968-October 14, 2023)

By Carol Dobson

Sometimes my dreams are so wide that I think they will never come to pass but I remind myself that even if I achieved just half of them, that would be success

– Glenn Carvery

This year’s Hector Jacques Award for Business Excellence was bittersweet as it honoured the too short life of local entrepreneur Glenn Carvery.

Carvery was featured in an early cover story for Black to Business when his business was in its embryo stage and was featured again in the Spring 2019 edition of the magazine. Today, Carvery’s trucks are a familiar sight on Halifax Regional Municipality streets. He and his two brothers, in their youth, served in the reserves but, while they both chose careers serving in the military, he followed his own drum. His career began as a plumber, graduating from the former provincial vocational system. During his early years, he learned how to professionally paint from his co-workers in an early job as a painter’s helper at the Nova Scotia Hospital where he spent five years and later at the Victoria General Hospital, spending evenings painting as a side job.

In the early days, he worked at his ‘day job’, hiring other painters to work on his contracts during the day. Eventually he transitioned from being an employee to entrepreneur. As fate would have it, during his VG days, his grandfather heard an ad on the radio about a subsidized loan program for people from African Nova Scotian communities to assist in starting a business. The $7900 loan was the starting point for Carvery’s Construction as it allowed him to purchase supplies and a van and make the leap into business ownership full time. Three plus decades later after he founded the company, there are there are three intertwined companies, employing approximately 60.

“I wanted to build a company where my clients would only have to make one call,” Carvery told Black to Business in 2019.

Glenn Carvery’s three sons accepting the Hector Jacques Award in their father’s honour from Cynthia Dorrington

As a result, Carvery’s Construction handles commercial, industrial, and residential contracting needs - plumbing, electrical, heating, painting, renovation, carpentry, pavement markings, and flooring, with added snow plowing in the winter, accessible to customers 24/7. It also has the distinction of being unionized, one of the first Black-owned ones in the province.

Two more associated companies were added to his portfolio - CGR Mechanical Incorporated which is a unionized shop with electricians, heating technicians, gas fitters and plumbers, and the third company, CC Realty, owns commercial properties, including the company headquarters.

His company eventually became a general contractor with a large fleet of trucks, winning major contracts from the Department of Natural Defense and other public and privatesector clients.

In the height of the pandemic, he built an 18 thousand square-foot warehouse and office complex (which is state of the art) in Burnside, bringing all his trades under one roof, which was a long-time goal of his.

Not only has Carvery’s Construction been honoured by the Black Business Initiative’s highest award, the Hector Jacques Award for Business Excellence, but it was also the finalist for the 2009 BBI Entrepreneur of the Year Award. During the company’s early days, he also received a loan from the BBI and successfully paid it back within four years.

Carvery grew a business that is now in the hands of his three sons, a lasting legacy to his drive and commitment. Glenn Carvery died suddenly in October 2023, and his obituary praised many things about his character – his love of his family and community, his commitment to local sports (hockey and lacrosse), his gregarious nature, and his love of bright colours.

In the words of his obituary, “he loved hosting team parties, family get togethers, and leading his spin class to the finish line with his enthusiastic encouragement! He was the loudest cheerleader…He was such a positive and inspiring force throughout his life, his family, his community.”

Left: Glenn Carvery was featured twice on Black to Business Covers. Above: Carvery’s Burnside headquarters

Ferron Family Farms —

Karen

win the BBI Atlantic Entrepreneur of the Year

Living their Dreams

By Carol Dobson

Photography by Adam Hodnett

If you’re a certain age, the television shows ‘Green Acres’ and ‘Little House on the Prairie’ bring back memories. Well, for the Ferron family of Long Settlement, New Brunswick, their journey to the Maritimes puts a modern spin on both those shows.

Al Ferron was born in Jamaica and always wanted to be a farmer. His Canadian wife, Karen, listened to his dreams for many years before agreeing the time had come to make the move into agricultural life.

“We were originally looking at Nova Scotia but the deal fell through,” Al Ferron says. “So we started looking at New Brunswick and saw something that could work. We’d never been there before.”

When they made the decision to purchase the property, which is located ‘Up River’ near the St. John River, the French fry capital of Florenceville, and Hartland, the home of Covered Bridge potato chips. It’s prime farmland with spectacular views of Mars Hill from its 137 acres, prime land for raising grass fed goats, cattle, chickens, sheep and pigs.

They kept their plans close to their chests as they sold their home and prepared for the move. The most important audience for their decision was their four children, each with their own priorities. Their son, Jaheil, was graduating from high school and thought it was a great opportunity to explore this region’s universities, their second oldest daughter, Makeda, said she had to get a horse, while the third daughter, Angelieka, was concerned about the availability of wi-fi.

“One day our oldest daughter, Latonah, came to visit and saw real

estate listings on the computer and asked us what about me?” Karen says. “The next day she came over and said we (her husband and young child) are coming too. She’s a nurse and was able to find employment quickly at the hospital and they were on board.”

So the family caravan took off for New Brunswick. Al drove a U-Haul, Karen, the family vehicle, with the rest of the family following behind.

“We were too busy to even think of getting a video,” Karen says.

Once they were in New Brunswick, the job was to get the word out about their products. They sell at the Fredericton’s Boyce Farmer’s Market, now have drop off points, and are making connections with various communities in the province. Al’s gregarious personality has been invaluable as they’ve made connections to potential customers in different communities around the province.

One of their specialty meats is goat, which is highly nutritious and valued among those with Caribbean roots. The Ferrons’ goats are grassfed and there is a huge difference in taste. In Ontario, they used to get their goat meat from the Amish community nearby because that is how the Amish raised their meat.

This little cutie is the foundation of Ferron Farms’ business

“When you buy goat from the supermarket, it’s from Australia and New Zealand and has been fed hormones,” Al says. “It takes time to get enough meat on a goat, something which mass production doesn’t have time to do. Plus, they add dye to make the meat red. So, when you take a piece of massproduced goat out of the freezer and thaw it, it’s no longer red, it’s brown. On the other hand, one of our customers said she froze a piece of our goat for quite a while, took it out of the freezer, thawed it, and it was as fresh as the day she bought it.”

Karen became the public relations and marketing department for the farm, calling on her marketing background from her Ontario days. The marketing was done on a shoestring on their home computer, using social media, newsletters, and old-fashioned word-of-mouth.

“Our business cards graduated from ones we bought at Staples to Vista Print,” she says. “We also called up the Minister of Agriculture and held a meeting. When we were there, we said, ‘this is who we are, this is what we are doing, how can you help us? We really feel it was a positive meeting.” They also searched out anywhere they could get their story out including Black-focused podcasts such as Blacklantic.

“Once you’ve had our meat, you’re not going back to mass produced,” Al says. “We refer to the days of our grandparents’ meat which was raised naturally. There’s more taste and texture.”

They have also become known for their juicy Meat King chickens. Last year’s chickens were raised in their pastures and by the end of the season were sold out. Pressure from customer means they will be raising more this year to meet the demand.

One major accomplishment was building a farm store on the property.

“Initially we started small,” Karen says. “As we were cleaning up the

place, we started selling out of the farmhouse. Then I said, ‘we have to do something’. Having the business in the house was getting to me. So, rather than renting, we built a shop on the property, with help from our neighbours, and I got my office back. It opened in June and the opening was so well attended so we knew we were on the right path.”

Currently the business is being run by Al and Karen, as their two middle children are at university. However, the minute the kids come home for school breaks and the summer, they are immediately immersed in the around-the-clock chores involved with running the farm. For Al, that’s a bonus – at Christmas time, he says he was able to actually sleep in the morning after the kids got home for Christmas holidays.

There’s lots of room for value added products that ensure things produced on the farm don’t go to waste. Their daughter Latonah is looking at developing a line of goat’s milk soap while Al would love to be able to make his favourite goat’s milk cheese on site. These are dreams that are dependent on red tape, infrastructure, and time.

“Al always wanted a farm,” Karen says. “Owning the property, which he can pass along to the children, and to future generations is his dream.”

Ferron Family Farm

506-243-1606

ferronffarm@gmail.com

ferronfarms.ca

40 Years of Telling the Black Community’s Story

Submitted by the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Sccotia. Photography also submitted by the BCCNS

The year 2023 marks 40 years of operation at the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, which started from humble beginnings, decades ago to now being known internationally. In 1983 when the Centre opened its doors, it was a unique idea and became Canada’s first and largest cultural centre and provincial museum dedicated to Black history and culture. Today, some 40 years later, it still remains the same - the largest and oldest provincial museum dedicated to Black culture and heritage in the birthplace of Black culture and heritage in Canada.

Over the past 40 years, the Black Cultural Centre has had a front row seat to the evolution of Black culture and heritage in Canada. This was achieved through the many events, programs, and research projects that began at the Centre and the perseverance of a people who wanted to ensure their history was preserved and shared.

During this, our 40th Anniversary, we are pleased to celebrate and honour Black History like never before in new and exciting ways to elevate the Centre to a National Black culture and heritage Centre of Excellence in Canada. Recently, we launched a foundation to aid in major fundraising efforts, called the Black Culture and Heritage Foundation of Canada. This year, the Centre will host a series of events and programs to support our efforts to expand the facility through a major capital project that will include community use space, a dedicated theatre, and archival storage for our ever-expanding precious museum collection.

40 YEARS AGO we changed the future for Black Canadians. Please support our BUILDING CAPITAL CAMPAIGN so we can do it again.

We seek your assistance and support to continue the work that was started decades ago go to protect, preserve, and promote an important part of our shared history. We invite you to be a part of something special that is happening in our province that will reach the country.

Some of the ways you can become involved and support the work of the Centre is to become a champion for the cause, we have launched a unique program called 40 for 40, which is 40 leaders and influencers from across Canada that support the ideas of the Black Cultural Centre and will stand with us as allies as we move towards the next chapter. Join our honourary member Senator Donald Oliver with founding member Elder Dr. Wayne Adams along with Canadian Bay Street tycoon and CBC Dragon’s Den Member Wes Hall, of the Black North Initiative, to name a few.

Expanded Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia

Supplier diversity creates opportunity.

Invest Nova Scotia provides programs and services for diverse-owned businesses, from certification guidance and supplier diversity procurement initiatives to facilitating trade missions.

We can help you access supplier diversity procurement programs within private sector corporations and government departments, so you can grow your business.

Learn about the benefits of supplier diversity investnovascotia.ca/businesses-diversity

Youth Entrepreneur of the Year

Shanyce Jones

By Guyleigh Johnson | Photography by Basha Photography

The heart of starting a new business is usually tied to the passion to fix or solve a problem. Being a visionary is the powerful act of being strategic, flexible and innovative in curating ideas, designs and experiences tailored to your clients. Shanyce Jones is a behavioral consultant, the 2023 Youth Entrepreneur of the Year, and CEO of Behavioural Connections.

She has a strong foundation of ten years of experience working with neurodiverse children and youth, cultivating safe spaces for them to show up and be supported.

During the pandemic, with the closure of schools, a lot of families struggled with childcare, educational resources, and wrap-around support. Jones describes the huge gap in support for neurodiverse children and youth, detailing the lack of resources and wait times for resources that were available.

By understanding the importance of early intervention and connection, she decided to open her own practice in 2021, acknowledging the need in this specific area of childcare. Behavioural Connections is a consulting service supporting all children and youth of various abilities and neurodiversities to thrive at home and in their communities.

It has a range of support for children and families including communication, language skills, toilet training, school readiness and

social skills. They are also able to conduct assessments, specifically autism assessments. Behavioural Connections is building communities of care through collaborative efforts including parents/guardians, teachers and other specialists in personalized plans, goals, and writing programs. This client-centered approach builds a team of support for the clients.

Within her journey in psychology as a Black woman, Jones has met challenges and barriers of racism, but it has not stop her passion or dedication to this field. Starting a business during the pandemic came with challenges of in-person activity or connection at a time when the world was told to distance. Jones explains their therapy is more beneficial face to face due to hands-on learning such as teaching play skills, peer interactions, and gross motor/ fine motor movement.

Throughout those difficulties, Jones and her team persevered with dedication to this important and impactful work. When asked what advice she would give to others that have dreams of working in this field, she said “Make sure you are educated and have gained experience in every aspect of the field. This could be working in a school setting, at a group home even or in a hospital setting. Experience and education are key because there will be people who will try to discredit you if you do not have adequate education”

Shanyce Jones accepting her award at the BBI Gala

BIJ Report

By Marine Gemeda | Photography by Elise Marsman Photography

In 2023, Business is Jammin’ (BIJ) stood as a beacon of inspiration, transforming the lives of young people through its dynamic and empowering initiatives. The year was marked by groundbreaking programs and events that significantly impacted the community, setting a promising path for youth empowerment and development.

Dr. Rudy Ffrench Trailblazer Award

A highlight of the year was the prestigious Dr. Rudy Ffrench Trailblazer Award. BIJ proudly celebrated the achievements of Nova Scotian youth, honoring Tanya Odongo and Jaimie Bowers for their outstanding contribution to their communities. This accolade symbolizes BIJ’s commitment to nurturing future leaders.

Experience in Green Building

In an innovative partnership with EfficiencyOne, BIJ launched the ‘Experience in Green Building’ program. This initiative aims to revolutionize the efficiency of homes, businesses, and communities within African Nova Scotian locales. Participants gained hands-on experience

with Efficiency partners, fostering a new generation of Black youth keen on careers in the Green Building sector and inspiring them to envision futures as students, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.

Role Models on the Road

BIJ’s ‘Role Models on the Road’ initiative brilliantly connected aspiring youth with successful Black professionals. More than 30 volunteers engaged students in eight schools, offering interactive sessions that served as guiding lights for tomorrow’s leaders.

STEM Entrepreneurship Bootcamp

The STEM Entrepreneurship Bootcamp saw 25 high school students immersed in a week of creativity and learning. This program, a testament to BIJ’s commitment to nurturing young talent, owes its success to the unwavering support of its partners and supporters.

BIJ’s Business Camps

BIJ’s March and Summer Business Camps were a triumph, drawing in dozens of young participants. The camps were more than just fun; they were a practical exercise in real world business applications, nurturing entrepreneurial spirit and leadership skills in each participant.

BIJ Charity Golf Tournament

The annual BIJ Charity Golf Tournament, held on September 8, 2023, was yet another feather in BIJ’s cap. The tournament attracted 64 participants and volunteers, and raised more than $10 thousand, thanks to the generous support of sponsors and donors. This event was not just fundraiser but a celebration of community spirit. Congratulations to Team Birdie Boyz for its triumphant win!

As BIJ strides into another year, its dedication to empowering youth shines brighter than ever. Promising more innovation, inspiration, and impactful community involvement.

To learn more about Business is Jammin’ and how you can support its mission to empower youth, please contact us at bijyouth@bbi.ns.ca. Your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of young people and the future of our community.

Tanya Odongo’s family accepting her award

Jaimie Bowers, Dr. Rudy Ffrench Trailblazer Award recipient

Congratulations to Team Birdie Boyz

Supporting Black Canadian Community Initiative (SBCCI)

By Hawa Seck

Financial Impact:

Since 2020, the Black Business Initiative (BBI) has successfully allocated an impressive $16.9 million to 360 organizations nationwide.

This funding has facilitated the implementation of 669 projects, showcasing a tangible financial investment in various initiatives within the Black Canadian community.

Research and Insight:

The Supporting Black Canadian Community Initiative has spearheaded a comprehensive funding model study to meticulously examine unmet and pending needs within the Black community.

This study goes beyond a surface-level analysis, providing evidence-based insights into both the accomplishments and areas where needs remain substantial.

By offering a nuanced understanding of the community’s dynamics, the study contributes significantly to fostering a more informed and strategic approach to supporting the Black Canadian community.

Infrastructure Support:

The Black National Funders Intermediaries Network plays a pivotal role as a comprehensive platform dedicated to supporting Black-led non-profit organizations, charities, and businesses.

Going beyond mere facilitation, BNFIN strategically streamlines the grant application process, ensuring efficiency and accessibility while providing a gateway to vital funding resources.

By serving as a nexus for collaboration within the expansive Black community across Canada, BNFIN stands at the forefront with a network that spans more than 1000 Black-led non-profit organizations. In this capacity, it serves as a vital point of contact, fostering community engagement, facilitating networking opportunities, and promoting the seamless sharing of valuable resources.

Empowering Tomorrow: BBI’s Vision for Sustainable Black Organizations

In an exciting development, the Black Business Initiative has secured additional investment from Employment and Social Development Canada to herald the launch of the third call for proposals under the esteemed Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative in November 2023. This groundbreaking funding initiative is poised to bolster 80-90 projects championed by Black-led non-profit organizations, marking a significant stride towards empowerment. By offering grants of up to $45,000 for the Capacity Building Stream and up to $60,000 for the Capital Assistance Stream, BBI is paving the way for transformative change within the community.

But that’s not all – BBI is gearing up for a second conference, designed exclusively for all SBCCI sub-agreement holders. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Halifax, NS, this conference is more than an event; it’s a strategic gathering aimed at sculpting a Canadian capacitystrengthening agenda for Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving organizations. The goal? To fortify the foundation for the sustained future of Black organizations across the nation.

“In an exciting development, the Black Business Initiative has secured additional investment from Employment and Social Development Canada to herald the launch of the third call for proposals under the esteemed Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative in November 2023.”

Training Report

Embark on a Journey of Professional Growth with BBI’s Winter 2024 Business Training Series!

By Mamadou Wade

At BBI, our unwavering commitment to fostering business growth, professional networks, leadership, and skills development continues to guide us. As we navigate the transition back to normalcy post-pandemic, our Training Department stands as a beacon of empowerment.

Recognizing the crucial role of our training initiatives, we proudly present the Business Training Series, an engaging 11-week virtual program (40 hours) designed to offer diverse and captivating learning opportunities. In the last semester, participants delved into Proposal Writing with Zoran Jokic and Marketing in Today’s World with Rob Gorham, leaving them satisfied and informed. The knowledge gained is invaluable for both existing businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. Our collaborative efforts with the Province of Nova Scotia’s Workplace Education Initiative (WEI) have paved the way for three enriching training sessions in the Winter 2024 semester:

• Financial Fundamentals

• Business Skills

• Content Marketing

Guided by industry experts and entrepreneurs, Takia Panza-Benjamin, and Georges Hanna, these courses promise to deliver valuable insights and practical knowledge. We are excited to feature instructors who not only excel in their fields, but also reflect diversity within our community.

In line with our commitment to fostering an interactive learning environment, we intentionally maintain small class sizes, ranging from eight to 12 participants on average. This ensures an engaging and personalized experience for everyone involved.

As BBI expands its reach to support entrepreneurs across the Atlantic region, our training opportunities evolve in tandem. We are actively exploring collaborations with various groups and organizations to further enhance and broaden our training initiatives.

Join us on this exciting journey of growth, collaboration, and skillbuilding. Together, let’s shape a future where opportunities know no bounds!

EEM Report

By Rodger Smith & Jocelyn Stevens

This year has been an exciting year, for not only the BBI organization, but the Entrepreneurship team as well. The team welcomed Mouhamadou Samb, as an Entrepreneurship Engagement Manager in New Brunswick, working alongside Jocelyn Stevens, the Assistant to the Director for the BEP. Mouhamadou is our bilingual officer, working out of the BBI Moncton office. The team is excited to have him on board, and he too, has hit the ground running, meeting new clients and stakeholders, and has even featured as a guest on a radio talk show “Real” hosted by Diana Blanco.

The team has been very busy, working on various projects and initiatives. The highlights include the following:

• The team officially launched Francophone business support in Moncton in November. The highly successful event was attended by business and community leaders, business service providers, Black entrepreneurs, members of the Black community, BBI executive team and staff, as well as other supporters and well-wishers.

• The Entrepreneurship Networking Panel Series got underway this year. With the leadership of Otni Chinenere (EEM – NS South), the team has been able to host roundtable discussions with entrepreneurs in different sectors on a monthly basis. This series has been well received and will be expanding to the other provinces in 2024.

• The video series project was another successful initiative of the team. With the leadership of Mamadou Wade (EEM – NS Central), we engaged a leading Black-owned media company, Unbound Media, to profile five Black businesses in Halifax, NS through a series of two-minute, high-quality, and impactful videos that we shared on our various media channels (where they are still accessible). The project will be continued in 2024 to include other provinces.

• The Consultancy Advisory Services grant program continues to be an effective tool in helping grow businesses across the Atlantic. The program funds access to expert and consultant support to businesses by providing up to 80 per cent to a maximum of $7,500 grant funding to cover the costs. More than 130 applications were received this year, and more than $400 thousand in grants is expected to be approved by year end.

BBI also honoured some hardworking entrepreneurs in the Black business community at the Black Business Awards event held in November 2023. The awards included two new awards, the Export Business of the Year Award, and the Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Award, alongside the annual Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the biennial Hector Jacques Award of Business Excellence, the marquee award of the BBI. Congratulations to the following winners:

• Hector Jacques Award of Business Excellence – Glenn Carvery, Carvery Construction (this award was given posthumously).

• Entrepreneur of the Year Award – Legiston (Al) and Karen Ferron, Ferron Farms Ltd.

• Youth Business of the Year – Shanyce Jones, Behavioural Connections.

• Export Business of the Year – Nicholas LaValle, Clean Valley CIC.

The team continues working on the above and several other initiatives, including training programs, African History Month and African Heritage Month events, and vendor and market opportunities for its clients. We are all excited for 2024 and the opportunities it brings for Black businesses in Atlantic Canada.

Precious Familusi

Precious Familusi is a global citizen with a profound love for community and an unwavering passion for justice. His journey has taken him from his birthplace in Kenya and across various countries before finding his home in Newfoundland and Labrador. His experiences have shaped him into a dedicated advocate for marginalized communities, particularly within the Black diaspora.

As the son of an entrepreneur who explored diverse business ventures before leaving Nigeria, Familusi developed a deep-seated appreciation for the resilience of Black Entrepreneurs. Now, as a part of the the Black Business Initiative he channels his passion for justice into tangible support for Black entrepreneurs. BBI’s mission to empower Black business owners resonates deeply within his personal journey, aligning perfectly with his vision for economic equity and empowerment.

“He cherishes the opportunity being able to work with businesses at every stage because he gets to be part of the journey and assist in overcoming any barriers the businesses might be facing.”

Familusi’s passion for community extends beyond the realm of business. He is a recognized advocate for social justice, having received accolades such as the Leslie Thoms Award and recognition as one of “The Telegram’s Heroes of 2020.” His leadership as a community organizer and co-founder of Black Lives Matter NL underscores his dedication to driving systemic change.

Councillor Waye Mason

District 7

Meet the Board

Anthony Winston III, PEng., P.E.

By Carol Dobson

Get in touch:

902 490 8462

halifax.ca 311

Not your average business? We’re not your average lenders?

Ask us about the Small Business Loan Guarantee Program. eastcoast@creditu.ca |

Anthony Winston III, PEng., P.E. is one of the newest members of the Black Business Initiative Board of directors, having just joined in the summer of 2023.

Winston’s path to Nova Scotia and the BBI began with a tragic event in American history – the brutal murder of George Floyd. He and his family were living in California and decided the time was right to search for a more peaceful home.

“We looked at New Zealand, and almost moved there,” he says. “Then we lived for a while in Mexico. When we started looking to Canada, we considered British Columbia, but it was too expensive. So, we started looking towards the other coast. I didn’t want to live in Toronto. But, when we flew into Nova Scotia, with its natural beauty and history of Black settlers coming to the province under the British, we knew it was the right place for us.”

Halifax’s location was an added plus. He, his wife and two children are avid travelers and their home is located close to Stanfield International Airport when the travel bug hits.

Throughout his career, the Chicago native has been active in organizations that promote Black leadership, community service, and entrepreneurship. This began as a member of Phi Beta Sigma, a primarily Black fraternity. He’s also involved with organizations such as My Sister’s Keeper, which steers young women into the STEM world.

Winston Engineering specializes in environmentally friendly applications, including building EV charging stations. Also, many of the projects his firm works on include engineering for public health projects, mental health facilities, and affordable housing, all a mirror of his social conscience. Since its beginning, the company has been remote, with staff in Nova Scotia and California.

When he came to Nova Scotia, he started looking for organizations which fit in with his beliefs. An early contact was the Black Business Initiative. When he met with Matthew Martel and Cynthia Dorrington, he knew there was a fit and took up their invitation to join the Board.

There is a slight change in his company as of March 1. It has been acquired and will form part of Border States, a major American electrical firm which is one of the largest electrical equipment distributors on the continent.

“It’s a perfect fit,” he says. “My entire team, both in the United States and Canada have also been hired.”

Photo: Submitted