The Black Entrepreneur Initiative (BEI) at Elon University is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at uplifting Black creatives, entrepreneurs, innovators, and business owners within the Elon community. Founded in the Summer of 2021, BEI was established as an initiative of the Doherty Center for Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship by Elon students Soniyah Robinson ‘23 and Kobie Williams ‘22, along with the Doherty Center executive director Alyssa Martina. Inspired by BEI founder and chapter leader Sherrod Crum at UNC Chapel Hill, BEI@Elon is part of a larger movement to support Black entrepreneurship across North Carolina.
The mission of the Black Entrepreneur Initiative is to build a community for Black entrepreneurs and creatives at Elon University, both current and prospective, while also facilitating a network for those interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, and venture creation. The initiative welcomes Black students, faculty, staff, and Elon alumni to join and engage in various activities and events aimed at supporting and promoting Black entrepreneurship.
The vision of BEI@Elon is to continue supporting and engaging Black entrepreneurs at Elon throughout their entrepreneurial journey. This support is provided through networking events, programming, workshops, mentorships, community events, social media engagement, marketing, and advertising. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, BEI aims to empower Black entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed in their ventures.
One of the key aspects of BEI@Elon is the student leadership committee that has been established to drive the initiative forward. The committee works closely with identified Black student entrepreneurs at Elon and collaborates with other Black student organizations and centers on campus. By fostering strong ties with the university’s Black alumni and partnering with Black entrepreneurs in North Carolina and beyond, BEI@Elon is creating a robust support system for Black entrepreneurs within and outside the Elon community.
For those interested in joining BEI at Elon, finding a mentor, or being featured as a creative, the initiative encourages reaching out via email at bei@elon.edu. By connecting with BEI, individuals can access a wealth of resources, support, and opportunities to further their entrepreneurial endeavors and contribute to the growth and success of Black entrepreneurship at Elon University and beyond. The Black Entrepreneur Initiative is a beacon of hope and empowerment for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators, providing a platform for them to thrive and make a lasting impact in the entrepreneurial landscape.
