BBI News
Message from the Board of Directors For over 20 years, the BBI has been making positive strides on the social and economic well-being of Nova Scotians. BBI’s continued existence is based on a strong foundation and forward-thinking leadership that envisions and actively supports economic inclusion and engagement of marginalized communities.
around preparation for our youths’ futures and building business acumen now. We need to drive diversity in every sector, so our youth see themselves represented in every field. We can empower our communities to achieve no matter their circumstance. Since 1996, BBI has paved many roads and developed strong partnerships. In 2019, BBI is looking forward to onboarding new partners and enhancing our current relationships. We must continue the pursuit of strategic alliances to further educate our province, communities, clients, and youth.
The longevity of this organization is a testament to the foundation laid by the past Chairs, BBI staff, and external partners and stakeholders - an ecosystem of support that is second to none. When I was asked to be the ninth Chair of the BBI, I didn’t hesitate, as I know what the BBI stands for and the direction that they are headed. I am humbled to be a part of the work that the BBI does and continues to do - bridging the gap for entrepreneurs to financial institutions, government, employment opportunities, and other support agencies.
There’s so much more that we can do. Looking beyond the metro area to surrounding regional and rural centres, we can continue to advance women-owned businesses, help our clients innovate and scale-up, foster Black-owned businesses in the tech sector, advocate for supplier diversity, and continue expanding our reach to not only Black-owned businesses, but to businesses operated by all racially visible minorities. BBI has brought more visibility and awareness to our communities, but we still have a long journey ahead of us. By building upon our capacity, we are helping to secure better economic futures for our communities.
Since chairing the board, I have had the privilege of hosting important conversations and being part of some “firsts” within the organization. In June, during our Annual General Meeting, the board of directors presented the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. For the first time since BBI began, the top five nominees were all women entrepreneurs. With less than 16% of small businesses in Canada being owned by women, I believe this speaks to our progression as an organization and the work ethic, leadership, and determination of our clients.
Bridging the gap is a continuous effort; the work must be done. I was proud to be a part of the BBI as one of its Board members, and I am honoured now to serve as its chair. I respect and recognize the tireless work and commitment of the staff and my fellow board members to the clients and the organization. With our continued strong leadership, I know we will accomplish even greater things, together.
As Chair, I have been honoured to have met with Parliamentary Secretary David Lametti and Premier Stephen McNeil, on two separate occasions, to discuss the impact of our programs and initiatives over the last two decades. The roundtables were engaging and educational; input was given and received. The conversations were candid about the successes and the barriers. This dialogue is imperative as we move forward, advocating for our communities and clients. The conversations centered
BLACK to BUSINESS
Respectfully,
Carlo Simmons, Chair
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Winter 2018