Issuu

BUILDING CONNECTIONS

Bridging the gap between communities by creating access to opportunities

Black Business Initiative

Main Office/Training Department

5450 Nora Bernard Street, Suite 200 Halifax, N.S., B3K 1A9 Canada

New Brunswick Offices

24 Coburg Street Saint John, N.B., E1C 1E9 Canada

795 Main Street, Suite 300 Moncton, N.B., E1C 1E9 Canada

Phone: 902.426.8683

Fax: 902.426.8699

Toll Free: 1.888.664.9333

Email: bbi@bbi.ns.ca

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ STATEMENT

The annual report of the Black Business Initiative for the year ended March 31, 2025, is prepared to account for and report on our fiscal responsibilities, operational activities, and achievements to government, the community, and the public and private sectors. This is our commitment to transparency in the planning and delivery of our services and strategic direction. We acknowledge that this annual report is, to the extent possible, a complete and accurate representation of outcomes relative to the goals and priorities set for the reporting period. It includes a financial overview, reports from the chair of the board and CEO, as well as an operations report with both quantitative and qualitative outcomes.

@blackbusinessns

@bbi_atlantic

Black Business Initiative

@BlackBusinessNS

STRATEGIC PILLARS

GROW

Nurturing growth and scaling prosperous businesses through:

• New and equitable sources of capital, including micro capital

• Access to technology and innovative industries

• Supply chain and procurement development

• Building of next generation entrepreneurs and leaders

SUPPORT

Enabling business efforts to access opportunities, resources and technical services that are available through:

• Excellence service quality

• Wrap around support services

• Coaching, counselling and learning excellence

• Training and skill development

CONNECT

Bridging the gap between communities by:

• Understanding barriers and challenges

• Connecting entrepreneurs to resources, partners, opportunities, and ideas

• Creating access to opportunities

ADVOCATE

Foremost voice for the Black businesses and inspiring community pride:

• Celebrating businesses and sharing success stories

• Championing thriving communities

• Promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion

CORE VALUES

INSPIRATION

We are committed to motivating and empowering entrepreneurs and individuals to follow their dreams.

RELEVANCE

We are committed to responding to needs and opportunities timely, continuously adapting to a dynamic business environment.

INNOVATION

We are committed to growing innovative and sustainable businesses and communities.

ETHICS

We are committed to acting with integrity and honesty always.

LEADERSHIP

We are committed to leading economic development throughout Black communities.

BOARD CHAIR, BLACK BUSINESS INITIATIVE

BUILDING CONNECTIONS, BRIDGING GAPS

Joe Parris Board Chair, Black Business Initiative

Looking back at the past year, it’s clear we’ve maintained strong momentum at the Black Business Initiative (BBI). This progress has been made possible by the connections we’ve cultivated and the gaps we’ve diligently worked to bridge – principles that serve as the very heartbeat of our mission to empower Black entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada.

The Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) has been one of our most significant achievements this year. It’s been truly impactful to witness how this program empowered Black-led non-profits across Canada. Through this initiative, we’ve provided crucial support for capital projects and organizational capacity building, helping these organizations develop and grow in meaningful ways. I take particular pride in our recent project that captured the stories of ten organizations thriving thanks to SBCCI. These videos highlight the tangible difference we’re making while enabling these organizations to tell their stories effectively.

Our Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) has experienced remarkable strategic expansion, made possible through vital support from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). This growth allowed us to extend our reach beyond Nova Scotia and connect directly with Black entrepreneurs throughout Atlantic Canada. Despite challenging economic conditions, we’ve seen substantial increases in the number of Black-owned firms we serve across all four Atlantic provinces. This regional expansion represents a significant milestone for an organization deeply committed to supporting Black entrepreneurs wherever they operate.

Throughout our 28-year history, BBI has focused on opening doors and creating opportunities. We’ve established partnerships with businesses and institutions that have successfully helped entrepreneurs to not only launch new ventures but also expand existing ones. These connections have been instrumental in addressing one of the most persistent challenges they face: access to capital.

Our approach goes beyond simply facilitating funding. Our sector-specific initiatives create valuable opportunities for collaboration and mutual support, helping Black-owned businesses connect with each other and integrate into broader industry networks. Looking to the future, several key priorities stand out. Recognizing that youth represent our future, BBI is launching an exciting Youth Employment and Skills

“Building connections and bridging gaps is more than just our theme. It’s the very essence of our ongoing commitment.”

Strategy (YESS) program in partnership with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This initiative will dedicate significant resources to cultivating the next generation of Black entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada.

Another crucial focus is strengthening our long-term sustainability by diversifying our funding sources. We aim to increase investment from the business community, reducing our reliance on government funding. This diversification will ensure BBI’s independence and enable us to serve our community even more effectively in the years ahead.

My greatest hope is to see a thriving and interconnected Black entrepreneurial ecosystem flourish throughout Atlantic Canada, one where businesses not only survive but thrive and adapt confidently to the evolving economic landscape. What inspires me the most is witnessing the tangible successes of the individuals and organizations we’ve had the privilege to support.

As you review this year’s annual report, I want to emphasize that building connections and bridging gaps is more than just our theme. It’s the very essence of our ongoing commitment, and the dedication of our partners, the expertise of our talented staff, and the unwavering commitment of our board are cornerstones of this vital work.

Together, we are forging a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous future for Black entrepreneurs across our region.

Board Chair, Black Business Initiative

Joe Parris

Joe Parris with an attendee at the SBCCI event.

CEO, Black Business Initiative

CEO’S REPORT

VISION, MOMENTUM, AND COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

As we reflect on this transformative year at the Black Business Initiative (BBI), I’m filled with pride, gratitude, and profound optimism for the future. BBI continues to serve as a pillar for Black entrepreneurship, and the progress achieved this year stands as a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and commitment

At a time when global and local economies are navigating significant transitions, from technological disruption to a rising demand for inclusive growth, BBI stands ready. We understand that Black businesses aren’t just participants in the economy, but essential engines of innovation, resilience, and sustainable prosperity. Our mission is to ensure they are equipped, empowered, and connected to thrive amid a rapidly changing landscape.

One of our proudest accomplishments this year has been the continued success and national expansion of the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI). By strengthening Black-led non-profits across Atlantic Canada and throughout the country, we’re building the infrastructure for lasting social and economic change. Our recent project highlighting ten thriving organizations through compelling storytelling is a powerful reminder of the tangible, transformative impact we are creating.

Our Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) has also seen remarkable growth, extending its reach to all four Atlantic provinces. Amid economic headwinds, the significant rise in the number of Black-owned firms we serve is a clear indicator of both the deep need for our services and the trust our community places in us. We’re proud to expand access to entrepreneurial supports, financial resources, and critical networks that drive real business success.

None of this progress would be possible without the outstanding staff who power BBI’s daily mission with unmatched expertise, dedication, and heart. Our exceptional board of directors continues to offer visionary leadership and strategic direction. To our funders and partners, whose trust and collaboration make our impact possible, I extend my deepest gratitude. Together, we are building something far greater than any single initiative — we’re strengthening an entire ecosystem.

Throughout the year, we prioritized building strong, sector-specific collaborations, and focused deliberately on systemic barriers such as access to capital. We know that real empowerment is rooted in creating sustainable ecosystems and in connecting entrepreneurs to networks and opportunities that evolve alongside them.

Looking ahead, I’m particularly energized by the launch of our youth employment program in partnership with Employment and Social Development Canada. Investing in the next generation of leaders isn’t simply a strategic priority, but an obligation to the future. We’re creating new pathways for young entrepreneurs to innovate, lead, and thrive.

In tandem, BBI is taking bold steps toward long-term financial sustainability by diversifying our funding base. Through this effort, we aim to strengthen our independence and ensure that we remain agile and impactful for decades to come.

In closing, I envision an Atlantic Canada where Black entrepreneurship is synonymous with innovation, prosperity, and global leadership. Every milestone reached this year is a direct result of the extraordinary people who believe in this vision: our team, board, our funders, our partners, and above all, the entrepreneurs we’re privileged to serve.

Thank you for being part of this journey,

Matt Martel CEO, Black Business Initiative

Matt Martel

RAPPORT DU PDG

VISION, ÉLAN ET ENGAGEMENT ENVERS L’EXCELLENCE

Matthew Martel, ICD.D

Président-directeur général, Initiative des entreprises noires (BBI)

Alors que nous réfléchissons à cette année de transformation au sein de l’Initiative des entreprises noires (BBI), je ressens une immense fierté, une profonde gratitude et un optimisme sincère pour l’avenir. BBI continue de servir de pilier à l’entrepreneuriat noir, et les progrès réalisés cette année témoignent de la puissance de la vision, de la collaboration et de l’engagement.

À une époque où les économies mondiales et locales traversent des transitions majeures — qu’il s’agisse de perturbations technologiques ou d’une demande croissante de croissance inclusive — BBI est prêt : compétent, audacieux et tourné vers l’avenir. Nous comprenons que les entreprises noires ne sont pas de simples participantes à l’économie; elles en sont des moteurs essentiels d’innovation, de résilience et de prospérité durable. Notre mission est de veiller à ce qu’elles soient outillées, autonomisées et connectées afin de prospérer dans un environnement en rapide évolution.

L’une de nos plus grandes réussites cette année est la poursuite du succès et de l’expansion nationale de l’Initiative de soutien aux communautés noires canadiennes (ISCNC). En renforçant les organismes à but non lucratif dirigés par des Noirs partout au Canada atlantique et dans le pays, nous bâtissons l’infrastructure d’un changement social et économique durable. Notre projet récent mettant en lumière dix organismes florissants à travers des récits inspirants rappelle avec force l’impact tangible et transformateur que nous contribuons à créer.

Notre Programme d’entrepreneuriat des Noirs (PEN) a également connu une croissance remarquable, élargissant sa portée dans les quatre provinces de l’Atlantique. En dépit des vents contraires économiques — des pressions inflationnistes aux dynamiques de marché changeantes — la forte augmentation du nombre d’entreprises noires que nous soutenons illustre à la fois l’ampleur des besoins et la confiance que la communauté accorde à BBI. Nous sommes fiers d’élargir l’accès aux soutiens entrepreneuriaux, aux ressources financières et aux réseaux essentiels à la réussite des entreprises.

Aucun de ces progrès n’aurait été possible sans le travail exceptionnel de notre personnel remarquable, qui anime la mission de BBI au quotidien avec une expertise, une dévotion et une humanité sans égal. Notre Conseil d’administration d’exception continue d’offrir un leadership visionnaire et une orientation stratégique précieuse. À nos bailleurs de fonds et partenaires, dont la confiance et la collaboration rendent cet impact possible, je tiens à exprimer ma plus profonde gratitude. Ensemble, nous bâtissons bien plus qu’une initiative — nous renforçons un écosystème tout entier.

Tout au long de l’année, nous avons accordé la priorité à la création de collaborations solides et sectorielles, tout en nous attaquant délibérément aux obstacles systémiques comme l’accès au capital. Nous savons que l’autonomisation réelle repose sur des écosystèmes durables — des réseaux et des opportunités qui évoluent avec les entrepreneurs qu’ils soutiennent.

En regardant vers l’avenir, je suis particulièrement inspiré par le lancement de notre programme d’emploi jeunesse, en partenariat avec Emploi et Développement social Canada. Investir dans la prochaine génération de leaders n’est pas seulement une priorité stratégique, c’est une obligation morale envers l’avenir. Nous créons de nouvelles voies pour permettre aux jeunes entrepreneurs d’innover, de diriger et de s’épanouir.

Parallèlement, nous prenons des mesures audacieuses pour assurer la durabilité financière à long terme en diversifiant notre base de financement. Grâce à ces efforts, nous souhaitons renforcer l’indépendance de BBI et garantir notre agilité et notre impact pour les décennies à venir. En conclusion, j’imagine un Canada atlantique où l’entrepreneuriat noir est synonyme d’innovation, de prospérité et de leadership mondial. Chaque étape franchie cette année est le fruit des personnes extraordinaires qui croient en cette vision : notre équipe, notre conseil, nos bailleurs de fonds, nos partenaires — et surtout, les entrepreneurs que nous avons le privilège de servir.

Merci de faire partie de cette aventure.

Matt Martel

ENTREPRENEURSHIP REPORT

The 2024–2025 fiscal year marked another period of strong momentum for the Black Business Initiative (BBI) Entrepreneurship team, as outreach, support and development opportunities continued to expand across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador. The team delivered comprehensive counselling, training and funding support to Black entrepreneurs and businesses throughout the region. It was a year defined by strategic growth, deeper engagement and a renewed commitment to building a thriving, inclusive business community across Atlantic Canada.

HIGHLIGHTS

Training

Throughout the year, business advisors worked with partners to provide business counselling to 620 Black-owned businesses and delivered training sessions to 520 others. These services helped entrepreneurs scale their operations and build business acumen with support from industry experts and mentors. More than 15 specialized training opportunities were also offered, contributing to a growing ecosystem of support.

Funding and program expansion

As part of BBI’s funding initiatives, the Consultantcy Advisory Services Grant program distributed a total of $745,408 to Black led businesses.

Through the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), the team continued its work in New Brunswick, P.E.I. and Newfoundland and Labrador, facilitating a high volume of new business intakes and expanding training efforts. The addition of a new team member in New Brunswick further enhanced service delivery in the region.

Entrepreneur development

A highlight of the year was the successful launch of the BBI Surge program, which hosted two cohorts of 12 entrepreneurs. Participants underwent six weeks of intensive business development led by a team from the Purposeful Group. The program incorporated group learning, one-on-one coaching and culminated in an Ideal Client Night in Halifax. Each participant received a $2,500 grant, and strong interest generated a significant waitlist, underscoring the value and demand for the initiative.

Events and market access

BBI also continued its focus on vendor opportunities. Markets in Atlantic provinces gave 88 businesses platforms to showcase and sell their products to the public, increase visibility and build customer relationships.

The team also supported the 14th annual BIJ Golf Tournament at Granite Springs Golf Course in September.

“I started Food by Fatu to share it with people in Fredericton and to cook with family members and friends who love what I do. It’s not just about food, but a representation of our Senegalese culture. It’s amazing to bring your culture to people without them having to travel. BBI supported my business in an incredible way, giving me a platform that made it easier for people to find and reach me. They’ve been with me every step of the way, not just through phone calls but through continuous guidance. I’m so thankful — this support means a lot.”

Fatu Sedore Food by Fatu

— Fatu Sedore, owner, Food by Fatu

2024–2025 HIGHLIGHTS

620

Black businesses received business counselling

520

Black businesses received business skills training

15 Specialized training opportunities

$745,408

Value of funding distributed to Black-led businesses

$60,000

Total funds awarded to the cohort of entrepreneurs who successfully completed BBI’s Surge Program

Joyce Adom Simply Go Natural Cosmetics Inc.

“My experience so far has been great. Engaging this consultant to help us with this phase of our business has been extremely helpful as we struggled to find funding. Having this rebranding completed is going to open newer opportunities to boost sales and marketing efforts. We’re confident this will bring us greater opportunities.

It’s a game changer for Simply Go Natural. Thank you so much for helping us get this vital project completed! Please don’t stop providing such practical consulting service funding to Black businesses like ours. We need it to grow and thrive.”

— Joyce Adom, founder & director, Simply Go Natural Cosmetics Inc.

BEP TESTIMONIAL

How

BBI helped Tipsy Tomato

We had just acquired a business that was not doing so well in revenue, because of this, we could not generate immediate funds to scale the company, after spending a lot on bad debts and acquisitions.

We needed to launch an aggressive marketing campaign to announce the new management, offerings and promotions to generate revenue and patronage. However, we were short on ideas and funding.

Our short-term solution was to multitask by improvising some marketing activities, but we were burning out. As a business owner who had engaged with BBI in the past, we felt we could once again leverage their help, we asked for introductions to agencies that could help us and if there were resources at their disposal to assist an SME with our kind of need. BBI advised us to approach professionals who could help us develop a marketing plan that could be eligible for a grant funding. The experience was seamless and straightforward. We approached a couple of agencies, and when we found a fit, we worked on a marketing plan, which we submitted to BBI, among other requirements. Receiving the grant was a huge relief because we did not have the finance and expertise to run such a big project.

The grant is timely, as we are just entering the summer season, which is crucial for anyone in our line of business. It is the season to make the most revenue and showcase the great offerings we have. We are assured that we could generate more revenue, learn from the agency’s expertise in marketing and gain access to materials we could reuse for a long time.

To anyone considering joining or supporting the organization, BBI is highly recommended. My line of business has a very low profit margin, and I still can’t imagine how we would have been able to afford such an amount for marketing. Beyond the funding, it is an opportunity to learn from professionals who would be troubleshooting your operations and recommending impactful strategies that would have a lasting impact.

BEP TESTIMONIAL

How BBI helped Ocan Consultants

“I got to know about BBI when they opened their New Brunswick office and was curious about the support available for Black entrepreneurs. I joined the CBDC’s Business Fundamentals program, where I had access to valuable business resources and networking opportunities.

What stood out was BBI’s consistent support and ability to adapt to client needs. With their help, I secured funding to build a website, which gave my business credibility and boosted revenue within our first year. We’re now exploring expansion into Atlantic Canada.

I’d tell others, BBI is a partner from start to finish.”

–

Ivan Okello,

Founder and Principal Consultant, Ocan Consultants

“After acquiring our business, we lacked immediate funds to boost operations. Having engaged BBI in the past, we turned to them for help. They recommended professionals who developed a grant-supported marketing plan, which we submitted to BBI.

Receiving a grant from BBI was a huge relief. The timing was ideal as we’re entering summer, which is our peak season. We’ve been able to learn from the agency’s expertise in marketing, access valuable resources and better position our business to generate more revenue.”

— Kolawole Oshundiya, co-owner, Tipsy Tomato

Kolawole Oshundiya Tipsy Tomato

Ivan Okello Ocan Consultants

SUPPORTING BLACK CANADIAN COMMUNITIES INITIATIVE (SBCCI) REPORT

This fiscal year marked five years of the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI). Since its launch, the program has been a resounding success, with numerous testimonials highlighting how it has strengthened Black-led, Black-serving non-profit organizations and the communities they support.

Many of the organizations said the SBCCI funding helped them overcome significant challenges, especially limited access to resources for capacity building and program delivery. They were able to expand operations, launch programs that provided seed funding to entrepreneurs, and in some cases, build community kitchens to serve vulnerable seniors. These examples reflect just part of the total impact achieved by this program.

As BBI concludes this fiscal year, we remain committed to our advocacy through the Black National Funders Intermediary Network (BNFIN), working to ensure the continuation of this program for years to come.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the SBCCI team, our stakeholders and our funder, Employment and Social Development Canada, for their contributions to the success of this groundbreaking initiative.

WEBINARS, WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS

• Delivered six in-person grant-writing workshops and three virtual workshops across Canada, with sessions held in Halifax, Toronto, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Alberta and Vancouver.

• Hosted the Black Futures Conference in fall 2024, featuring keynote speaker Wes Hall.

• Presented a national webinar series on organizational development, covering program management and development, monitoring and evaluation, board governance and financial management.

SBCCI keynote speaker Wes Hall on stage.

Itah Sadu, managing director, Blackhurst Cultural Centre, at the SBCCI conference.

Matt and Sonia Aimiumu of African Women Acting at the SBCCI conference.

SBCCI panelists Louis Edgar Jean-Francois, CEO, Groupe 3737, and Dr. Harvey Millar.

2024–2025 HIGHLIGHTS

Projects funded across Canada

$14,998,000

Awarded to Black-led and Black-serving organizations

Chinedu Wisdom

Christian Missionary Fellowship

“Being supported by a Black-led organization like BBI is powerful. Representation matters, and they truly understand the unique challenges we face. Thanks to the SBCCI grant, we’ve empowered aspiring Black entrepreneurs through the Skill Ignite Program for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, offering $20,000 in seed funding, $10,000 in mentorship support and $4,000 in legal support—addressing core barriers Black entrepreneurs in our community face. To other Black-led non-profit organizations: you’re not alone. There are organizations that understand you and are willing to support you.”

—Chinedu Wisdom, project manager, Christian Missionary Fellowship

Tara Taylor

Charles Taylor Theater and Media Arts Association

“Before receiving funding from BBI, lack of resources was our biggest challenge. Support from BBI including funding, webinars, and grant writing workshops has empowered us to secure further grants and continue creating opportunities for underrepresented talents. It’s so profound to have support from people who look like you and know what they’re doing.”

—Tara Taylor, artistic director, Charles Taylor Theater and Media Arts Association

BBI staff Claudia Bowers, Chiedza Jones, Claire Seremba and Edgar Adda at the Supporting Black Futures Conference.

Wes Hall signing copies of his book at the Black Futures Conference.

BUSINESS IS JAMMIN’ REPORT

This past fiscal year marked a pivotal moment for Business Is Jammin’ (BIJ), as we leaned deeper into our mission of Building Connections and Bridging Gaps beyond Nova Scotia.

In 2024–2025, we engaged 750 youth across the Atlantic provinces, marking a significant investment in neighbouring provinces and closing gaps in access and visibility.

While initiatives like Role Models on the Road and the Youth Leadership Summit continued to spark inspiration, our expansion efforts embodied the spirit of this year’s theme. We deepened our presence in these regions through the BIJ Mentorship Program; Inspiring Youth Through Connections, the BIJ Networking Series and our signature Experiences In: Entrepreneurship event.

These programs were made possible through meaningful collaborations with regional partners—including YIPE, Pure Gold Foundation, PHD Consulting, Dream Pro Services, and Verisult Training & Consulting—who played a vital role in creating safe spaces for youth and grounding BIJ’s work in local communities.

2024–2025 HIGHLIGHTS

750 Youth across Atlantic Canada received entrepreneurial training and skill development

90 Youth participated as vendors in our youth markets, showcasing and selling their products to the public

$15,000

In grants awarded through the BIJ Youth Entrepreneur Empowerment Grant

We also relaunched the Youth Entrepreneur Empowerment Grant, awarding five youth entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada with crucial funding to support development of their businesses. With the continued support of the RBC Future Launch Program, this grant helped create confidence, mentorship, and opportunity.

Our four week-long camps provided youth with immersive learning experiences, with a highlight being the Pixel-Preneurs March Break Camps, where participants learned key creative skills in photography, digital design, and marketing. Thanks to an incredible partnership with GEO Nova Scotia, each camper received an iPad to continue developing their skills after camp ended.

This is just the beginning. BIJ remains deeply committed to inspiring future generations of Black entrepreneurs, and ensuring Black youth have access to the opportunities they need to thrive.

2024 BIJ Youth Summit.

Children hold up iPads received at BIJ’s Pixel-Preneurs March break camp.

“The camp helped me make more friends, taught me entrepreneurial and leadership skills, and how to work together as a team. The people are nice, supportive, and helpful.“

— Anaya Cherenfant

“My experience at the STEM Entrepreneurship Summer Bootcamp was very informative and memorable. This experience has definitely enhanced my future career.”

— Christhon Cunnison

“My experience at the STEM Entrepreneurship Summer Bootcamp and the Pixel-Preneurs March Break Camp exposed me to many great things, from house insulation, conserving energy, to owning my business, pitching it, and getting it running.“

— Thanian Wright

Leading Ladies panel, part of the BIJ Networking Series in celebration of Women’s History Month.

Speakers at BIJ’s Women’s History Month panel.

Anaya Cherenfant

Photo: Basha Koncepts

TREASURER’S REPORT

The 2024–2025 financial statement of the Black Business Initiative (BBI) has been prepared by management in accordance with the Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organisations. Where necessary, it may contain certain items that reflect best estimates and judgment of the management. Management is responsible for ensuring all information in the annual report is consistent with the financial statements and is responsible for its integrity and objectivity. The BBI management maintains financial and management control systems and practices to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are properly authorised and recorded, that financial information is reliable, that assets are safeguarded, liabilities recognised and that operations are carried out effectively.

The Board of Directors’ audit and risk committee, composed of non-management directors, oversees management’s responsibilities for financial reporting. The committee meets regularly with management on compliance and risk management to review internal accounting controls, audit results, accounting principles and practices, as well as review and approve financial statements.

We wish to thank our core funding partners—the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Province of Nova Scotia for their continued financial and non-financial support over the years.

We also wish to extend our appreciation to the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) for funding the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) in the current year. The audit and risk committee thanks our auditors, MNP LLP for their support in auditing the financial statements necessary for the publication of this annual report. I appreciate the time and counsel of my fellow committee members. I also want to acknowledge Ayoola Ogunbiyi, the chief finance officer and his team, without whom this would not have been possible.