The Black Manitobans Chamber of Commerce (BMCC) would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, and the Government of Canada for their continued commitment to strengthening Black
entrepreneurship across the country. In September 2024, BMCC and its members had the opportunity to meet with Minister Valdez to discuss the challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs in Manitoba in accessing federal support programs. 

During that meeting, we raised concerns that federal initiatives intended to support Black businesses were often administered through organizations located outside Manitoba, limiting their ability to reach entrepreneurs in our province.

BMCC subsequently submitted a formal petition requesting a dedicated allocation of Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) funding for the Province of Manitoba, emphasizing the importance of locally rooted organizations in ensuring equitable access to federal programs. 

Following the 2024 Fall Economic Statement, which extended the Black Entrepreneurship Program with an investment of $189 million over five years, we were encouraged to receive confirmation on December 19, 2024 that the Government of Canada had approved a dedicated funding allocation for Manitoba within the renewed program. The official launch of the renewed Black Entrepreneurship Program on October 20, 2025 represents an important milestone in ensuring that Black entrepreneurs across Canada including those in Manitoba have improved access to capital, mentorship, and ecosystem support. 

This outcome demonstrates the value of constructive dialogue between community organizations and government partners. BMCC believes that policies are strongest when they reflect the lived realities of the entrepreneurs they are intended to support. As the first bilingual Black Chamber of Commerce in Canada, BMCC remains committed to working collaboratively with federal partners, financial institutions, and ecosystem stakeholders to strengthen Manitoba’s Black business community. We look forward to continuing this partnership and ensuring that the renewed Black Entrepreneurship Program delivers meaningful impact for entrepreneurs in Manitoba.

Sincerely,
Dr. Zita Somakoko
Founder & President
Black Manitobans Chamber of Commerce (BMCC)