Oct. 15. In conjunction with Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, Gov. Roy Cooper has declared October 2018 as Minority Enterprise Development Month. The proclamation acknowledges the achievements of minority businesses, corporations and financial institutions that support minority businesses throughout the state.

“Supporting the development of a diverse business community ensures that we have the best and brightest talent tackling our state’s biggest challenges – and with even greater outcomes,” said Cooper. “As economic engines, minority businesses generate thousands of jobs and contribute billions in sales each year, positively impacting our state’s bottom line.”

North Carolina is home to more than 183,000 businesses owned by minorities and women, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency. These businesses achieve more than $16.1 billion in sales annually and employ more than 261,000 North Carolinians.

N.C. Department of Administration Secretary Machelle Sanders addressed MED Week attendees in Greensboro, underscoring the importance of a diverse and inclusive business community in strengthening the state’s economy. Sanders encouraged participation in the State’s Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) program, emphasizing current opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses to work with state government on Hurricane Florence disaster recovery efforts.

Through the end of the year, cities across the state are hosting educational workshops and events that commemorate the achievements of minority entrepreneurs and affirm North Carolina’s commitment to the principle of equal opportunity. Visit the HUB Office website for a list of events.