Albany, New York, November 16, 2025
The 7th Annual CNYS Black Expo took place in Albany, showcasing the importance of minority-owned businesses in boosting the local economy. Highlighting the theme ‘Equity & Opportunity,’ the event featured over 75 vendors and included the Community Commerce Initiative, which provided attendees with CNYS Black Expo dollars to support local entrepreneurs. A Community & Scholarship Luncheon and various activities and performances enriched the experience, emphasizing community engagement and cultural diversity.
Albany, NY – 7th Annual CNYS Black Expo Celebrates Minority Business Impact
Albany, New York – The 7th Annual Capital of New York State (CNYS) Black Expo took place on November 15, 2025, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center, highlighting the significant contributions of minority-owned businesses to the local economy and community.
Event Overview
The expo, themed “Equity & Opportunity,” featured over 75 vendors, including local entrepreneurs and artisans, offering a diverse range of products and services. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with these businesses, fostering connections and supporting economic growth within the minority community.
Community Commerce Initiative
A standout feature of this year’s expo was the Community Commerce Initiative, aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs. The first attendees to arrive received CNYS Black Expo dollars to spend with participating vendors, encouraging direct investment in the community and promoting local economic development.
Community & Scholarship Luncheon
From 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, a special luncheon was held featuring a guest speaker and the Community Stage Awards Ceremony, honoring local leaders and advocates who have made significant contributions to the community. Proceeds from the luncheon supported the Bluebird Foundation Scholarship Fund, providing educational scholarships to deserving students.
Additional Highlights
- Performances: Live music and dance performances celebrated the rich heritage of the Black community.
- Kids Korner: A designated area for children featured fun activities such as inflatable games, arts and crafts, and interactive entertainment, ensuring families could enjoy the expo together.
- Free Food Samples: The Honest Weight Food Co-op offered free food samples, allowing attendees to taste delicious local cuisine.
- Filming While Black: Soul Fire Farm facilitated engaging discussions on topics pertinent to the community.
- Free Haircuts and Beauty Tips: True Images Barber provided complimentary services, enhancing the expo experience for attendees.
Background
Since its inception in 2018 by Mahogany Connections, the CNYS Black Expo has grown to become the largest event focused on celebrating Black entrepreneurship in the Capital New York region. The expo continues its mission of promoting economic empowerment and community building, providing a platform for minority-owned businesses to showcase their offerings and connect with a broader audience.
Conclusion
The 7th Annual CNYS Black Expo successfully highlighted the impact of minority-owned businesses in Albany, fostering community engagement and economic development. The event underscored the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs and celebrating cultural diversity within the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the CNYS Black Expo?
The CNYS Black Expo is an annual event celebrating Black culture, community, and entrepreneurship, aiming to empower individuals and foster growth within the Capital Region.
When and where was the 7th Annual CNYS Black Expo held?
The 7th Annual CNYS Black Expo took place on November 15, 2025, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, New York.
What was the theme of this year’s expo?
The theme for the 2025 expo was “Equity & Opportunity,” focusing on promoting cultural enrichment and economic empowerment within the Black community.
How many vendors participated in the expo?
Over 75 vendors participated in the expo, showcasing a diverse range of products and services from local entrepreneurs and artisans.
What is the Community Commerce Initiative?
The Community Commerce Initiative was a feature of this year’s expo aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs. The first attendees to arrive received CNYS Black Expo dollars to spend with participating vendors, encouraging direct investment in the community and promoting local economic development.
What was the purpose of the Community & Scholarship Luncheon?
The Community & Scholarship Luncheon, held from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, featured a guest speaker and the Community Stage Awards Ceremony, honoring local leaders and advocates who have made significant contributions to the community. Proceeds from the luncheon supported the Bluebird Foundation Scholarship Fund, providing educational scholarships to deserving students.
What other activities were featured at the expo?
- Performances: Live music and dance performances celebrated the rich heritage of the Black community.
- Kids Korner: A designated area for children featured fun activities such as inflatable games, arts and crafts, and interactive entertainment, ensuring families could enjoy the expo together.
- Free Food Samples: The Honest Weight Food Co-op offered free food samples, allowing attendees to taste delicious local cuisine.
- Filming While Black: Soul Fire Farm facilitated engaging discussions on topics pertinent to the community.
- Free Haircuts and Beauty Tips: True Images Barber provided complimentary services, enhancing the expo experience for attendees.
Who organized the CNYS Black Expo?
The CNYS Black Expo was organized by Mahogany Connections, a network of businesses, community partners, volunteers, and sponsors dedicated to promoting Black culture and entrepreneurship in the Capital Region.
How has the CNYS Black Expo evolved since its inception?
Since its inception in 2018, the CNYS Black Expo has grown to become the largest event focused on celebrating Black entrepreneurship in the Capital New York region, continuing its mission of promoting economic empowerment and community building.
Key Features of the 7th Annual CNYS Black Expo
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Theme | Equity & Opportunity |
| Number of Vendors | Over 75 |
| Community Commerce Initiative | Provided CNYS Black Expo dollars to attendees for spending with participating vendors |
| Community & Scholarship Luncheon | Featured a guest speaker and Community Stage Awards Ceremony; proceeds supported the Bluebird Foundation Scholarship Fund |
| Performances | Live music and dance celebrating Black heritage |
| Kids Korner | Activities for children including inflatable games and arts and crafts |
| Free Food Samples | Local cuisine offered by the Honest Weight Food Co-op |
| Filming While Black | Engaging discussions facilitated by Soul Fire Farm |
| Free Haircuts and Beauty Tips | Complimentary grooming services from True Images Barber |
Now Happening on X
- @CBS6Albany (November 15, 2025): More than 50 small businesses gathered at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center for the 7th annual Capital of New York State Black Expo, celebrating Black culture and entrepreneurship while supporting Albany’s local economy. View on X
- @AlbanyBizReview (November 15, 2025): Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region has expanded into multiple new counties and launched new programs under CEO Ashli Fragomeni. View on X
- @AlbanyBizReview (November 14, 2025): Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region has expanded into multiple new counties and launched new programs under CEO Ashli Fragomeni. View on X
- @AlbanyBID (November 12, 2025): Free session for business leaders and HR pros on resources to empower employees and boost the bottom line, including OJT programs, WIOA, and tax credits, held at the Albany Black Chamber. View on X
- @Albanyjobfair (November 13, 2025): The Albany Job Fair partners with the CNYS Black Expo to create an inclusive job search experience, focusing on entrepreneurship, education, and community engagement. View on X
- @Albanyjobfair (November 11, 2025): Continuing partnership with the CNYS Black Expo to empower job seekers through inclusive opportunities in entrepreneurship and community building. View on X
- @AlbanyBID (November 9, 2025): Join Bettering Your Business, a free info session to help businesses access funding and support resources, connecting with experts and getting questions answered. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
