Today is the day that The Exchange at Beverly Gray is officially opening Ignite Labs – a new business incubator with co-working space, specifically serving underrepresented and BIPOC entrepreneurs and business owners in Western NY.
The Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center – a central East Side business hub – first opened in January of 2019. Now, in partnership with the Western New York Incubator Network out of the University at Buffalo, The Exchange is focusing on providing mentorship, coaching, funding resources, and entrepreneurial engagement to the underserved East Buffalo community.
Throughout the month of August, The Exchange participated in a series of events, workshops, discussions, etc., as part of a broader Buffalo Black Business Month Celebration.
Today the celebration continues with The Business Of Art, which coincides wit the opening of Ignite Labs, as well as a community fruit bag giveaway (first come first serve) sponsored by the African Heritage Food Co-op (starting at noon). Then, at 5:30pm, there will be food vendors, an art walk, and live music.
The celebration and ribbon cutting is thanks to the efforts of Derrick Parson (Executive Director of The Exchange), Chantele Thompson (City of Buffalo Chief Diversity Officer), and Legislator Howard Johnson.
The Exchange at Beverly Gray, 334 E Utica St, Buffalo, NY 14208