Oklahoma City’s 6th annual Minority Enterprise Development Week took place from October 7th to 11th, focusing on minority-owned businesses in the metro area. The week highlighted their successes and connected them to a wider network of entrepreneurs. 

This year’s theme was "Rise Above: Conquering Challenges and Building Legacies." The event featured 17 activities across the city, including educational workshops, panels, and webinars aimed at strengthening the minority business ecosystem.

Venture capital studios in Oklahoma City are more than just funding sources; they are hubs of innovation, providing critical support structures for startups. They offer a blend of investment, strategic guidance, mentorship, and networking opportunities that are essential for the growth and sustainability of new ventures.

In Oklahoma's emerging startup ecosystem, i2E and Plains Ventures stand out as vital pillars supporting entrepreneurial endeavors. i2E, a nonprofit organization founded in 1998, specializes in providing early-stage guidance, programs, and advising services, helping startups lay solid foundations and navigate their markets effectively.

In the world of Oklahoma’s public industry, Krystal Yoseph stands out from the crowd-- shaping narratives and building brands in her own backyard. With a passion for storytelling, Krystal has made unique strides in her career, leaving an undeniable impact on Oklahoma City at large.

Since its inception, i2E has played a crucial role in Oklahoma's entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing a wide range of services and support to startups and early-stage companies. These services include mentoring, funding, business development assistance, access to networks, and specialized programs aimed at accelerating the growth

J.D. Baker, the future Chair of OKC's Black Chamber of Commerce, engages in a compelling dialogue with DeAndre Martin, shedding insights on his career, familial roots, and economic insights. Through his blog, "Sankofahoma," J.D. endeavors to rekindle the rich tapestry of Black narratives, breathing life into forgotten stories and celebrating the enduring legacy of Black heritage in Oklahoma.