BLEND Program (Cohort 1.3)

 

The Oak Park Black & Latine Business Support Network — known as BLEND — is more than a program. It’s a movement.

BLEND stands for Black and Latine Entrepreneurship, Networks, and Development — a name that reflects our core mission: to support, connect, and grow Black and Latine-owned businesses right here in Oak Park.

Designed to uplift and invest in the brilliance of these entrepreneurs, BLEND brings together both emerging and established business owners to build a stronger, more inclusive local economy. Through expert-led sessions, peer collaboration, and practical resources, BLEND delivers the knowledge, community, and momentum that drive real business success — now and into the future!

Cohort 1 focuses on Micro & Emerging Businesses. These sessions will be held monthly for half of the day. Below are the dates and times:

1. Navigating Oak Park’s Economic Vitality Infrastructure - (9/20/25)
○ How to access village resources and collaborate with local institutions.

2. How to Do Business in a Predominantly White Environment (PWE) - (10/18/25)
○ Navigating cultural dynamics and leveraging unique business strengths in a PWE context.

3. Marketing for Emerging Businesses - (11/15/25)
○ Focus on resource-light marketing strategies that build brand presence.

4. Human Resources - (12/13/25)
○ Building a small, capable team and developing leadership skills.

5. Accounting & Finance Basics - (1/17/25)
○ Financial literacy tailored for new businesses, including managing cash flow and securing funding.

6. Communications: Brand Storytelling - (2/21/25)
○ How to craft an authentic, compelling business narrative.

7. Operations: Scaling Your Business - (3/21/25)
○ Practical steps for growing and scaling, from managing inventory to expanding customer base.