Queens, New York – The inaugural National Entrepreneur Summit and Expo “New York Edition” held on June 11, 2026, at the Rochdale Village Ballroom in Queens, New York, concluded as a resounding success, bringing together entrepreneurs, small business owners, corporate representatives, nonprofit leaders, government agencies, and community stakeholders from throughout the New York metropolitan region.
The event served as a powerful platform for networking, education, business development, and economic empowerment, demonstrating the continued strength and resilience of small businesses and entrepreneurs throughout New York City and beyond.
Attendees participated in meaningful business discussions, connected with exhibitors and resource partners, explored growth opportunities, and gained valuable insights from industry experts and organizational leaders committed to helping businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
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“The success of this year’s National Entrepreneur Summit and Expo confirms that entrepreneurs are looking for opportunities to connect, learn, and grow,” said Phil Andrews, Founder and Event Chairman. “The enthusiasm and engagement we witnessed throughout the event reinforced the importance of creating spaces where entrepreneurs can access resources, build strategic partnerships, and position themselves for long-term success.”
Rose Ward, Vice President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., praised the Summit’s ability to bring together diverse sectors of the business community.
“The National Entrepreneur Summit and Expo provided entrepreneurs with far more than a networking opportunity it created a learning environment where business owners could connect with experienced professionals, gain practical knowledge, and develop meaningful relationships that can support their growth for years to come,” said Ward.
“The diversity of attendees and the quality of engagement demonstrated the tremendous need for events that bring together entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders under one roof.”
Ward added, “What impressed me most was the willingness of participants to share information, collaborate, and help one another succeed. That spirit of partnership is exactly what strengthens our business community and creates opportunities for long-term economic growth.”
Ann Dumay, Nassau County Director for the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., highlighted the event’s impact on emerging and established businesses alike.
“The National Entrepreneur Summit and Expo showcased the remarkable talent, innovation, and resilience that exists within our entrepreneurial community,” said Dumay. “From startup founders to established business owners, attendees were able to access valuable resources, meet potential partners, and gain exposure to opportunities that can help take their businesses to the next level.”
Dumay continued, “As someone who works closely with entrepreneurs throughout Nassau County, I understand how important it is to have access to organizations and events that provide support, guidance, and connections. This Summit delivered on all three. The success of this inaugural event is a testament to the vision of the organizers and the commitment of everyone who participated. I am excited to see the event grow even larger in 2027.”
Building Momentum for 2027
Following the overwhelming response to this year’s event, organizers have already begun planning for an expanded 2027 National Entrepreneur Summit and Expo that will feature:
• More exhibitors and corporate partners
• Expanded educational workshops and panel discussions
• Greater access to capital and procurement opportunities
• Enhanced networking experiences
• National and regional business leaders
• Increased opportunities for minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, and emerging businesses
Entrepreneurs, business professionals, community organizations, and corporate sponsors are encouraged to join the growing movement and participate in next year’s event.
Strength Through Partnership
The National Entrepreneur Summit and Expo were made possible through the collaboration of three organizations committed to advancing entrepreneurship and economic development:
Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) – New York State’s largest African American Chamber of Commerce, dedicated to advocacy, business development, networking, and access to opportunities for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
The New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (NYCMSBCC) – NYC’s Voice for Minority Small Business, committed to fostering trade, commerce, advocacy, education, and economic growth for minority-owned businesses throughout New York City.
African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. (AASBF) – A nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs through business education, technical assistance, mentorship, access to capital, community engagement, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Event organizers are encouraging attendees and supporters to become members of these organizations to continue benefiting from year-round educational programs, networking events, advocacy efforts, business resources, and strategic partnerships.
Spotlight on the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.
As the event’s principal nonprofit partner, the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. played a critical role in advancing the Summit’s mission of empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening communities through economic development.
Founded to address the challenges faced by African American and underserved entrepreneurs, AASBF provides educational programming, mentorship opportunities, business counseling, resource connections, and strategic partnerships designed to help business owners start, grow, and sustain successful enterprises.
The Foundation’s mission is grounded in the belief that strong businesses create strong communities. By helping entrepreneurs gain access to knowledge, capital, and professional networks, AASBF continues to play a vital role in fostering economic opportunity and wealth creation.
“The African American Small Business Foundation was created to help entrepreneurs transform ideas into sustainable businesses and sustainable businesses into community assets,” said Andrews. “The Foundation’s partnership in the National Entrepreneur Summit and Expo reflects our shared commitment to building stronger businesses, stronger families, and stronger communities.”
