St. Pete Expo Celebrates Black-Owned Businesses

In St. Petersburg, Florida, local entrepreneurs are preparing for the Neighborhood Commercial Business Expo as part of National Black Business Month. This event will showcase Black-owned businesses and highlight the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape in the region. Heavy’s Restaurant, run by Katrina Smith Headley and her family, exemplifies the strong community ties often found in these businesses. Similarly, Elaine Chambliss Dogan's art studio, Echambliss Art, embodies the spirit of local familiarity and comfort.

According to Pew Research Center, Florida boasts approximately 18,000 Black-owned businesses, the highest in the nation. Economic development manager George Smith emphasizes St. Petersburg's commitment to diversity and inclusion for small businesses. The expo, scheduled for Friday, aims to foster connections between entrepreneurs and the community. With ongoing growth in the downtown area and historic Gas Plant, there are promising opportunities for Black-owned businesses in St.

Petersburg.