In February 2022, the BNP announced the first 5 participants in their new Minority-Owned Business Initiative (MBI). This initiative seeks to help break through the barriers that have historically challenged minority business ownership and create a pathway to board membership for participants. By giving minority-owned businesses greater access to BNP’s resources, the program’s underwriters aim to help multiply the participant’s success.
Meet our first Cohort
Be part of the next phase
With the success of our first cohort, we are excited to announce that we will soon be accepting applications for the program's next phase.
Interested in participating in the next cohort? Download our Fact Sheet to learn more>
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Interested in sponsoring? Download our Sponsorship Opportunities Flyer to learn more>
From the Blog
BNP’s Minority Business Initiative: Removing Barriers and Creating Opportunities –
The Minority Owned Business Initiative (MBI) is entering its second year in 2023. This initiative seeks to help break through the barriers that have historically challenged minority business ownership and create a pathway to board membership for participants.
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Introducing Minority-Owned Business Initiative Participant: Strickly Business Safety Solutions, LLC
Darrin Strickland is the founder and CEO of Strickly Business Safety Solutions, LLC, a Buffalo-based company providing health and safety preparedness programs and services to clients across New York State. From authorized and certified CPR/AED training and workplace emergency preparedness, to defensive driving courses and babysitter certification, Strickland and his staff help businesses, schools, and individuals be safe and be ready in critical situations.
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Introducing Minority-Owned Business Initiative Participant: Right Fit Recruiting, LLC
For more than two decades, Thaddeus Dunn has recruited and placed executive-level professionals in positions across the country, in industries from medical and financial to non-profit and education. Now, he has established Right Fit Recruiting, LLC here in Buffalo Niagara, bringing his expertise to the local business community with added measures of personalized service and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in executive roles.
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Introducing Minority-Owned Business Initiative Participant: Kiper Moving and Transportation
Deidre Batson Griggs is president of Kiper Moving and Transportation, a company she founded with her husband Dante that offers a full range of residential and commercial moving services, including long-distance and international moving.
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