Creative Network
The Business Exchange is a platform that provides a community to champion and celebrate the personal and career growth of diverse professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs in New Orleans and beyond. The community is convened through immersive events designed for networking and connection. Black people make up 60% of the New Orleans population. Yet, only 24% of our city's businesses are Black-owned, and these businesses receive only two percent of total sales receipts. Black-owned businesses were also hit hardest by COVID-19, dropping 41% during the first months of the crisis.
The Business Exchange creates brave spaces for underrepresented professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, executives, innovators, and industry leaders in the city to share social connections, exchange knowledge and insights, and enhance their personal brands. The success of the event series' unique brand began with developing a comprehensive brand strategy. Extensive market research informed the brand's mission, vision, and values, emphasizing professional connections and inclusivity. Community networking events were meticulously coordinated and featured icebreakers, headshots, prizes, and engagement opportunities to foster meaningful relationships and fuel business and creative growth. The Business Exchange quickly gained popularity in the New Orleans professional community, offering a unique and memorable networking experience that unified a community of leaders dedicated to elevating themselves and the city.
