Since 1983, The U.S. President has proclaimed a national MED Week observance to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of minority business enterprises and to honor those corporations and financial institutions supporting minority business development.

Durham’s MED Week celebrates the achievements of minority entrepreneurs and affirms government, business and community organizations’ commitment to the principle of equal opportunity. Our theme for 2022 is being finalized. The mission of Durham’s MED Week is to recognize and celebrate the contributions of minority and women owned businesses to the economic vibrancy of our community and promote their continued growth and success. Through a week-long series of educational outreach and recognition events, we proudly support the development of diverse businesses in Durham.

Here are the events:

Monday, 10/3, 9am – noon: MED Week Kickoff Event – Durham City Hall Council Chambers

This event is open to the public and will begin by introducing team members of the Underutilized Business Compliance Division in the City’s Finance Department. The event will also share more details about cross-boundary collaboration between governments, nonprofits, and for-profit corporations in pursuing economic equity.

Additional speakers at this event include Mayor Elaine O’Neal; Director Andre Pettigrew with the City’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development; Underutilized Business Compliance Division Manager Sidney Anderson with the City’s Finance Department; and Coordinator Keisha Davis with Durham County’s Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) Program.

Tuesday, 10/4, 4pm – 6pm: MBEs in Construction – Current and Future Opportunities, Location: Durham Public Schools Staff Development Center, 2107 Hillandale Road, Durham, NC.

There are many current and future opportunities for minority business enterprises in the construction arena. Join us to learn about some of the projects that are currently underway and some projects to come. Presenters include Durham Public Schools, Samet Corporation, LeChase, and more.

Wednesday, 10/5, 1 0am – 12pm: Our Annual Report Card (Virtual)

Durham’s public and private institutions have made commitments to supporting the growth and development of minority business enterprises through various initiatives. This first-time event is an opportunity to highlight our strengths and opportunities. Which public and private institutions are making the grade? What can we learn from them? Which institutions need a lot of support? How can we support them?