PROVEN IMPACT. REAL RESULTS.

7+ Years of Service

Serving Central New York for over seven years through consistent, community-driven programming

+1,500 Vendors

Supporting over 100 Black-owned and local businesses each year with real visibility and sales opportunities

+30,000 attendees

Connecting thousands of attendees with businesses, resources, and cultural experiences every year



Our Legacy: Building Connections, Empowering Futures

mission

Empowerment through education, business, and community

vision

Building relationships, creating opportunities, exchanging information

legacy

Introduction to Founder Tatiana Cunningham and honor Annette DeLavallade’s vision

Get Involved with the CNYS Black Expo

Choose how you want to make an impact – as a business, a brand partner, or a community leader

VENDORS

Showcase Your Business

Connect directly with thousands of attendees, grow your customer base, and gain visibility in Central New York’s premier Black-owned business expo

SPONSORS

Elevate Your Brand

Align your organization with a trusted community event while gaining meaningful brand exposure and engagement opportunities

COMMUNITY

Volunteer & Lead

Support the Expo behind the scenes, represent the mission, and help drive community impact through leadership and service

Voices of the Expo: Why Attendees and Partners Return

“As an entrepreneur myself we understand what it takes to go from table to brick and mortar to systems and sales funnels. I’m excited to see the vibrance of Black businesses in this area, because it’s definitely needed. All of Buffalo, Albany, Schenectady and Troy… Everybody should be here!”

– DeSean M. Moore, CEO

Moore Than Vision / Collective Effort – Partner

“Attending the CNYS Black Business Symposium was an enlightening experience. The range of topics discussed, the diverse perspectives shared, and the passionate speakers all came together to create an event that left me feeling inspired and empowered. It’s a testament to the organizers’ commitment to fostering important conversations and promoting inclusivity. I’m grateful to have been a part of this impactful symposium.”

LaQuetta Alexander-Ellis – Founder/Owner/CEO/Educator

Practice 2 Perfect TC

“The CNYS Black Expo is the gift that keeps on giving. Having the privilege and opportunity to volunteer for the expo in a leadership role for the past 4+ years is truly a great honor. The CNYS Black Expo has definitely expanded my growth and development as evidence by new connections, networking, and the building up of my personal and professional skills and character. Tatiana and her staff are truly examples of what black excellence looks like.”

Tyhisha Ghaffar-Adjei, Founder –

The Guardians of Al-Fitrah

“In 2021, I was initially just going to attend the gala for my company but when I viewed pictures from prior years and saw they needed volunteers I thought to myself: “I’m definitely doing that!” The vendors, the entertainment, and the gala all fantastic! I enjoyed every second of it, and made sure I signed up for 2023. In 2022, my second year volunteering, I had some help, my 13 year old daughter and 3 of her friends. I think young people need to see good things to want to do good things, and this was the perfect opportunity! They were so happy to see so much Black excellence in the Capital District and the vendors were happy to talk to the girls about their products/services and happy to give wisdom about entrepreneurship. They are so excited to help in 2023 with me!!”

Aisha E. White, Ambassador

CNYS Black Expo

Thanks to Our Past Sponsors

Interested in being a 2026 Sponsor?  CLICK HERE

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Thank You for Celebrating Black Excellence in the Capital of New York State for 7 Years!

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