The Minority Business Network (MBN) champions diversity, visibility, and opportunity for professionals from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. Through focused events and initiatives, the committee provides a platform for minority entrepreneurs to share experiences, gain insights, and overcome systemic barriers. Signature programs like “Colorful Conversations” address disparities in critical areas such as healthcare, education, and employment, fostering open dialogue and community-wide awareness. MBN is a key driver in creating a more inclusive, supportive, and equitable business landscape in West Hartford.
The Minority Business Network meets via Zoom the 2nd Thursday of each month at 9:00 am. Current West Hartford Chamber members who, would like to attend a meeting, please contact kate@whchamber.com.
Colorful Conversations is a quarterly panel discussion series designed to take a deep dive into issues that disproportionately impact minority populations. We invite experts from across the country to educate the community on topics of interest, and propose solutions to the issues faced. Past topics include Healthcare, Education, Access to Technology, and Employment. The forum streams live via Zoom, on Facebook, and through our partnership with West Hartford Interactive Television. The recordings are housed on the Chamber’s YouTube channel.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, our September 2025 panel will explore the contributions and impact of the Hispanic community.
You can find the attendee handout with the panel information here
Fourth Friday Pizza Lunch
The Minority Business Network hosts an open networking event at Luna Pizza on the fourth Friday of each month. This informal, drop-in creates an opportunity to meet and mingle with other area professionals in a fun and engaging environment. Pizza lunch is free to attend (lunch specials are available to purchase), and open to all.
Black History Month Breakfast
Black History Month provides an opportunity to go beyond stories of racism and slavery to better understand the Black experience and spotlight ongoing Black achievements. MBN launched our Signature Event as a platform to explore these topics while celebrating the Minority Business Network and the work it does in supporting our community.
MBN Black History Month Breakfast, 2/23/24
Milestones to Mountaintops: The Black Professionals' Ascent
