Founded in 2009, MBE Night in Annapolis stands as the largest conference for minority businesses in Maryland. This event provides an unparalleled networking opportunity, bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, legislators, and state officials to champion diversity, inclusion, and economic empowerment.
The 2025 MBE Night in Annapolis will celebrate our years of service as a significant platform for fostering diversity, inclusion, and economic empowerment within the minority business community in the state of Maryland. Last year, MBE Night in Annapolis welcomed over 1,000 attendees from across the state. Join us for an evening of economic opportunity.
Engage. Discuss. Connect. Learn.
Location: The Westin Annapolis | 5 pm - 9 pm
100 Westgate Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401
Founded in 2009 by former Delegate Herman Taylor in partnership with state officials and civic organizations, MBE Night in Annapolis was established to address some of the obstacles that prevent these businesses from achieving success.
Since its inception, MBE Night in Annapolis has served as an integral advocacy partner in supporting the Legislative Black Caucus, fostering collaboration to dismantle systemic barriers and amplify businesses while addressing historical disparities to cultivate a more inclusive and equitable Maryland.
MBE Night in Annapolis has served as a cornerstone in connecting legislators, state agencies, business leaders, and underrepresented groups to share insights, resources, and strategize tangible actions to strengthen minority businesses in the state.
MBE Night is an exciting opportunity to:
• Engage in thought-provoking discussions led by industry experts and business leaders.
• Gain insights into legislation and procurement opportunities
• Network with legislators, state agency officials, business leaders, and community groups
5:00pm
Arrival & Networking with Exhibitors
5:45 pm
Greetings from Hosts of Ceremonies
Sharrarne Morton - MC, CEO, Black Door Society
5:50 pm
Opening Remarks
Herman Taylor - Founder, MBE Night in Annapolis
5:55 pm
Welcome Video
Governor Wes Moore - Governor of Maryland
6:00 pm
Special Remarks
Aruna Miller - Lieutenant Governor
Angela Alsobrooks - United States Senator
Chris Van Hollen - Maryland Senator
Adrienne Jones - Maryland Speaker of the House
Brooke Lierman - Comptroller of Maryland
Dereck Davis - Maryland State Treasuer
Dawn Medley - President and CEO of FSC First
6:30 pm
Opening Remarks
Jheanelle Wilkins - Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus of MD
6:35 pm
Fireside Chat
Jheanelle Wilkins - Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus of MD
Wallace Sermons - DGS Chief Procurement Officer
7:20 pm
Panel 2: Major State Opportunities - "Expanding Economic Opportunity for Communities"
Delegate. N. Scott Phillips, District 10
Harry Coker, JR., Esq. -Maryland Acting Secretary of Dept of Commerce
Jake Day - Maryland Secretary of Department of Housing and Community Development
Ricky Smith - Executive Director/CEO, Maryland Aviation Administration
Candance-Dodson Reed - Chief of Staff, Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO)
Wayne, Thomas, SR. VP. Eastern District, Kiewit Corporation
8:35 pm
Closing Remarks
Sharrarne Morton - MC, CEO, Black Door Society
8:40-9:00 pm
Networking
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For event questions and general inquiries, please fill out the contact form or email info@mbeannapolis.com
MBE Night in Annapolis features an evening of:
• Keynote Speeches
• Contract Opportunities
• Networking and resources for MBEs