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.
A Night of Business Opportunity & Connection
MBE Night in Annapolis has become the state of Maryland's signature event designed to expand awareness, build relationships, and elevate the visibility of diverse and underrepresented business communities. The event convenes state agency professionals, business leaders, and community stakeholders to share insights and promote access to existing procurement pathways and partnerships.
MBE Night is a powerful opportunity to:
• Explore timely insights from respected industry experts and professionals in the public and private sectors
• Learn about current state resources and procurement processes to help navigate opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses
• Build relationships and exchange ideas with agency representatives, business executives, and peer organizations.
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
Disclaimer:
MBE Night in Annapolis is an independently organized outreach and networking event focused on education, business development, and increasing access to existing procurement opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses. This event is not intended to influence legislative or executive action, nor does it include advocacy for changes to policy, law, or regulation. Participation by public officials is voluntary and for informational purposes only.