Minority Entrepreneurs Networking Spring Fling Is Friday, May 25th

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - May 21, 2018 - PRLog -- The Minority Entrepreneurs (ME) invites the public to attend its Spring Fling Network Mix and Mingle on Friday, May 25^th at the Marriott East Hotel. This monthly gathering provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to network and market their products or services to over 200 supportive attendees. Admission is FREE and complimentary wine and appetizers are served in a relaxed setting designed to encourage dialogue and collaboration.  Marriot East Hotel is located at 5795 Poplar Ave and the Spring Fling Network Mix and Mingle begins at 8 p.m.

Minority Entrepreneurs was created in October of 2017 by seasoned business owners Leah Douglass Wooten of Progressive Realty Services and Property Management and Charlton "Chuck" Hildreth of Pascal Construction. They were later joined by several other minority entrepreneurs and together they serve as the core operating members of the Minority Entrepreneurs and make all of the decisions regarding the organization. Over 20 small businesses are showcased each month and the feedback from those participants has been positive. During each event, the importance of supporting minority businesses is expressed by the group to help attendees further understand their purpose.

"We began ME because we saw a void in the minority entrepreneur community. There was not a monthly minority business event that was created with the business owners in mind.  I've attended other business networking events that turned out to be parties with vendors," said Wooten. "Our event is a true effort to allow business owners in the Memphis area to meet like-minded individuals and create relationships we hope will lead to business collaborations while interacting with current and potential customers. We also make sure the attendees feel welcome and enjoy themselves so they will come back each month," she adds.

"If small businesses are going to stay in business we have to do two major things, market ourselves well and support one another. ME's events allow entrepreneurs to do both. Some of our vendors have been with us since the beginning because of the exposure they receive. We've also had several stories of great business relationships being formed after attending a ME networking event. We encourage others to attend to help keep this positive momentum going," said Hildreth.

Small businesses are vital to the growth of the economy. According to 2016 data by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, small businesses provide 55% of all jobs and 66% of all net new jobs since the 1970's. However, only 50% of small businesses will survive 5 years or more. ME is combating this through its efforts. In the future, ME plans to expand its offerings with a membership package suited to the needs of entrepreneurs. This will to help them secure the information, mentoring, skills and funding small businesses need to survive and thrive.

The Minority Entrepreneur's monthly event attracts an array of vendors that offer products and services in the areas of media, professional services, fashion, beauty, health, fitness, literature, desserts, catering, and more. Minority businesses owners who wish to participate can purchase vendor booths for $75. Spots are still available and can be reserved by calling 901.303.3993 or email mevendors@gmail.com. For more information, you can also visit https://www.facebook.com/MinorityEntrepreneurs.