Second Annual Best of Black Businesses Awards: Excellence, Innovation, and Economic Empowerment.

The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder and Sister Spokesman invite you to celebrate the local entrepreneurs making an impact at this signature event.

This second annual celebration honors the 2026 Honorees you voted for, with first, second, and third place in each category revealed live on stage.

Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Noon โ€“ 3 PM – Tickets: $25.00

Center for Performing Arts
3754 Pleasant Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55409

What to Expect:

  • Awards Presentation: The live reveal of first, second, and third place among the 2026 Honorees in all five categories.
  • Networking: Meaningful connection with the Twin Cities’ business owners.
  • The Vibe: Enjoy a full meal, shopping, and the signature community connection that defines Sister Spokesman.

Meet the 2026 Honorees

Food & Drink: Flava Cafe, Golden Thyme, Jersey Jo’s Philly Cheesesteaks and More

Hair & Nails: Cashmere Lux Beauty Salon, Hayat Beauty Salon, Ja’Lisa’s Gorgeous Extensions

Health & Wellness: Jungle 612, Reviving Roots Therapy & Wellness, Spyce Pilates

Retail & Merchandise: Black Garnet Books, Nature’s Syrup, Strive Bookstore

Professional Services: Blck Press, BLK Mortgage Company, Lovely’s Sewing and Arts, Minuteman Press Uptown


Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a community supporter, this event is for you.

Enjoy a formal awards presentation, shopping with local vendors, a delicious meal, and networking with businesses.

Let’s uplift the businesses that power our neighborhoods!

Event tickets are $25, with optional lunch tickets available for purchase on site.


Bachmanโ€™s Floral

Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Noon – 3 pm

Center for Performing Arts
3754 Pleasant Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55409

Get directions >

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Sister Spokesman is a nonprofit event series

Sister Spokesman is a nonprofit event series created to uplift, connect, and celebrate African American women in the Twin Cities. As part of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorderโ€™s commitment to community engagement, MSR Publisher Tracey Williams-Dillard founded Sister Spokesman in response to the need for welcoming spaces that center the voices, experiences, and joy of Black women.

Each gathering offers meaningful conversation on topics that matter, along with music, giveaways, shopping, and opportunities to build genuine connections.

The Sister Spokesman vendor market is a thriving space for Black entrepreneurs to showcase their products, grow their customer base, and circulate dollars within the community. It is both a marketplace and a celebration of local talent, creativity, and economic empowerment.


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