Message From Executive Director

Message from Ernesto Kalema, Founder and Executive Director of ACANEA:

“As the Executive Director of the Afro-Canadian Entrepreneurs Association (ACANEA), I am honored to share how our organization is making a significant impact on the lives of Black Francophone entrepreneurs in Alberta and across Canada, ultimately contributing to the broader Canadian economy.

ACANEA was established with a clear mission: to support and empower Black Francophone entrepreneurs who face unique challenges due to language barriers and systemic inequities. Our work is centered on providing tailored resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities that enable our members to overcome these challenges and succeed in their entrepreneurial journeys.

Our programs are designed to address the specific needs of our community. We offer business development workshops, financial literacy training, and access to capital, all aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive. We also facilitate connections with industry leaders, potential partners, and other entrepreneurs, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages growth and innovation.

The impact of our work extends beyond individual success stories. By empowering Black Francophone entrepreneurs, we are contributing to the diversification and resilience of Canada’s economy. Our members are creating jobs, driving innovation, and enriching the cultural fabric of our society. ACANEA’s efforts are not just about business success; they are about creating a more inclusive and equitable economic landscape for all Canadians.

Through our advocacy, we strive to ensure that the voices of Black Francophone entrepreneurs are heard at all levels of government and industry. We believe that by working together, we can create lasting change and build a future where every entrepreneur, regardless of language or background, has the opportunity to succeed.”

How We Drive Impact

The Afro-Canadian Entrepreneurs Association (ACANEA) achieves its impact through a series of targeted initiatives designed to address the specific challenges Black Francophone entrepreneurs face in Alberta, particularly in finance, language barriers, ethnocultural identity, anti-racism, and community building. Here’s how they accomplish this:

Business Support and Resource

• Access to Capital and Funding Support: ACANEA works to bridge the gap in access to finance by providing microfinance and financial literacy programs tailored to the needs of Black Francophone Entrepreneurs. This helps them overcome financial barriers that may hinder the start-up or expansion of their businesses. • Partnerships with Financial Institutions: ACANEA partners with banks and other financial institutions to advocate for more inclusive lending practices. By doing so, they help their members (Entrepreneurs) secure the funding they need while ensuring that these institutions recognize and address the unique challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs.

Business Development and Language Support

• Bilingual Services and Resources: Recognizing the language barriers in a predominantly Anglophone region, ACANEA offers bilingual (French and English) services, workshops, and business resources. This ensures that Francophone entrepreneurs can fully understand and utilize the tools available to them. • Translation and Interpretation Services: To further assist those who may struggle with English, ACANEA provides translation and interpretation services for business documents, contracts, and legal matters, helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of business in an English-speaking environment.

Ethnocultural Identity Promotion

• Cultural Integration in Business: ACANEA encourages entrepreneurs to incorporate their cultural heritage into their business models, whether through products, services, or branding. This not only preserves cultural identity but also adds unique value to their offerings in the marketplace. • Cultural Events and Networking: ACANEA organizes cultural events and networking opportunities where members can showcase their businesses, connect with like-minded individuals, and celebrate their shared heritage. This fosters a sense of community and belonging among Black Francophone entrepreneurs.

Anti-Racism Advocacy in Business

• Training on Anti-Racism and Inclusivity: ACANEA provides training sessions focused on anti-racism, inclusivity, and diversity in business. These sessions help entrepreneurs understand how to create inclusive workplaces and navigate the challenges of systemic racism in their business operations. • Advocacy for Policy Changes: ACANEA advocates for policy changes that address systemic racism in the business world. By working with government bodies and industry leaders, they push for more equitable practices that support the success of Black entrepreneurs.

Community Building and Support

• Mentorship Programs: ACANEA runs mentorship programs that connect established entrepreneurs with newcomers. These relationships provide guidance, support, and knowledge-sharing that are crucial for the success of emerging businesses. • Community Resources and Support Networks: The association creates support networks where members can share resources, seek advice, and collaborate on projects. This sense of community helps entrepreneurs overcome challenges together and reinforces their collective strength.

Job Placement Services

• Tailored Job Matching: ACANEA, in partnership with Manpower, offer job placement services specifically tailored to the skills and experiences of Black Francophone job seekers. This includes matching individuals with job opportunities that align with their qualifications, interests, and career goals. • Dedicated Job Portals: By working with Manpower, ACANEA can create dedicated job portals that focus on opportunities from employers who are committed to diversity and inclusion. These portals can feature job listings that are particularly welcoming to Black Francophone candidates

We are committed to help Black Entrepreneurs and small businesses Owners by providing accessing to programs that empower their businesses to next step.

Since the Afro-Canadian Entrepreneurs Association launched in 2020, we have helped hundred Black Entrepreneurs with thousands of hours of coaching, training, access to capital and grants to take their business to the next steps. We contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefit the entire province of Alberta, fostering economic growth, innovation, and social progress.