August is National Black Business Month, Groupon is partnering with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to offer three virtual panel discussions for merchants during the month of August that bring together a national audience of government officials and Black business community leaders. The series will help bring more attention to the disparities Black entrepreneurs face and highlight resources available to help their businesses succeed.

 

“To protect our Black businesses, Illinois has continued to deploy resources to lift up businesses hit hardest during the crisis, and to continue leveling the playing field for Black businesses. On behalf of Governor Pritzker, we thank Groupon for advancing the conversation around how to remove barriers and better support Black businesses in Illinois and around the country.” Michael Negron, Acting DCEO Director.

 

Throughout the month, Groupon will continue its #PassTheMic social media campaign where the company has turned over its collective audience of 22 million followers to amplify and uplift Black voices and merchant success stories.

 

Upcoming webinars:

August 13, 2020 02:00 p.m. – Doing Business with Government

Register HERE

 

August 20, 2020 02:00 p.m. – Black Business Lending: Access to Capital & Tax Incentives

Register HERE

 

August 27, 2020 02:00 p.m. – Navigating COVID-19 and Civil Unrest: Federal and State Financial Resources for Black Businesses

Register HERE

 

For more information on webinars hosted by Illinois Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE) to celebrate National Black Business Month click HERE

To learn more about Groupon’s community-building efforts, please visit: community.groupon.com.