Small businesses owned by people of color, both within Quinnipiac University and the surrounding communities, will come together Feb. 3 as vendors in a dynamic pop-up shop and festive gathering.
QU’s M&T Bank Center for Women and Business and its M&T Bank Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will hold its third Sip & Shop, a vibrant series focused on entrepreneurship, diversity and unity, from 1-5 p.m. in the Recreation and Wellness Center on the Mount Carmel Campus.
The event is free and open to the public. Click here to register to attend.
Launched in 2022 by the Center for Women and Business and spearheaded by Danisha Collins, administrative assistant of Global Health Programs at QU’s Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Sip & Shop has served as a platform for female entrepreneurs of color in order for them to connect with potential clients.
Tuvana Rua, associate professor of management, co-director of the M&T Bank Center for Women and Business and director of the ConnCORP/QU Community Entrepreneurship Academy and Clinics, and Tamilla Triantoro, associate professor of business analytics and information systems, faculty coordinator of the master’s in business analytics program and co-director of the M&T Bank Center for Women and Business, have worked together to carry the event to its next level.
“We are elevating the experience into a festival-like atmosphere complete with live music, a DJ, an array of food trucks and an overall festive environment — making it a unique and vibrant celebration of entrepreneurship and community,” Rua said.
During the event, participating vendors will have the opportunity to network with fellow business owners, meet potential mentors and engage with representatives from different resources, including M&T Bank, the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC), Grameen America, ConnCORP, CTNext, CitySeed and various Chambers of Commerce from surrounding communities.
“The M&T Bank Center for Women and Business has been actively forging connections across Connecticut, collaborating with these influential organizations. We are also teaming up with local artists to promote their music and art during the event, adding a creative flair to the atmosphere,” Rua said.
Emphasizing the multifaceted approach to community enrichment, Rua underscored that the initiative extends beyond creating meaningful connections and supporting local businesses. According to Rua, the event serves as a pivotal platform by bridging the gap often faced by small businesses striving for wider exposure and support.
“This event is a fantastic opportunity for community building, aligning perfectly with our mission to assist women and their allies to achieve their professional goals. Oftentimes, small businesses don’t have access to the resources necessary to promote their offerings to a broader community. Our initiative aims to bridge that gap,” Rua said.
Additionally, there will be a range of resources available including representation from organizations that specialize in offering loans and educational opportunities. These resources are designed to support and enhance the growth and future development of these businesses.
The event stands as an essential celebration of diversity and entrepreneurship within our community, providing opportunities for the businesses of the future.
“We believe in the power of community to uplift and empower small businesses, and this event is a vibrant expression of that belief,” Triantoro said.
To Learn more about M&T Bank Centers, visit qu.edu/innovation and qu.edu/womenandbusiness.