Social Responsibility Group
Enriching The Lives of The Disenfranchised
Thank you for Attending the Alexandria Diversity in Business Expo
One City. Many Voices. Endless Opportunities.
The 2025 Alexandria Diversity in Business Expo was a city-wide celebration of culture, commerce, and community. Rooted in a legacy of advocacy and leadership, the Expo brought together minority-owned and underrepresented businesses, corporate leaders, policymakers, and community champions to create real pathways to success.
The event began with an engaging seminar led by influential community leaders, offering tools, insights, and inspiration. After the seminar, the Expo opened to the public, featuring a vibrant space filled with local, diverse businesses sharing their stories, services, and impact.
Plan Your Day at the Expo
Morning Seminar
10:00 AM–1:00 PM
The morning featured inspiration and insight from:
Pastor Lou | President, Social Responsibility Group
Session: Welcome & Opening Remarks
Mayor Alyia Gaskins | Mayor, City of Alexandria
Opening Keynote: Corporate Diversity
Councilman John T. Chapman | City Council Member, Alexandria
Policy Keynote: Local Leadership & Business Growth
Angel Livas | CEO & Founder, ALIVE Podcast Network
Session: Building Your Brand: How Personal Storytelling Fuels Business Success
Moderator, Howard Jean | CEO & Founder, Black Meta Agency
Panel: Think Big, Build Smart: Using AI & Emerging Tech to Operate Like a Large Enterprise
This candid panel unpacked how artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies helped businesses punch above their weight—streamlining operations, elevating customer experience, and unlocking new revenue without bloating payroll. Leaders who had implemented AI across marketing, finance, HR, and service delivery shared what worked, what flopped, and how they won buy-in from their teams.
Moderator, Chantrell M. McCormick, MBA | Business Relationship Banker, SECU
Panel: Unlocking Capital: Breaking Barriers to Business Funding
The seminar equipped entrepreneurs, small business owners, and startups with the knowledge and resources needed to secure funding and grow their ventures. The session covered various financing options—including traditional bank loans, credit unions, and venture capital—while providing actionable insights into preparing strong funding proposals, understanding lender requirements, and improving financial readiness. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with financial experts, network with peers, and gain practical tools to navigate the complex world of business financing.
Vendor Showcase
1:30–3:30 PM
Attendees explored Alexandria’s vibrant small business scene—meeting dozens of diverse, local vendors offering unique goods and services, and supporting the businesses shaping our city’s future.
Explore the incredible lineup of vendors who participated below.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We were proud to partner with these Gold, Silver, and Platinum Sponsors whose support made this event possible.
Authentic Ground builds beautiful, clear, and purposeful websites and graphics that reflect the heart of ministries and equip them to reach, serve, and grow their communities online.
Meet Our Vendors
Support Alexandria’s local businesses and explore a diverse range of products and services.
Burke & Herbert Mortgage
Simplifying the mortgage process while promoting affordable housing, financial literacy, and community development.
Capstone
Building an “Adobe suite for career development” with integrated professional growth tools.
Manumission Tour Company
Curating guided cultural heritage tours designed to highlight Alexandria’s extensive African American history.h African American history.
Insight Network Inc.
Empowering others with insight and support to reach their educational and financial goals.
Three.Ten
Handcrafted skincare using natural, premium ingredients to inspire women.
Rosy Rocs
Handmade “Dressy Jewelry for Everybody” inspiring hope and confidence.
Laura Hatcher Photography
Award-winning photographer dedicated to capturing professional headshots and military ceremonies.
Milk & Honey
Serving soulful Southern cuisine with a modern twist, Milk & Honey offers scratch-made classics and bold new favorites. Coming soon to Old Town Alexandria this July!
Truist Bank
Focused on inspiring and building better lives and communities.reate lasting impact.
SECU
Maryland’s largest credit union with 23 financial centers and 50,000+ free ATMs
Alexandria Chamber of Commerce
Advocacy-based nonprofit with 950+ member businesses.ate lasting impact.
Spot Me Wear Inc.
Apparel brand promoting mutual support and empowerment.create lasting impact.
SHRED IT BLUEZ
Custom handmade sustainable denim bags, each unique.
Military Children’s Six Foundation
Advocacy and leadership development for military-connected youth and underserved communities.
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Friends of Dorothy Cafe
Queer-owned café fostering community and amplifying LGBTQ+ artists.
Make No Excuses
Veteran-owned business blending wellness products with sustainable fitness programs.te lasting impact.
Joyous Events
Woman- and minority-owned event management company.
Alexandria Minority Business Association
Advocating for and promoting Alexandria’s minority-owned small businesses.
ALIVE Podcast Network
Home of unapologetically Black voices and authentic storytelling.
UpCycle Creative Reuse Center
Nonprofit turning donated creative materials into affordable art resources.
Southern Belle Cleaners
Commercial and residential cleaning with a focus on hoarding prevention.
Smith Enterprises LLC
Tax preparation and financial consulting with over 25 years’ experience.
2K Home Services LLC
Household repair services with reliable, experienced handymen.
For Us Therapeutics
Black-owned therapy practice serving the community with professional care.rdable art resources.
Our Purpose Behind the Expo
Alexandria is home to a wide array of minority-owned businesses, many of which have long faced barriers to visibility, access, and growth. The Alexandria Diversity in Business Expo was created to change that.
We believe that when diverse voices are empowered and supported, our entire city thrives. This Expo is not just a showcase, it’s a movement toward equity, representation, and lasting opportunity for all.
Support the Future of Local Business
As planning begins for the next Alexandria Diversity in Business Expo, we’re laying the groundwork for another powerful celebration of culture, commerce, and community.
Your donation fuels this mission, helping us support diverse businesses, spark collaboration, and create pathways for lasting impact.
Every dollar sows into a future where Alexandria’s diversity continues to thrive.
Anonymous donations are always welcome and deeply appreciated.
Give today and help us shape what’s next.