Build Businesses. Build Community.

Chapter 2 · Bigger & Better Business

A century-long commitment to entrepreneurship, financial knowledge, Black ownership, and economic empowerment.

Chapter 2 of 3 · 5 min

1924
0 of 3 chapters explored
02

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The Black Business Expo NJ is not separate from the mission of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. It is an expression of that mission.

In December of 1924, at the Fraternity’s Tenth Anniversary Conclave in Philadelphia, Bigger and Better Business became Phi Beta Sigma’s first national program.

Its early purpose was clear: encourage Black businesses to strengthen their knowledge, improve efficiency, serve the public well, and become more competitive.

More than a century later, that commitment continues through entrepreneurship, financial education, business development, intentional support of Black-owned businesses, access to capital and resources, homeownership, and the creation of generational wealth.

Through Bigger and Better Business, Sigma men work to connect people with the knowledge, relationships, and opportunities that can help businesses grow and communities prosper.

That is why the Kappa Upsilon Sigma Chapter is hosting this Expo.

We are creating visibility for entrepreneurs, connecting business owners with resource organizations, encouraging community support, and opening the door to relationships that can continue long after today.

This is more than an event.

This is Bigger and Better Business in action.

Bigger and Better Business poster featuring Phi Beta Sigma’s 1924 program, Black entrepreneurs, four economic-impact priorities, a historical timeline, and the South Jersey commitment.
Physical exhibit artwork · Bigger & Better Business

The blueprintis still active.

For more than a century, Bigger & Better Business has connected entrepreneurship with the knowledge, relationships, and resources businesses need to grow.

At the Black Business Expo NJ, that blueprint becomes action—creating visibility for entrepreneurs, connecting owners with trusted resource partners, encouraging intentional support, and opening doors to relationships that continue beyond Expo day.

Business is the vehicle. Economic empowerment is the destination.

We build stronger businesses so they can build stronger communities.

  1. Build Businesses

    Strengthen the knowledge, systems, resources, and relationships entrepreneurs need to grow.

  2. Circulate Black Dollars

    Encourage intentional support of Black-owned businesses and greater economic activity within our communities.

  3. Create Generational Wealth

    Promote financial literacy, investment, homeownership, and long-term economic stability.

  4. Connect Opportunity

    Link entrepreneurs and families with funding information, professional networks, business resources, and trusted partners.

1924 to Today

Editorial timeline

  1. 1924

    The Vision

    Bigger & Better Business becomes Phi Beta Sigma’s first national program.

  2. Through the generations

    The Work

    Chapters promote entrepreneurship, financial knowledge, business development, and economic advancement.

  3. Today

    The Mission in Action

    The Kappa Upsilon Sigma Chapter brings businesses, professionals, resource organizations, and community members together through the Black Business Expo NJ.