KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!

Black in Business Expo | Saturday, October 24, 2026

We’re excited to welcome you to the Black in Business Expo at Johnson C. Smith University! Whether you’re joining us to shop, network, support local businesses, explore educational opportunities, or enjoy a day of community engagement, here’s everything you need to know before you arrive.

 

📍 Event Location & Directions

Johnson C. Smith University
Lionel H. Newsom Hall – Front Lawn (Humanities Lawn)
Charlotte, North Carolina

Directions: From the university’s main entrance, turn right and continue straight down. The expo will be located directly behind the Jack S. Brayboy Gymnasium on the Humanities Lawn.

View our enhanced campus map to easily locate the event and nearby parking areas.

 

This AI-generated illustration is not an exact representation of the event layout or university grounds. It is intended to provide a general visual overview of the anticipated event setup, including vendor placement, designated activity areas, and the overall flow of the expo. Actual arrangements, locations, and spacing may vary on event day.


🚗 Free Campus-Wide Parking

Parking is absolutely FREE!

Parking is available directly at Lionel H. Newsom Hall and next door at the Jack S. Brayboy Gymnasium.

Attendees may also utilize other designated campus parking areas throughout Johnson C. Smith University.


🎟️ Admission & Event Hours

11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | FREE General Admission

The Black in Business Expo is completely free and open to the public! No admission purchase is required.

Important Arrival Information: General admission begins promptly at 11:00 AM. Attendees should not arrive before this time unless they are registered wristband participants in the Women’s Wellness Rally beginning at 9:30 AM.

 

🚽 Restrooms 

Restrooms are located inside Lionel H. Newsom Hall. 


🎀 Women’s Wellness Rally

9:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Pre-Expo Activation 

Join us for a special Breast Cancer Awareness Walk & Fundraiser before the expo officially opens.

Participation requires the purchase of a $15 wristband. We encourage participants to wear pink in support of breast cancer awareness.

A portion of wristband proceeds will benefit the Elizabeth House Foundation.

 

🛡️ Campus Safety & Security

Your safety and the safety of our university community are important to us.

The following are strictly prohibited:

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Illegal drugs or controlled substances used unlawfully

Campus security personnel will be onsite throughout the event. All attendees are expected to follow university policies, event guidelines, and instructions from authorized personnel.

 

 Family-Friendly Event

All ages are welcome!

The Black in Business Expo is a family-friendly community experience featuring shopping, entrepreneurship, educational opportunities, entertainment, and interactive activities.

Parents and legal guardians are responsible for the supervision, safety, and care of minors accompanying them throughout the event. Children should not be left unattended.

 

🎈 Big Air Charlotte Interactive Activities

We’re excited to welcome our community partner, Big Air Charlotte, for interactive inflatable games, promotional items, and prizes!

Important Inflatable Safety Guidelines:

Per Big Air Charlotte, the inflatable attractions are not bounce houses and are not designed to support human body weight.

Participants must not lean, push, hit, sit, stand, or climb on or inside the inflatable structures. All participants must follow instructions from onsite representatives.

Promotional items and prizes are subject to availability and may vary based on current inventory and seasonal promotions. Specific prizes or promotional items are not guaranteed.

 

What Can You Bring?

We want you to enjoy a comfortable experience at the Black in Business Expo!

Attendees are welcome to bring:

  • Lawn chairs – Bring your own seating to relax and enjoy the outdoor festivities.
  • Blankets – Perfect for relaxing on the lawn.
  • Strollers – Families with young children are welcome.
  • Personal essentials – Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and other weather-appropriate items.

 

📲 Stay Connected for Real-Time Updates

Want important event announcements, updates, and reminders delivered directly to your phone?

Text EXPO to 866-945-8602

Subscribe to our text messaging list to stay informed before and during the event.

 

💛 We Can’t Wait to Welcome You!

Come ready to discover incredible businesses, make meaningful connections, explore community resources, and celebrate entrepreneurship!


FREE ADMISSION • FREE PARKING • ALL AGES WELCOME

It takes community to build community!