Black Business Networking Project Expands Outreach
The networking initiative offers entrepreneurship training and a service-first model for Black-owned businesses.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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The Better Black Business Project, a networking initiative for Black entrepreneurs, currently supports more than 100 members. Founded by sales professional LeBrent Speed, the program provides entrepreneurship training for youth and justice-impacted individuals.
Why it matters
The project uses a service-first networking model to connect and support Black-owned businesses. Speed established the initiative to integrate community support with professional commerce growth.
The initiative currently maintains a base of over 100 members, down from a peak of 150. LeBrent Speed leverages his 30 years of professional experience in sales and real estate to lead the organization.
The players
LeBrent Speed
A veteran sales professional and regional director for Business Network International with 30 years of experience in sales and real estate.
Business Network International
A global business networking organization that facilitates referral-based lead generation for members.
The details
The Better Black Business Project operates on a networking model that prioritizes community service over direct selling. The organization utilizes virtual networking platforms to establish a foundation in new markets before transitioning to in-person operations. These efforts are complemented by the organization's training programs, which focus on entrepreneurship skills for youth and justice-impacted populations.
Timeline
2018: LeBrent Speed joined a local chapter of Business Network International.
September 11, 2026: Speed released the book The Transformation Code.
Market Landscape
The Better Black Business Project utilizes a service-first networking model that mirrors broader industry shifts toward relationship-based B2B sales. This approach contrasts with traditional transactional models by prioritizing community engagement as a precursor to commercial success.
Operators looking to expand their professional networks should evaluate service-first models as a method for sustainable lead generation. Consider how community-focused outreach can differentiate your business in competitive regional markets.
The takeaway
Speed's model demonstrates the value of documentation and narrative in professional building, evidenced by the release of his book, The Transformation Code. Monitor the organization's planned expansion into Atlanta as a potential blueprint for entering new markets through virtual-first networking.
Further reading
For more on evolving business networks, see Minnesota Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder.
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Would you prefer joining a networking group focused on shared identity over a traditional business network?
