SPOKANE, Wash. — The Carl Maxey Center will bring back the Sandy Williams Black Business Expo this weekend, showcasing thriving Black-owned businesses in the Spokane community.
The expo will take place Saturday, September 12, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center. This year’s event is intentionally scheduled around the birthday of Sandy Williams, the community leader and founder of the Carl Maxey Center who tragically died in a plane crash in 2022.
Williams launched the Black Business Expo in 2018 to elevate Black-owned businesses and demonstrate the economic strength of Spokane’s East Central community. The event has grown significantly since its inception, expanding from a handful of vendors to dozens of businesses.
“What it does, is it shows that we do have thriving black businesses in the community. So, the impact has been wonderful with regards to recognizing businesses in our community,” said Amos Atkinson, who organizes the event at the Carl Maxey Center.
The expo provides attendees with opportunities to discover and support local businesses, connect directly with entrepreneurs, and explore products and services. For business owners, the event creates meaningful connections with potential customers and fellow entrepreneurs.
Sandy Williams dedicated her life to advancing justice and equity in Spokane. Her vision with the Carl Maxey Center, a Black-centered nonprofit, created spaces where individuals and families could access resources and opportunities for growth.
The Carl Maxey Center continues her legacy through programs including the Small Business Resiliency Network, youth development initiatives, legal advocacy, and community connection efforts.
Vendor spots remain available for businesses and organizations interested in participating. Entrepreneurs, Black-owned businesses, community organizations, and resource providers are encouraged to reserve their space. Applications are being accepted through the end of Thursday. You can find the link to apply at carlmaxycenter.org.
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