WHAT IS THE GAP PROGRAM?

Join The GAP from April 1 to May 24, 2024, for an eight-week hybrid bootcamp designed to foster sustainable black businesses, available for $199 per business owner. This engaging program offers weekly classes, both in-person and virtual, led by industry experts covering key aspects of successful black businesses, including organizational structure, systems, policies, procedures, accounting, taxes, cost build-up, business credit and funding, marketing, public relations, government contracting, and customer service. The program culminates in participation at the 3rd Annual Black Wall Street Black Business Expo on June 1, 2024. Open enrollment runs annually from September 1 to December 31.

The enrollment fee of $199 per business owner covers one (1) program workbook, a course directorate consisting of all teachers and students, and one (1) vendor booth in the 3rd Annual Black Wall Street Black Business Expo upon completion of the program* (Completion is achieved by attending seven (7) of the eight (8) weeks of the program.

WHY DO WE CALL IT THE GAP?

The GAP is an ode to the three streets that ran through Black Wall Street, Greenwood, Archer, and Pine streets, in Tulsa, Oklahoma before it was destroyed in the Tulsa Race Massacre. It is also the pillar of TFLI's efforts to close the wealth gap that has existed between African Americans and its counterparts since the Tulsa Race Massacre.

The Gap Program will be capped off with our premiere event — The Black Wall Street Black Business Expo (BWSBBE). The expo features black-owned businesses and a panel discussion among our CEO, celebrity guests, and other financial literacy advocates. BWSBBE also awards grants to participating vendors to further their business endeavors. This is an annual event that we execute for our community.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Yes. The GAP is for both current and aspiring business owners.

  • No. The GAP will be both in-person and online. Upon enrolling, you will be able to select your method of participate whether in-person or online.

  • No. You must be in attendance at least seven (7) out of the eight (8) weeks of class to receive your complimentary vendor booth.

  • No. Only one vendor booth will be provided per GAP enrollee.

  • No. Complimentary vendor booths are only for businesses who complete The GAP Program.

  • Each class is 2 hours. It will consist of 1.5 hours of instructional time and 30 minutes for Q&A.

  • Refunds of enrollment fees will be optional until March 9, 2023 after which no refunds will be given under any circumstances.

  • The location of class for in-person participants will be announced at a later date and will also be emailed to all in-person attendees.

  • Yes. Your participation in this program would be considered a business expense and is fully tax-deductible.

  • No. Only registered enrollees who have paid the enrollment fee are permitted to participate in The GAP.

  • Enrollment occurs annually from September 1 - December 31. Any enrollment inquiries received after the deadline will be slated for the following year's class.