Black Women’s Expo Marks 30 Years Across Multiple US Cities

The Black Women's Expo, now known as BWe NEXT, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a three-day event at McCormick Place in Chicago from August 1-3, 2025. Founded by Merry Green in 1995, the expo has grown into a nationally recognized platform focused on empowering Black women entrepreneurs, offering seminars, networking opportunities, and a wide array of exhibitors. This year's theme, "The Legacy Continues," reflects the Expo's longstanding influence and commitment to uplifting Black women, families, and entrepreneurs. The event features performances by Grammy-nominated gospel artist Marvin Sapp, soulful singer Raheem DeVaughn, and appearances by Tamron Hall, among others. New highlights include the "Bagels and Bosses" brunch, where CEOs in the beauty industry will share business insights, as well as a Men's Den and a pavilion celebrating Historically Black Sororities called the "Divine 4." The Expo remains deeply rooted in Chicago, maintaining a loyal following while offering a robust lineup of seminars, panels, live demonstrations, and celebrity performances.