The Minority Business Consortium (MBC) has officially established an office in the Baldwin Building at New College Institute (NCI), creating a powerful partnership dedicated to advancing equity, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity throughout Southern Virginia.
The collaboration between MBC and NCI aligns two missions centered on community impact by connecting education, business, and innovation to strengthen the region’s workforce and economic resilience. Together, the organizations will empower minority-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and aspiring professionals through education, technical support, and access to resources that fuel long-term success.
“The Minority Business Consortium’s presence at NCI represents more than shared space. It is a shared purpose,” said Joe Sumner, Executive Director of New College Institute. “MBC’s leadership and commitment to equitable economic growth directly complement NCI’s work to expand access to education and opportunity. This partnership will help ensure that more of our region’s talent can participate in and benefit from Virginia’s economic momentum.”
Empowering Entrepreneurs and Building Inclusive Growth
Founded to address systemic barriers facing minority business owners, the Minority Business Consortium provides hands-on support to help entrepreneurs launch, sustain, and scale their businesses. Services include mentorship, capacity-building workshops, access to capital networks, and partnership development across public and private sectors.
By co-locating with NCI, MBC will expand its footprint in the Martinsville community by reaching more small business owners, students, and local leaders who are ready to grow their enterprises and strengthen the local economy.
“We are thrilled to join the New College Institute family,” said Christy Harper, Executive Director of the Minority Business Consortium. “This move allows us to serve the community in a more direct and collaborative way. By partnering with NCI, we can combine education and entrepreneurship to open doors of opportunity for those who have historically been excluded from them.”
Eric Jones, Chair of NCI’s Board of Directors, added, “This partnership perfectly reflects NCI’s role as a convener and connector. By welcoming MBC into the Baldwin Building, we are deepening our commitment to equitable growth and ensuring that our educational and workforce efforts truly reach every corner of the community.”
“Our mission is to ensure that minority businesses have equal access to opportunity. Partnering with NCI allows us to amplify that mission through collaboration, shared resources, and a community of support that is ready to grow together,” stated MBC Board of Directors Chair Charles Whitfield.
MBC’s new office at NCI will serve as a hub for business development, resources programming, training, and collaboration to create pipelines for minority-owned businesses to connect with educational institutions, local industries, and state-level initiatives.
“Our focus is on empowering people with the knowledge, tools, and networks they need to thrive,” Harper added. “Together with NCI, we’ll build stronger businesses, stronger communities, and a more inclusive economy for all.”
Community Celebration: MBC Meet & Greet Event
To celebrate its new office and partnership with NCI, MBC will host a “Meet & Greet” event on Thursday, November 6, 2025, in the Martin-Lacy Lecture Hall.
This event will provide an opportunity to meet and network with the Minority Business Consortium and its entrepreneur ecosystem partners. Community members, entrepreneurs, and partners are invited to attend, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, and learn more about MBC’s initiatives and opportunities for engagement.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Location: New College Institute – Martin-Lacy Lecture Hall
191 Fayette Street, Martinsville, VA 24112