Black Enterprise Mag Marks 40 Years

 NEW YORK  -- BLACK ENTERPRISE, the nation's premier business and wealth building resource for African Americans has announced elements that will form the brand's 40th anniversary celebration. Starting with the August 40th Anniversary collector's edition of Black Enterprise magazine, BLACK ENTERPRISE will roll out a series of editorial features, live events, new products, and promotions that will showcase the excitement behind and relevance of the brand that has become the singular voice of black business success.  

BLACK ENTERPRISE made its debut as a modest monthly magazine in 1970. "I saw an opportunity to build a successful venture with the potential to serve the broader interests of African Americans," says Founder & Chairman Earl G. Graves Sr. "We got some pretty big doors shut in our faces, but we persevered and opened those doors.  In doing so, we didn't just document the rise of the African American business success, we became the uplifting force driving that ascent, showing our readers what could be done and giving them the tools to achieve it."  Today, with the publication of its 40th Anniversary issue,Black Enterprise takes that mission forward with Wealth for Life—a bold initiative to uplift African Americans by building on the cornerstones of economic empowerment: education, equity, enterprise and excellence.  "Make no mistake—the wealth chasm between African Americans and the majority is no mere perception, it is a stark reality," says President & CEO Earl "Butch" Graves Jr.  "Given the recent economic crisis, our mission to educate and empower has never been more vital.  We've madeWealth for Life the tagline that will drive everything we do throughout BLACK ENTERPRISE.  From our signature magazine, upcoming iPad edition, revitalized website, syndicated television broadcasts, and exclusive business conferences, our Wealth for Life mission will encourage and inspire our community to make ever greater strides in the decades to come."  

Highlights of the BLACK ENTERPRISE 40th Anniversary include:

• Black Enterprise magazine's 40th Anniversary Collector's Edition: In "Titans," our editors reveal the 40 most influential people in business, iconic entrepreneurs and executives who built the present-day business environment. The feature "40 Next" places a spotlight on up-and-comers 35 and under who are sure to define our future. Plus, our Moneywise,Shopsmart, Enterprise, Techwatch, Workplace, Diversity Watch, Motivation and Lifestyle editors share their insights on our renewed mission to ensure success in each area of life.
• The Black Enterprise/Pepsi Golf & Tennis Challenge plays host to the official celebration Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2-6, at the La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, CA. This highly anticipated event brings together the nation's top African American business leaders for an exclusive weekend of friendly competition and spectacular entertainment.  On Sunday, Sept. 5, the NEXT 40 Gala caps off the 40th Anniversary festivities with a celebration of black business.
• BLACK ENTERPRISE announces its magazine app designed exclusively for the iPad. Coming soon, this all-new interactive experience will feature our exclusive Wealth for Life content, in-depth articles, unique streaming video, customized content, slide shows, and much more in an exciting, cutting edge format—all at the tap of a finger.
• Black Enterprise Business Report returns to national syndication in October with new host Caroline Clarke. An award-winning journalist, business expert and working mother, Clarke's distinctive interview style cuts to the heart, whether her subjects be successful African American power players, business executives or up-and-coming achievers. She reveals who they are, how they overcame adversity, and their unique path to success inspiring viewers to pursue their own achievement. Plus, the show continues to deliver top-notch investment tips, career guidance, personal finance advice, and lifestyle information from the powerhouse BLACK ENTERPRISE editorial team.