Our Mission in Action
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Who We Are
Our Vision
At The Banneker Foundation, we envision a world where Social and Economic justice exists. Where every person has access to the resources they need to live a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. We strive to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Our Mission
The Banneker Foundation seeks to ensure that all people, especially African Americans and Muslims from communities that have historically lacked sufficient resources and support, have access to succeed in the world, by advancing economic empowerment, educational achievement, community service and spiritual enrichment.
Our Approach
In pursuit of this mission, we focus on three key areas:
- Entrepreneurial Development Program
- Education and Community Based Organizations Support
- Emergency Assistance
Annual Minority Small Business Construction Conference
The Minority Small Business Construction Conference (MSBCC) provides critical resources to construction companies to support their success in the industry through technical training, direct opportunities for contracts, local and national certifications, and networking. We bring in leaders in the industry and members of key offices to provide information about how to obtain a line of credit or a bonding program, how to access contracting opportunities with the local and federal government and how to apply for local and national certifications such as the SBA 8(a) program, the HUBZone program and local MBE and SBE programs. In 2024, we will host the 5th MSBCC. Through activities like this conference, the Banneker Foundation hopes to continue to provide minority-owned businesses with critical resources to support their success in the construction industry.
School and Community-Based Organization Support Program
We support schools and educational programs working to improve the education of minority children through innovative and exemplary pre-k to 12 programs. We offer educational scholarships for exemplary college students. The Foundation also supports other community-based organizations such as religious institutions, and non-profits working to provide opportunities, resources and services to economically disenfranchised communities.
Emergency Assistance Program
The Emergency Assistance program provides short-term financial assistance to individuals and families in the metropolitan DC, MD and VA area who are experiencing immediate crisis. The types of emergency assistance offered include support for housing (rental/mortgage), funeral assistance, utilities, food, medical, disaster (fire, accident, etc.). Assistance is designed for low-income individuals and families who are faced with an unexpected crisis of not being able to meet their basic needs.
