The nonprofit lender and resource provider WESST is just one of the small-business loan providers that will offer information at the 2025 Black Business Summit on February 28 in Rio Rancho. The event is free, but registration is required due to limited space.

The Black Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico is lead sponsor of the event that takes place at New Covenant Worship Center, 4504 Ace Way SE in Rio Rancho from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Feb. 28. Other sponsors include the New Mexico Economic Development Department and One Albuquerque Economic Development.

Participants will be able to talk one-on-one with lenders and resource providers such as WESST. In addition, the event offers networking opportunities, as well as food.

WESST is a business development organization that offers small-business loans in addition to workshops and business consulting. Businesses like VIIIZON Academy LLC in Alburquerque have turned to WESST for essential business skills.

“WESST provided us with the necessary skills to establish and build credit in the early years, helped us identify spending leaks early on, and taught us how to conserve our resources for future endeavors,” said VIIIZON Academy LLC co-founder Trey Pickett.

Co-founder Vanessa Mathis echoed that sentiment. “Hands down, I learned time management skills and managing money. We have nothing but gratitude for our business consultant Neema who helped us feel comfortable in our expansion of VIIIZON Academy LLC and providing us the opportunity to be podcast guests on “Minding Your Business.” Thank you for promoting and sharing our achievements.”

Register for the Black Business Summit to speak to a WESST representative about the services offered. For those unable to attend the summit, learn more about WESST and contact them directly.

The event coincides with Black History Month, which is celebrated from February 1 through March 1.