Expertise: creating a space for students to become entrepreneurs

Bio: Dr. Eric Kelly III is a visionary artist, businessman, and humanitarian whose career spans over six decades. Born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Durham, North Carolina, Dr. Kelly is widely recognized as one of the most influential Black abstract expressionist artists of his generation. As the founder and director of the Eric Kelly III Museum, he has preserved a lifelong body of work that explores color, emotion, and cultural identity through his original style known as neo-abstract expressive art. www.erickellymuseum.org

In addition to his achievements in the arts, Dr. Kelly is the founder of www.bxtv.org, the world’s first 24-hour, 365-day global Black business streaming network. Through this groundbreaking platform, he empowers Black entrepreneurs worldwide, raises scholarships and laptops for students, and promotes economic justice and self-determination. Dr. Kelly also co-founded the Black Business Expo USA and created the Black Business Olympics, a global event highlighting Black business excellence.

A recipient of numerous honors—including the Presidential Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award and the Global Humanitarian Award—Dr. Kelly continues to bridge art, innovation, and community empowerment to leave a lasting legacy of impact and inspiration.
In 1989, Dr. Kelly launched the Black Business Expo USA, one of the largest and longest-running business showcases for Black-owned enterprises. He is also the founder of Kelly Worldwide Advertising Agency, where he has worked with major brands to elevate Black business visibility and cultural impact. His pioneering contributions have earned him numerous honors, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, for his commitment to art, innovation, and community transformation. www.blackbusinessolympics.com

Company Overview: Black Business Expo USA is a virtual event focused on raising scholarships for students and supporting emerging entrepreneurs. With the theme “Economic Inclusion!”, the Expo brings together students, business leaders, and creatives for a week of pitch competitions, workshops, and speaker sessions. Our mission is to close the economic gap by empowering students to pursue education in business, STEM, marketing, and entrepreneurship—helping them start their own ventures while still in school.