about us
ABOUT US
The Great African Culture Network.
The Great African Cultural Network Inc. (GACNInc) is a dynamic non-profit organization founded in 2013 and based in Edmonton, Canada. Our mission is to promote equality and empower Black-led organizations and businesses across Western Canada. We are deeply committed to supporting the growth, sustainability, and success of these organizations through innovative programs designed to strengthen their organizational capacity and leadership.
At GACNInc, we focus on developing organizational power by providing the resources, mentorship, and tools necessary for Black entrepreneurs and leaders to thrive. Our work is grounded in the belief that organizational practices must align with the principles of Black equity—ensuring fairness, justice, and opportunity for all Black-led initiatives.
In addition to our core programs, we are proud to support the Black Equity Collective (BEC), a transformative initiative aimed at redefining the relationship between philanthropy and Black-led organizations. The BEC operates with a focus on equity, ensuring that Black communities are not only beneficiaries but active participants in shaping the philanthropic landscape. Through the collective, we advocate for the redistribution of resources, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for Black-led ventures.
At GACNInc, we are more than a network—we are a movement committed to dismantling systemic barriers and building a future where Black-led organizations in Western Canada can thrive and lead with strength, resilience, and purpose.
Our Values
- Equity: We are committed to ensuring fairness and justice in opportunities for Black-led organizations, addressing systemic barriers to success.
- Empowerment: We focus on strengthening the capacity of Black leaders and businesses, providing the tools and support needed for success.
- Collaboration: We foster partnerships to achieve shared goals, driving collective impact through mutual support.
- Sustainability: We build long-lasting structures and practices to ensure the enduring success of Black-led organizations.
At GACNInc, collaboration drives everything we do. We unite our community on every project to ensure Black-led organizations achieve the best results and lasting impact.
Our Mission
Our mission is to foster an environment where Black-led organizations and businesses in Western Canada can thrive. By promoting equality and creating opportunities that reflect the principles of Black equity, we aim to provide a foundation for success and sustainable growth. We strive to elevate Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders, enabling them to contribute to the economic landscape through inclusive and sustainable practices. Through strategic partnerships, mentorship, capacity building, and access to resources, we aim to close systemic gaps, challenge inequities, and build a legacy of long-term economic empowerment and social impact for Black communities in the region.
Our Vision
We envision a future where Black-led organizations and businesses not only thrive but lead the way in fostering innovation, growth, and social impact. Our goal is to ensure that these organizations have equitable access to the resources, networks, and opportunities needed to succeed, breaking down barriers and dismantling historical inequities. By transforming the relationship between philanthropy and Black communities, we aim to foster a culture of mutual support, collaboration, and sustainable development. This vision is built on the principle that Black communities are integral to the fabric of society and that their success contributes to the collective prosperity of all. We are committed to creating pathways that empower Black leaders to shape their own future, strengthening their role in both local and global economies.