Bill Clinton

“ Ron Brown worked hard to include minority business interests in our Nation's business and economic development policies, and as we carry forward his legacy, it is our responsibility to ensure that all Americans can see business ownership as more than just a dream. Our future as a world economic power rests on the notion that business ownership can be attained by anyone willing to work toward that goal. Minority Enterprise Development Week is a time to spotlight the minority men and women who provide the goods, services, and jobs that keep this Nation strong. ”

“ As our Nation continues to surge forward in the competitive arena of international business, minority entrepreneurs are playing an increasingly important role. In the new global economy, minority-owned businesses represent a unique advantage for the United States; the diversity of our national business community is one of its main strengths. Behind this success lies the daily work of thousands of minority business men and women who are continuing to renew the validity of the American Dream. ”

“ These Americans have stepped forward to accept several challenges: the challenge of opening economic participation to all citizens; the challenge of overcoming the under-representation of minorities in business ownership and management ”