About Us
Who Are We
The Capital of New York State Black Expo is a network of businesses, community partners, volunteers, and sponsors that make it possible to continue the vision and legacy of Annette DeLavallade, grandmother of Founder, Tatiana Cunningham.
Our Mission
CNYS Black Expo's mission is to create meaningful connections, promote entrepreneurship, and empower Black youth through education, business, and community engagement.
Our Vision
Build relationships, create opportunities, exchange information, and encourage collaboration in communities across NYS.
Our Founder
Tatiana Cunningham
Founder of the Capital of New York State Black Expo and the 501(c)(3) non-profit Bluebird Organization launched both initiatives to offer opportunities and support for her community. Under the guidance of her grandmother, Anette DeLavallade, who was an active entrepreneur and trailblazer in the Albany community, she was inspired to hone her entrepreneurial skills at a young age and has been enterprising since the age of eight. Tatiana continues to inspire and encourage success among small businesses both locally and nationally. She holds steadfast in her belief that entrepreneurship can drive life-changing success and evolution. Cunningham continues to leverage her learned lessons, experiences and wisdom to help inform the growth and development of the next generation. Tatiana has received congressional recognition and is the recipient of the YWCA Northeastern NY Diversity & Inclusion Award, Kazi Award, CNYS Black Expo Torch Bearer Award, Queens of Inspiration Award and The Women Who Rock Award. Her expertise has been featured in the Albany Business Review, The Saratogian, original.newsbreak.com and many other national and regional outlets.
I attended the Capital of New York State Black Expo recently and it was an incredibly enjoyable experience. The Expo was well organized and showcased an array of different small businesses and organizations. The atmosphere was positive and the staff was extremely helpful and friendly. I would highly recommend this Expo to anyone interested in learning more about the Black community in the Capital of New York State.
"The CNYS Black Expo is the gift that keeps on giving. Having the privilege and opportunity to volunteer for the expo in a leadership role for the past 4+ years is truly a great honor. The CNYS Black Expo has definitely expanded my growth and development as evidence by new connections, networking, and the building up of my personal and professional skills and character. Tatiana and her staff are truly examples of what black excellence looks like."
- Tyhisha Ghaffar-Adjei, Founder - The Guardians of Al-Fitrah