The StartUp Westport and Westport 10 are hosting an event to promote opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs.

Co-founder Jay Norris says his goal is for entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to have a future of opportunities with the help of leaders and mentors.

“I have a son; I have a young son. My goal is that wherever he is, that he's touched in a certain way that will help inspire him,” said Norris.

Norris said everyone in the community should take part in helping each other.

“It is Black History Month. However, the goal here is diverse entrepreneurship. We believe we're all stronger together,” Norris said. “We need to acknowledge each other. We need to support each other's businesses.”

He calls it his passion and calling in life.

“Martin Luther King, he inspires me every day, I think about the courage this man had during his time,” Norris said. “And I also look at myself and I say, wow, If King was around what difference would you want to make?”

He adds that King’s mission of a diverse economic perspective is still a dream that has not been reached.

“We need that economic justice to happen,” said Norris.

Norris is also the CEO and co-founder of BlackLight, the world’s first search engine for Black-owned businesses.

The diverse entrepreneurs’ event is happening this Thursday, Feb. 29, at the Westport Library and is open to everyone.

The event begins at 6 p.m., followed by a meet-and-greet cocktail reception. Anyone interested in attending can click here to register.