August 2026 — Minority & Black Business Month

Dear PhilaNOMA Members and Supporters,

Design influence grows exponentially when minority architects lead firms, direct projects, and shape policy conversations.

Minority and Black Business Month is a reminder that entrepreneurship is not separate from design excellence. It is an extension of it.

PhilaNOMA is expanding programming focused on firm ownership, financial strategy, marketing development, and leadership training. When minority firms thrive, the entire profession benefits from expanded perspective.

We are also enhancing chapter operational systems to better connect members with project opportunities and professional resources.

If you have ever considered launching a firm, expanding services, or mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, this is your moment to engage with PhilaNOMA programming and help build stronger pathways for others.

Ownership changes narratives.

And together, we are writing new ones.

Warm regards,

Ian Smith 

President, PhilaNOMA

Ian Smith

President, PhilaNOMA