L E A R N

What Type of Capital?

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM (45 Min)
Location: E10A

We talk frequently about needing capital to fund our businesses, but how do you know what type of capital and when to obtain it? Join these panelists as they discuss the most common forms of capital and what's needed to obtain it.

Moderator: Chris Hairston-White
Panelist: Ron Busby
Panelist: Aurelia Flores

G R O W

Small Business Grants / Accelerators & Incubators

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM (45 Min)
Location: E10B

We've all seen the grant applications, heard about the accelerators, applied to the incubator programs. But what does it all really mean, and is it worth the time? Moreso, how do you successfully apply for these programs? What better way to get clarity than from those who have not only had success applying for these opportunities but those who are at the table reviewing applications to determine who gets in? Get the inside scoop!

Moderator: Paul Nolde
Panelist: Toria Edmonds
Panelist: Rodney Williams

O W N

Leveraging Your Business to Develop Generational Wealth

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM (45 Min)
Location: E10C

Many of us say we want to start a business to create generational wealth, but what does that mean in practice? What are practical strategies to generate wealth by leveraging your business? And, of course, how does estate planning come into play? Yes, we're saying the quiet parts out loud. Don't miss this one!

Moderator: Garnesha Ezediaro
Panelist: Sigmund Collins
Panelist: Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon

L E A R N

If You Don't See it, Should You Build It?

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM (45 Min)
Location: E10A

Successful businesses meet a need. But sometimes, that need is only specific to a small group of people, and may not amount to a business. Learn from those who have been on both sides: building a successful business out of a need and launching a business out of a perceived need, only to learn it wasn't enough to sustain a business.

Moderator: KimArie Yowell
Panelist: April Richardson
Panelist: Mike Lindsey

G R O W

Lessons from the Trenches

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM (45 Min)
Location: E10B

Do you ever see someone who's been successful in business and wished you could sit at their feet and absorb everything they know? This is your time. We've got some powerful panelists who will give you an inside look at the business tips and secrets that have been most impactful in their business journey. You won't want to miss this!

Moderator: Rita Ricks
Panelist: Lauren Powers
Panelist: Panama Jackson

O W N

Is the Why Real?

Asking the Tough Questions about Continuing Your Business or Continuing to work in the business

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM (45 Min)
Location: E10C

There comes a point in every entrepreneur's journey where the work gets overwhelming and they question whether it's time to wind down the business. It isn't a simple yes or no answer, but it is important to always true back to your why, and more importantly, assess whether the answer to the question is about you working in the business or about the business continuing. Our panelists will share their journeys to the answer to the question, and the key things that helped them make the call.

Moderator: Blair Durham
Panelist: Gabby Goodwin
Panelist: Ankit Mathur

L E A R N

Emerging Markets: Cannabis

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM (45 Min)
Location: E10A

Cannabis is becoming legalized in increasingly more states. But what does that mean for an entrepreneur? Listen to industry experts talk more about the variety of entrepreneurial opportunities in this field.

Moderator: Ngsite Abebe
Panelist: Sarah Kiah Morton
Panelist: Todd Hughes

L E A R N

Navigating the Creator Economy

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM (45 Min)
Location: E10A

More people are learning how to monetize their hobbies and passions and turn them into side hustles, while others are launching with the intent of creating viable businesses. Our panel of creatives will share their journey & tips on how to be successful in a creator economy.

Moderator: Paris Sutherlin
Panelist: Nylah Akua
Panelist: Jalyn Baiden

G R O W

Are Your Systems in Place?

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM (45 Min)
Location: E10B

The fun part of business is the public facing side, the sale of products or services, the acquistion of customers. But none of that is possible if you don't have good, efficient systems in place, which requires re-evaluation at every stage. Learn more about how to set up those tools, evaluate them and make the investment to support your growth and success.

Moderator: Zainep Mahmoud Jones
Panelist: Rasheeda Gray 
Panelist: Todd Waldo

O W N

Doing Well, Doing Good

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM (45 Min)
Location: E10C

You've built your business, grown it to a sustainable place, and now are wondering what it takes to bring in a nonprofit component. What would that look like? What are the potential paths to doing good while doing well, and what are some things to consider before making this move?

Moderator:Myra Smith
Panelist: Shantell Chambliss
Panelist: Dr. Jakita Thomas

Hospitality Industry

Location: E10A
Moderator: Tameka Jefferson

Personal Services Industry

Location: E10B
Moderator: Cherice Jackson

Professional Services Industry

Location: E10C
Moderator: Sharvette Mitchell

Retail Industry

Location: Grand Ballroom C
Moderator: Chrisma Luster