On Friday, June 20, 2025, the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), in partnership with Wells Fargo, proudly unveiled the Wells Fargo Learning Lab: a dynamic new space built to fuel the growth of Black-owned businesses and advance inclusive innovation in Atlanta. Backed by a $1.5 million investment from Wells Fargo, the Lab is a tangible expression of RICE’s ongoing mission to provide entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and access they need to thrive.
The Learning Lab will serve as a launchpad for hundreds of business owners each year where founders become RICE Ready for the Uncommon Access ™
that RICE and our network of partners are known for delivering.
A Powerful Day of Celebration and Connection
Held at RICE headquarters in the heart of Southwest Atlanta, the unveiling ceremony was an immersive experience. The day began with an exclusive VVIP breakfast and networking reception, where leaders from Wells Fargo, RICE, and distinguished elected officials gathered for intentional dialogue and connection. The breakfast was followed by the official program where attendees enjoyed an informative panel, and a curated bus tour where guests witnessed Black-owned excellence in action at Koncept House. The day intentionally allowed guests to connect with entrepreneurs, engage with city and corporate leadership, and see the real-time impact of RICE’s work in the community.
Standing with Atlanta’s Entrepreneurs
The Wells Fargo Lab Unveiling Ceremony welcomed a high-profile lineup of public officials, philanthropic leaders, and business champions including:
- Congresswoman Nikema Williams, U.S. Representative, Georgia’s 5th District
- Courtney English, Chief Policy Officer & Senior Advisor to Mayor Andre Dickens
- State Representative Inga Willis, District 55
- Ruth Jacks, EVP, Head of Diverse Segments & Community Banking, Wells Fargo
- Tai Roberson, SVP, Philanthropy and Community Impact, Wells Fargo
- Kimelyn Harris, Head of Small Business Growth, Wells Fargo
Each speaker reinforced the urgent need to invest in Black entrepreneurs and uplift ecosystems that drive generational wealth and economic equity.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities: creating jobs, building generational wealth, and driving opportunity where it’s needed most,” said Congresswoman Nikema Williams. “When Black businesses succeed, all businesses succeed. I commend Wells Fargo for investing in that vision, and RICE for continuing to be the model for how we uplift and scale Black entrepreneurship.”
“This collaboration with Wells Fargo moves beyond philanthropy; it’s a strategic investment in the people building Atlanta’s future. The Learning Lab is where ideas turn into enterprises and potential becomes progress,” said Jay Bailey, President & CEO of RICE. “This is Atlanta building its future from the ground up, and RICE is proud to be the foundation.”
Highlighting the Impact of Wells Fargo’s Open for Business Grant
During the program, Wells Fargo leaders shared the national and local impact of their Open for Business Grant initiative—a commitment to help small businesses recover and grow in the wake of the pandemic. The $1.5 million awarded to RICE has powered new curriculum, access to capital, and now, the Learning Lab itself.
“The launch of the Learning Lab is another example of how Wells Fargo is making meaningful impact on small business growth across the country,” said Tai Roberson, SVP, Philanthropy and Community Impact for the Southeast at Wells Fargo. “Helping Atlanta entrepreneurs succeed strengthens the community and contributes to a thriving economy.”
Black Business on the Move: A Tour of Local Excellence
After the ceremony, VIP guests boarded the Black Business Bus Tour, which featured a single, impactful destination: Koncept House. This creative production studio, designed by and for Black creators, offered guests a behind-the-scenes look at what innovation and excellence look like in practice. Transportation for the tour was provided by RICE Stakeholder Dwight McQueen, founder of ATL Tours, whose company is known for showcasing Black culture and entrepreneurship in Atlanta.
This experience connected the dots between RICE’s infrastructure, its Stakeholder network, and the vision of an inclusive, thriving business community.
What Happens Next
The Wells Fargo Learning Lab will now serve as a permanent space for workshops, coaching, and community-centered learning. It’s a place where Black entrepreneurs will build capacity, gain critical insights, and prepare to compete in any market.
This moment wasn’t just about celebration; it was about continuation. The Lab is another step forward in our collective effort to ensure equity in access, outcomes, and ownership.
Watch the Recap
Couldn’t join us in person? Catch the full energy and inspiration from the unveiling ceremony. Watch the event recap on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/38vT1eGHOAA
