| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Jan 15 4–6 PM |
Orientation Session #1 | Overview of RICE, expectations, program pathways, sectors, and navigation of resources. | New stakeholders; returning stakeholders seeking clarity. | RICE Program Team | Register |
| Sat, Jan 17 10 AM–12 PM |
Orientation Session #2 | Weekend repeat of Orientation with all sectors represented. | New stakeholders; those who missed Session #1. | RICE Program Team | Register |
| Tues, Jan 20 6–7:30 PM |
Group Coaching #1: Clarity + Goal Setting | Goal-setting and clarity-building through peer coaching and guided prompts. | Stakeholders needing direction or accountability. | Marie Hunter, President, KRG Oil Company | Register |
| Tues, Jan 20, 27 1 PM–2 PM |
Tech Tuesday Workshop AI Tools for Growing Businesses |
Overview of practical AI and no-code tools, workflow automation, rapid prototyping, and tech-enabled growth strategies for small business owners. | Entrepreneurs new to AI tools; stakeholders seeking scalable, tech-enabled workflows. | Cam Flowers, Founder & CEO, Floreo Labs | Register |
| Thu, Jan 22 1:30–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday The Art of the Strategic Partnership |
Overview of collaborative learning, peer-led discussion, and practical skill-sharing through Think Tank Thursdays in Stakeholder Central. | RICE stakeholders; entrepreneurs seeking peer learning and strategic collaboration. | Courtney Counts, KTC | Register |
| Thu, Jan 22 5:30–7:00 PM |
Productivity, Focus & Well-Being Session for CEOs | Facilitated conversation on productivity, focus, and sustainable leadership for founders and CEOs. | All stakeholders; especially business owners seeking better focus and balance. | Tiffany Ellis, CEO – G Anns Cold Pressed | Register |
| Thu, Jan 29 1:00–2:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday Creating and/or Enhancing Your Capability Statement |
Overview of collaborative learning and practical guidance on developing or strengthening a capability statement through Think Tank Thursdays in Stakeholder Central. | RICE stakeholders; entrepreneurs preparing for partnerships, contracts, or growth opportunities. | Keya Grant, CEO, The Curated Olive | Register |
| Thu, Jan 29 6–7:30 PM |
Group Coaching #2: 90-Day Planning | Traction-building and action planning to close out the month. | All stakeholders. | Myra Herring, Coach | Speaker | Trainer | Register |
| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tues, Feb 3 6–7:30 PM |
Group Coaching #1 (Feb) | Early-month reset, momentum recap, and accountability. | All stakeholders. | Dr. Berkley Baker | Register |
| Tues, Feb 3, 10 1 PM–2 PM |
Tech Tuesday Workshop AI Tools for Growing Businesses |
Overview of practical AI and no-code tools, workflow automation, rapid prototyping, and tech-enabled growth strategies for small business owners. | Entrepreneurs new to AI tools; stakeholders seeking scalable, tech-enabled workflows. | Cam Flowers | Floreo Labs | Register |
| Wed, Feb 4 10AM–12 PM |
World Cup Forum: Fireside Conversation with Jay Bailey | World Cup Forum fireside conversation featuring honest insights on leadership, business wins, and lessons learned. | All stakeholders; especially early-stage entrepreneurs. | Jay Bailey | Register |
| Thurs, Feb 5 6–7:30 PM |
Entrepreneur Essentials (NEW) | Business fundamentals: models, revenue, value proposition, customer basics, and what “scale” actually means. | All new & returning stakeholders. | Dr. Berkley Baker | Register |
| Tues, Feb 3, 10, 17, 24 2–5 PM |
Advising Tuesdays | Weekly sector-aligned advising focused on clarity, planning, financial health, and next steps. | Any stakeholder needing targeted support. | Dr. Berkley Baker; Mark Peterson | Register w/ Dr. Berkley Register w/ Mark Peterson |
| Tues, Feb 10 6–7:30 PM |
Learning Lab #1: Business Foundations | Business models, customer identification, and value proposition basics. | New and early-stage entrepreneurs. | Mark Peterson | Register |
| Thurs, Feb 12 5:30–6:30 PM |
Stakeholder Mixer / Community Hour | Fun, light community-building space across sectors. | All stakeholders. | RICE Program Team | Register |
| Tues, Feb 17 6–7:30 PM |
Learning Lab #2: Finance Basics | Cash flow, budgeting, pricing, and basic money management. | All entrepreneurs; those intimidated by finance. | Mark Peterson | Register |
| Wed, Feb 18 5:30–7:00 PM |
Leadership & CEO Perspective Session | Executive insights on leadership, decision-making, and navigating business growth from the CEO lens. | All stakeholders; especially founders and operators. Professional Services Sector. | Dr. Lawrence Henderson, CEO – Boss LLC | Register |
| Sat, Feb 21 9 AM – 2 PM |
Situational Leadership | Situational Leadership equips founders to lead diverse teams effectively by tailoring their approach to the specific needs of each individual. | Founders and leaders managing teams. | Dr. Berkley Baker | Register |
| Tues, Feb 24 6–7:30 PM |
Group Coaching #2 (Feb) | End-of-month accountability check + troubleshooting, systems, automation, team development. | All stakeholders needing structure. | Mark Peterson | Register |
| Thurs, Feb 26 6–8 PM |
Advanced Learning Lab: Scaling + Systems | Revenue optimization, and expanding operations. | Established, revenue-generating businesses ready to grow. | Dr. Berkley Baker | Register |
| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, Mar 17 6–7:30 PM |
Tech Tuesday: 4-Week Series | Design Thinking Mini Bootcamp WEEK 3 | Generate Bold Ideas |
Participants will explore multiple solution possibilities using quick sketching methods such as Crazy 8s and SCAMPER Lite. They will learn how to generate a large quantity of ideas, evaluate them, and select one direction for early prototyping. This week emphasizes creativity, exploration, and visual communication — even for non-artists. | Stakeholder Only Event | Thomas Clifton | Register |
| Tue, Mar 17 6–7:30 PM |
Group Coaching: The Profit Audit - What's Actually Making You Money | Not all revenue is created equal. We’re doing a deep dive into your sales data to separate the "vanity metrics" from the actual profit. Learn to double down on what works and cut the "busy work" that’s draining your bank account. | Stakeholder Only Event | Dr. Berkley Baker | Register |
| Wed, Mar 25 6–7:30 PM |
AI Innovation for Entrepreneurs | Stakeholder Only Event | — | — | |
| Mon, Mar 30 6–9:30 PM |
Group Coaching: The Art of the Ask | Stakeholder Only Event | Marie Hunter | Register |
| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Apr 2 6:00–8:00 PM |
RICE Mind, Body & Business: A Holistic Path to Thriving Women Entrepreneurs Session 4 | A guided session supporting sustainable business growth by strengthening mindset, wellbeing, and leadership alignment. | Stakeholders - Special Group | Paul Mayberry, Armelia Cartier | — |
| Tue, Apr 7 6:00–7:30 PM |
Learning Lab: Lead Adoption & Customer Conversion | Learn how to convert interested leads into loyal paying customers through stronger follow-up and conversion strategies. | Stakeholders - All | Dr. Berkley Baker | Register |
| Tue, Apr 7 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale - Foundations of Global Product Innovation _ MPesa & Apple in China | Define global product innovation, explore adaptation frameworks for product globalization, and review case insights from MPesa’s agent network scaling and Apple’s China-specific customization. Participants will map their own Market Adaptation Snapshot and engage in peer Q&A. | Stakeholders - All | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Thu, Apr 9 1:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Understanding Your Verticals (B2C, B2B, B2G) | Discover how balancing B2C, B2B, and B2G revenue streams can stabilize income, reduce risk, and expand business opportunities. | Stakeholders - All, General Public | Malcolm Ali | Register |
| Tue, Apr 14 1:00–3:00 PM |
Tech Tuesday Workshop TrapGPT: Creating an AI Workforce |
Learn how to build practical AI agents that automate routine tasks and improve operational efficiency across your business. | Stakeholders - All, General Public | Malcolm Ali | Register |
| Wed, Apr 15 6:00–7:30 PM |
Group Coaching: 90-Day Planning Q2 + Check-In | Align your Q2 priorities, refine strategy, and track progress through a structured quarterly planning and accountability session. | Stakeholders - All | Myra Herring | Register |
| Thu, Apr 16 6:00–8:00 PM |
RICE Mind, Body & Business: A Holistic Path to Thriving Women Entrepreneurs Session 5 | Continue building a sustainable business by strengthening leadership, wellness, and long-term growth alignment. | Stakeholders - Special Group | Paul Mayberry, Armelia Cartier | — |
| Tue, Apr 21 6:00–7:30 PM |
Business Health Check (Formerly Business Foundations) | Identify and close operational, financial, and legal gaps to ensure your business foundation can support future growth. | Stakeholders - All | Mark Peterson | — |
| Tue, Apr 21 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale "Using AI to Build Product Roadmaps _ Tesla's China Gigafactory" | Explore market entry models such as export, licensing, JV, and WFOE, along with OEM/ODM, policy and trade considerations, and Tesla’s negotiation and localization pathway in China. Participants will apply entry models to their own businesses and engage in Q&A. | Stakeholders - All | Shakiri Murrain | — |
| Mon, Apr 27 6:00–7:30 PM |
Learning Lab: Protecting Your Legacy Through Risk Strategy | Learn how to identify hidden risks and build smart protections that allow you to grow boldly without jeopardizing your business. | Stakeholders - All | Mark Peterson | Register |
| Tue, Apr 28 1:00–3:00 PM |
Tech Tuesday Workshop TrapGPT: Proposal Powerhouse |
Use AI to quickly create persuasive, professional proposals that win clients and move decision-makers to yes. | Stakeholders - All, General Public | Malcolm Ali | Register |
| Tue, Apr 28 6:00–7:30 PM |
Group Coaching: Creating Executive Capacity | Learn how to delegate effectively, empower your team, and free up time to focus on high-level business growth. | Stakeholders - All | Chris Hanks | Register |
| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon, May 4 6:00–7:00 PM |
Learning Lab: Protecting Your Legacy Through Risk Strategy | Learn practical strategies to protect your business and personal legacy through effective risk planning. Participants will explore real-world approaches to strengthening long-term business stability. | Stakeholders - All | — | Register |
| Tue, May 5 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - Cultural Literacy in Service Delivery | Explore how global companies use cultural literacy to strengthen customer experiences and brand consistency. Participants will discuss service strategies and practical applications for their own businesses. | Stakeholders - All | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Wed, May 6 6:00–8:30 PM |
AI Unlocked Workshop: Supercharging Your Business with Data-Driven AI | Discover how AI and business data can improve decision-making, efficiency, and customer engagement. Participants will explore practical tools and strategies to support business growth. | Stakeholders - All | — | Register |
| Thu, May 7 2:00–4:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: The Hidden Script | Explore how personal narratives and mindset patterns influence leadership and business decisions. Participants will identify limiting beliefs and discuss strategies for growth and alignment. | Stakeholders - All | Ghazi Muhammed | Register |
| Thu, May 7 6:00–8:00 PM |
RICE Mind, Body & Business: A Holistic Path to Thriving Women Entrepreneurs Session 6 | This guided session supports sustainable business growth through mindset, wellness, and leadership development. Participants will engage in discussions designed to strengthen personal and professional alignment. | Stakeholders - Special Group | Paul Mayberry, Armelia Cartier | — |
| Mon, May 11 6:00–7:00 PM |
Group Coaching: Creating Executive Capacity | Learn strategies to strengthen leadership habits, delegation, and operational discipline. Participants will explore ways to improve executive decision-making and business management. | Stakeholders - All | — | Register |
| Tue, May 12 6:00–7:00 PM |
Road to Open Call Info Session 2 | Learn more about the Road to Open Call opportunity and what participants can expect from the process. This session will provide key details, guidance, and next steps for interested entrepreneurs. | Public Facing Event | — | — |
| Tue, May 12 6:00–8:30 PM |
Real Estate & Construction Sector Meeting | This sector meeting brings together real estate and construction stakeholders for connection, updates, and shared learning. Participants will engage around sector-specific opportunities, challenges, and next steps. | Stakeholder Only Event | — | — |
| Wed, May 13 1:00–2:00 PM |
Health & Wellness Sector: Core + More | This session supports health and wellness entrepreneurs with practical insights to strengthen business growth and community impact. Participants will explore strategies connected to wellness, operations, and sustainable development. | Public Facing Event | — | — |
| Wed, May 13 6:00–8:00 PM |
Health & Wellness Sector: Sunset Reset - A Yoga & Sound Bath Experience | Join a restorative wellness experience designed to support reflection, relaxation, and balance. Participants will engage in yoga and sound bath practices that encourage renewal and connection. | Public Facing Event | — | — |
| Wed, May 13 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Get Clear About Capital | This session helps entrepreneurs better understand capital options and what is needed to prepare for funding opportunities. Participants will gain clarity on financial readiness and how to position their business for capital access. | Stakeholder Only Event | — | Register |
| Thu, May 14 2:00–4:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: The Hidden Script: Rewriting the Script for Growth, Visibility, and Performance | Explore how internal narratives can shape business growth, visibility, and performance. Participants will identify limiting beliefs and discuss practical ways to rewrite the script for stronger results. | Public Facing Event | — | Register |
| Thu, May 14 4:00–7:00 PM |
Stakeholder Community Hour | Connect with fellow stakeholders in a relaxed community setting designed to build relationships and encourage collaboration. This gathering creates space for networking, shared updates, and meaningful engagement. | Stakeholder Only Event | — | Register |
| Tue, May 19 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale - Innovation Pathways: From Prototype to Market _ Xiaomi's Globalization Strategy | Explore how companies rapidly test and scale new ideas from concept to market. Participants will learn practical innovation strategies that support business growth. | Public Facing Event | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Wed, May 20 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Criteria for Capital (Session 1) | Learn what funders and lenders look for when evaluating businesses for capital. Participants will explore key readiness criteria and ways to strengthen their financial position. | Stakeholder Only Event | — | Register |
| Thu, May 21 3:00–5:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: FIFA Impact Study: What Happens When Everything Goes Right? | Examine the business and community impact of major successful events through the lens of the FIFA experience. Participants will discuss what happens when planning, execution, and opportunity align. | Public Facing Event | — | Register |
| Thu, May 21 6:00–8:00 PM |
RICE Mind, Body & Business: A Holistic Path to Thriving Women Entrepreneurs Final Ceremony | Celebrate the completion of the program journey and recognize participant growth and achievements. This closing session provides space for reflection, connection, and community celebration. | Stakeholder Only Event | Paul Mayberry, Armelia Cartier | — |
| Tue, May 26 2:00–4:00 PM |
Tech Tuesday: DATA-DRIVEN DECISION MAKING FOR FOUNDERS | Learn how founders can use data to make smarter decisions and improve business performance. Participants will explore practical ways to track insights, evaluate trends, and guide growth. | Public Facing Event | — | Register |
| Tue, May 26 6:00–8:00 PM |
Health & Wellness Sector Meeting/Social | Join health and wellness stakeholders for a sector-focused meeting and social connection opportunity. Participants will share updates, build relationships, and discuss opportunities for collaboration. | Stakeholder Only Event | — | — |
| Wed, May 27 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Criteria for Capital (Session 2) | Continue exploring the criteria businesses need to meet when preparing for capital opportunities. Participants will deepen their understanding of financial readiness and funding expectations. | Stakeholder Only Event | — | Register |
| Thu, May 28 1:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Why Your Business Makes Money But You’re Still Broke | Explore why revenue does not always translate into financial stability or owner pay. Participants will discuss money management, cash flow, and strategies to create stronger financial outcomes. | Public Facing Event | — | Register |
| Sat, May 30 9:00 AM–2:00 PM |
Health and Wellness Sector | This session brings together health and wellness entrepreneurs for sector-specific learning, connection, and engagement. Participants will explore opportunities to strengthen their businesses and expand their impact. | Public Facing Event | — | — |
| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon, Jun 1 6:00–8:00 PM |
Learning Lab: Transaction Law for Entrepreneurs | Gain a practical understanding of the legal principles that impact everyday business transactions. This session will help entrepreneurs navigate contracts, negotiations, and business agreements while identifying potential legal risks and strategies to protect their interests. | Stakeholders - ALL | Michelle Simpson | Register |
| Tue, Jun 2 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale - Nonprofit Scaling Services Globally (CARE) _ The Power of Partnerships | This session covers locally led, globally scaled service models, Lean Service Protocol structure, and CARE’s monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems. Participants will design a Lean Service Protocol for their services and take part in group discussion and Q&A. | Stakeholders - ALL | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Wed, Jun 3 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Criteria for Capital (Session 3) | Whether you want a loan or a partner, you must speak the language of money. This course helps entrepreneurs clean up their books and credit so they can present as the safe bet lenders and investors are looking for. | Stakeholders - ALL | John Paschal | Register |
| Thu, Jun 4 1:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Own Your Audience: From Subscribers to Sales Through Your Company Newsletter | This workshop teaches business owners how to build and use a company newsletter as a direct communication channel. Participants will learn how newsletters can drive consistent engagement and revenue beyond social media. | Stakeholders - ALL | Jessica Brown | Register |
| Tue, Jun 9 1:00–3:00 PM |
Tech Tuesday: AI Animation for Social Media: Creating Cinematic Visuals for Your Business | Learn how AI-powered tools can transform your social media content with engaging, professional-quality animations and visuals. Participants will discover techniques for creating brand stories, increasing engagement, and producing high-impact content more efficiently. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | MK Americana / Matthew Frazier | — |
| Tue, Jun 9 6:00–8:00 PM |
Real Estate, Construction, & Manufacturing Sector: Commercial Leasing for Small Business | Commercial leases can significantly impact a business’s growth and financial stability. This session will provide entrepreneurs with key insights into lease terms, negotiation strategies, common pitfalls, and best practices for securing commercial space. | General Public | Jarvis Broughton, Travis D. Hughes | Register |
| Wed, Jun 10 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Connecting to Capital (CDFIs) | Whether you want a loan or a partner, you must speak the language of money. This course helps entrepreneurs clean up their books and credit so they can present as the safe bet lenders and investors are looking for. | Stakeholders - ALL | Tamiea Anderson | Register |
| Thu, Jun 11 2:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Know Your Business Scorecard: KPIs, Dashboards & Financial Ratios for Business Growth | This finance-focused session helps entrepreneurs understand how their businesses actually make money. Participants will review costs, margins, labor, customer acquisition, cash flow, and net profit to make stronger decisions. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | Mark Steward | Register |
| Tue, Jun 16 12:00–1:00 PM |
Walmart Road to Open Call - Pitch Prep Session #1 | These Pitch Prep Sessions are designed to help selected companies prepare for the Walmart Road to Open Call Pitch Competition on June 23 at RICE. Participants will learn best practices, expectations, and strategies for making the most of a high-stakes retail pitch environment. | Selected Companies | David Walker & Donte Miller | Register |
| Tue, Jun 16 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale - Financing & Fundraising for Global Innovation _ Nubank: Democratizing Financial Services | This session covers global funding instruments, venture capital options, capital stack mapping, and investor signals such as traction, unit economics, and compliance. Participants will draft capital stack plans and take part in peer Q&A. | Stakeholders - ALL | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Tue, Jun 16 6:00–8:00 PM |
Built for AI: Data That Works for You - A Modern Data Platform Strategy for Business Leaders | Learn how to protect your business by understanding the fundamentals of data governance, cybersecurity, and AI-related risks. This session will help entrepreneurs identify vulnerabilities, manage data responsibly, and implement practical safeguards. | Stakeholders - ALL | Markis Piper | Register |
| Wed, Jun 17 5:00–7:00 PM |
Stakeholder Community Hour | Discover how Community Development Financial Institutions can help entrepreneurs access funding and financial resources to grow their businesses. Participants will hear from industry leaders and lending partners about capital opportunities and relationship-building strategies. | Stakeholders - ALL | Paul Mayberry | Register |
| Wed, Jun 17 5:30–7:00 PM |
ProServ Sector: Revenue Architecture & Negotiation Strategy | This session offers a practical conversation about what it takes to scale a service-based business with clarity and intention. Participants will explore revenue architecture and negotiation strategy for stronger business growth. | Stakeholders - ALL | Chef Kitura | Register |
| Wed, Jun 17 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Connecting to Capital (Banks) | Whether you want a loan or a partner, you must speak the language of money. This course helps entrepreneurs clean up their books and credit so they can present as the safe bet lenders and investors are looking for. | Stakeholders - ALL | Tamiea Anderson | Register |
| Thu, Jun 18 1:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Big BIDness: Go Where the Yes Is | This practical finance session helps entrepreneurs stop guessing and start making decisions based on real numbers. Participants will review key financial areas such as costs, margins, cash flow, and net profit. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | Malcolm Ali | Register |
| Thu, Jun 18 6:00–7:00 PM |
Walmart Road to Open Call Pitch Prep Session #2 | These Pitch Prep Sessions are designed to help selected companies prepare for the Walmart Road to Open Call Pitch Competition on June 23 at RICE. Participants will learn best practices, expectations, and strategies for making the most of a high-stakes retail pitch environment. | Selected Companies | Anita Palma & Carnellia Ajasin | Register |
| Fri, Jun 19 1:00–2:00 PM |
Walmart Road to Open Call - Pitch Prep Session #3 | These Pitch Prep Sessions are designed to help selected companies prepare for the Walmart Road to Open Call Pitch Competition on June 23 at RICE. Participants will learn best practices, expectations, and strategies for making the most of a high-stakes retail pitch environment. | Selected Companies | Monica Williams | Register |
| Mon, Jun 22 6:00–8:00 PM |
Built for AI: Data That Works for You - Product Ownership and AI for the Modern Entrepreneur | Discover how strong product ownership and quality data practices can help entrepreneurs leverage AI more effectively. Participants will learn how to organize, manage, and use business data to drive innovation and create products that deliver real value. | Stakeholders - ALL | Markis Piper | Register |
| Thu, Jun 25 1:00–2:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Creating/ Enhancing Your Capabilities Statement | A strong capabilities statement can open doors to new contracts, partnerships, and business opportunities. This workshop will guide entrepreneurs through the key components of an effective statement and help them refine their messaging. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | The Curated Olive / Keya Grant | Register |
| Thu, Jun 25 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Connecting to Capital (Community Funds) | Whether you want a loan or a partner, you must speak the language of money. This course helps entrepreneurs clean up their books and credit so they can present as the safe bet lenders and investors are looking for. | Stakeholders - ALL | Tamiea Anderson | Register |
| Tue, Jun 30 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale - Service Supply Chains & Global Partnerships (UPS) _ UPS & HP: Value Creation Through Supply Chain Partnerships | Explore how leading global organizations build resilient supply chains and strategic partnerships to scale operations and create long-term value. Industry experts from UPS and HP will share insights on collaboration, logistics, innovation, and competitive growth. | Stakeholders - ALL | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Tue, Jun 30 6:00–8:00 PM |
Data & AI For Business: Human First: How to Lead Your Business w/ AI without Losing Control | Learn how to integrate AI into your business while maintaining human oversight, strategic direction, and organizational values. This session focuses on balancing automation with leadership so AI supports decision-making, customer relationships, and business goals. | General Public | Markis Piper | Register |
| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Jul 2 1:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Living a Mature & Disciplined Life: Part 1 Inner Mastery & Mental Alignment | This powerful hybrid workshop helps participants develop spiritual maturity, disciplined habits, and purpose-driven execution through Kingdom-centered principles. This session can stand alone while also serving as part of a larger transformation journey. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | Sharnita Gates | Register |
| Thu, Jul 2 6:30–8:00 PM |
Capital Ready Series - Connecting to Capital (Venture Capitalist/ Investors) | This session helps entrepreneurs speak the language of money when seeking loans, partners, or investors. Participants will focus on improving their books, credit, and financial readiness so they can present as a safe bet for capital. | Stakeholders - ALL | Tamiea Anderson | Register |
| Wed, Jul 8 6:00–8:00 PM |
Real Estate, Construction, & Manufacturing Sector: Bring People, Culture, & High Performing Teams Together | — | General Public | Jarvis Broughton, Shante' Pumphrey | Register |
| Thu, Jul 9 1:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Living a Mature & Disciplined Life: Part 2 Discipline, Expression & Execution | This workshop continues the focus on spiritual maturity, disciplined habits, and purpose-driven execution through Kingdom-centered principles. Participants will explore how discipline, expression, and execution support personal and professional transformation. | Stakeholders - ALL, General Public | Sharnita Gates | Register |
| Tue, Jul 14 1:00–3:00 PM |
Tech Tuesday: TrapGPT: Your AI Book Publisher | This workshop helps entrepreneurs turn their stories, lessons, systems, and expertise into published products using AI tools. Participants will learn how books can become authority builders, marketing tools, and new revenue streams. | Stakeholders - ALL, General Public | Malcolm Ali | Register |
| Thu, Jul 16 1:00–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Big BIDness: Know Your Numbers | This practical finance session helps entrepreneurs understand how their business actually makes money. Participants will review costs, margins, labor, customer acquisition, cash flow, and net profit to make stronger decisions. | Stakeholders - ALL, General Public | Malcolm Ali | Register |
| Thu, Jul 16 5:00–7:00 PM |
Stakeholder Community Hour | — | Stakeholders - ALL | Paul Mayberry | Register |
| Tue, Jul 21 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale - Personal Financial Planning & Wealth Building for Entrepreneurs _ ACE Capital | This session explores personal financial planning strategies for entrepreneurs, including emergency funds, retirement planning, investments, insurance, and household stability. Participants will complete a financial stability exercise and discuss how to prepare if business revenue changes. | Stakeholders - ALL | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Thu, Jul 23 1:00–2:30 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: HIDDEN INCOME: THE CASH OPTIMIZATION PLAYBOOK | Discover how to unlock hidden income from your existing bank accounts. Learn practical strategies to maximize cash through bank bonuses and high-yield savings options—without investing or changing your business model. Participants will explore ways to put idle cash to work and identify opportunities that are often overlooked. Leave with actionable steps to increase returns while maintaining liquidity and minimizing risk. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | Jaret Roby / Simplifi Wealth | Register |
| Tue, Jul 28 2:00–4:00 PM |
Tech Tuesday: Bulletproof Your Tech Build: The Tech Vendor Playbook for Entrepreneurs | This workshop helps entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes when building websites, apps, platforms, or other tech-enabled products. Participants will learn how to communicate with developers, designers, and tech vendors so projects stay clear, aligned, and on target. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | Mark Lawson | Register |
| Thu, Jul 30 1:30–3:00 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Longevity by Design: Your Habits Are Either Healing You or Hurting You | This interactive workshop helps participants examine how daily habits around nutrition, movement, and stress management affect long-term health and performance. Attendees will learn practical strategies to improve well-being and treat personal health as a core business asset. | Stakeholders - ALL, General Public | Adio Akil | Register |
| Date | Program | Description | Who Should Attend | Facilitator(s) | Registration Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, Aug 4 2:30–3:30 PM |
Let's Talk Innovation - How Big Companies Scale - Capstone: Designing a Global Innovation Strategy _ Spinbrush: John Osher: The Electric Toothbrush that Sold for $475M | This capstone session explores global innovation strategy, localization, partnerships, and international operations through real-world business examples. Participants will present short strategy concepts, receive peer feedback, and discuss ways to scale ideas globally. | Stakeholders - ALL | Shakiri Murrain | Register |
| Thu, Aug 13 3:00–4:30 PM |
Think Tank Thursday: Brand Like You Mean It: Building Strategic Brand for Business Growth | This interactive workshop helps entrepreneurs understand branding as a strategic business tool rather than just visuals or marketing. Participants will learn how to create a cohesive brand that communicates value, attracts the right audience, and supports business growth. | General Public, Stakeholders - ALL | Linia White | Register |
Terri-Nichelle Bradley is the Founder and CEO of Play at Brown Toy Box. Bradley believes that Black children should see themselves positively represented in every space the experience regularly, starting with their toybox and the toy aisle. Bradley, an equity in play advocate, is on a mission to disrupt the $27B toy industry by creating a brand that reflects the world we live in today. Launched in 2017 as a STEAM kit, Brown Toy Box evolved into a full-scale educational toy company producing and curating STEAM toys, media, and experiences for centering and celebrating Black children in a manner all children can enjoy, learn, and have fun. Prior to starting Brown Toy Box, Bradley led a communications consultancy working with Fortune 500 companies in campaigns designed to connect with the African American community. Prior to that, Bradley served as the VP of Corporate, Crisis, and Public Affairs for the world’s largest global PR agency. Bradley has been awarded the Civic Impact Award, was recognized as a 2019 Atlanta’s Top 100 Businesswomen of Influence by the Atlanta Business League, acknowledged on the 2020 Who’s Who in Black Atlanta list of influential leaders and most recently named to Inc. Magazine’s 2020 Female Founders 100 list. Brown Toy Box is sold in Target stores nationwide, with Amazon, over 30 museums including the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, as well as other independent specialty toy stores and retailers. Learn more at browntoybox.com
Stefan Miller is the Co-Founder and CMO for Young King Hair Care, which launched in December 2019. Young King Hair Care is a multicultural grooming and lifestyle brand company with tailored offerings catering to specific needs of young men of color. Stefan is a marketing professional with 15+ years of experience across marketing, sales and consulting in the CPG and tech industries. At Young King, Stefan has been featured in over 75+ national publications, was recognized by Mintel as one of the top US brand innovations of 2021, partnered with Disney and Marvel Studios for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and was a participant on Season 13 of ABC’s Shark Tank. Currently Young King Hair Care is available in multiple retail partners, including Target, Walmart, and CVS, selling in over 3,000 stores across the US. Prior to founding Young King Hair Care, he led business strategy and marketing communications, while launching innovations across multiple billion-dollar brands and categories at IBM, Johnson & Johnson, General Mills, Coca-Cola, and Red Bull. Stefan L. Miller Bio Stefan holds an MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University with concentrations in Brand Marketing, Media Management and Management in Organizations, and is a proud HBCU alum of Morehouse College with a BA in Business Administration. He currently lives with his wife and co-founder Cora and 2 kids, Kade and Cree in Atlanta, Georgia. Learn more at youngkinghaircare.com
Ceata E. Lash, CEO and founder of PuffCuff has emerged as a pioneering figure in the natural hair accessory industry, holding the distinction of being the first African-American woman to secure four US patents in this domain. Her journey to entrepreneurship was built upon a 30-year career as a graphic designer, which laid the foundation for launching PuffCuff in 2013. Ceata’s innovative leadership has earned her prestigious accolades, including the President’s Innovation Award from Sally Beauty and the New Voices + Barefoot Wine Beauty Business Grant. These achievements have placed her among the top female founders featured in Inc. Magazine. Committed to lifelong learning and growth, Ceata has completed the Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses National Cohort and was part of the inaugural Amazon Black Business Accelerator Cohort. Her recent completion of the “Building a Successful Diverse Business” program at Tuck Executive Education, Dartmouth, further underscores her dedication to continuous improvement and leadership in the business world. Learn more at thepuffcuff.com
