Saturday, September 28, 2024
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Lowcountry Conference Center
(Summerville Hilton Garden Inn/Homewood Suites building)
Natalie Williams, originally from New Jersey, has lived in the Charlotte Metrolina area for over 15 years and is the Chief Operations Officer at the Urban League of Central Carolina. With over 20 years of experience in financial, organizational development, and operational management, she has previously served as Director of Operations for several organizations, including ASPIRE Community Capital and the Carolinas Minority Supplier Development Council. Natalie also founded NAW4 Integrated Business Solutions, LLC, where she offers business consultation to small minority businesses, aiming to empower individuals in their entrepreneurial journeys. Her dedication to community service extends to her roles on several nonprofit boards and as a co-author of a professional development book. Recognized with numerous awards, such as the 2024 Ethel Community of Excellence Award, Natalie balances her professional achievements with a deep commitment to her family, enjoying time with her husband of 36 years, three children, two grandchildren, friends, and barbeques.
$149
$150
*(includes entrance for two into the conference)
In “Funding Foundations,” you’ll learn about various financing options, including loans, grants, and venture capital. Our expert speakers will guide you through the process of preparing a compelling business plan, understanding credit requirements, and identifying the best funding sources for your specific needs. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand, this session will provide you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the financial landscape with confidence. Don’t miss this opportunity to take the first step toward achieving your business goals.
In “Certification Success,” industry experts will provide you with essential insights into obtaining small business certifications, such as Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). Learn how these certifications can open doors to lucrative government contracts and gain practical tips on how to effectively compete in the government marketplace. This session will equip you with the knowledge to streamline your certification process and leverage it for business growth. Join us to discover how to make your small business a preferred choice for government agencies and prime contractors.
Elevate your small business with effective marketing strategies in our “MarketHER” session. This dynamic workshop is designed to equip you with the tools and techniques needed to build a strong brand presence and attract your target audience. Learn from marketing professionals about digital marketing, social media, content creation, and branding essentials. Discover innovative approaches to promote your business on a budget and maximize your reach. Whether you’re new to marketing or looking to refine your strategy, this session will provide actionable insights to help you stand out in a competitive market. Join us and transform your marketing efforts to drive business success.
Sheila L. Mills is CEO of FAITH CONCEPTS LLC dba Life Purpose by Design Consulting— women empowerment speaker, youth mentor and resiliency life coach. Her mission is to educate, engage, and empower others to succeed with 3 Cs—clarity of purpose, courageous faith, and a commitment to overcome adversities–despite the obstacles that threaten to push you off course from attaining your highest purpose—a life empowered by God’s design.
My name is LaShaya Norton, founder of Wanderland Mobile Grocery, a grocery store on wheels providing fresh, local produce to underserved communities. With over 10 years empowering students, families, and educators, I saw a need to expand my reach and empower communities. This burning desire to help more families access healthy food choices, wellness education, and combat diet-related illnesses like diabetes and heart disease, led me to launch Wanderland Mobile Grocery Store. Since the idea’s inception in 2021, I’ve overcome numerous obstacles – from learning business fundamentals to beta testing, funding challenges, and personal setbacks. My journey is a testament to the power of dedication, determination, and support.
“The Mindset of a Successful Entrepreneur,” is designed to equip aspiring and current entrepreneurs with the mental tools needed to navigate the challenges and triumphs of the business world. Join us for an engaging and interactive exploration of four key topic areas: Identifiable Mindset, Realistic Mindset, Mindset of Resilience, Mindset Moving Forward. Join us for an enriching experience that will not only inspire but also empower you to adopt and enhance the mindset of a successful entrepreneur. Whether you’re at the start of your entrepreneurial journey or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide you with invaluable insights and practical strategies to thrive in the competitive business landscape.
Join us for “Grant Writing 101,” where you’ll learn the essential skills to craft compelling grant proposals. This session will guide you through the basics of grant writing, including researching grant opportunities, understanding the application process, and developing a winning proposal. Our experts will share tips on how to clearly articulate your mission, outline project goals, and create a persuasive narrative that captures the attention of funders. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your grant writing techniques, this workshop will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to secure funding for your projects. Don’t miss this chance to turn your ideas into reality with effective grant writing.
Gain control of your business finances in our “Small Business Accounting” session. This comprehensive workshop is tailored to help entrepreneurs understand the fundamentals of accounting and financial management. Learn how to set up and maintain accurate financial records, interpret financial statements, and manage cash flow effectively. We will cover key topics such as bookkeeping, tax preparation, and budgeting, providing practical tips and tools to streamline your accounting processes. Whether you’re new to accounting or looking to enhance your financial skills, this session will equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed financial decisions and drive your business growth. Join us and master the financial aspects of running a successful small business.
Diversity can boost your business! Learn why diverse teams are smarter, more creative, and reach wider markets. We’ll tackle the tough stuff too – like the barriers that keep businesses from being as inclusive as they could be – and share straightforward strategies for tearing those barriers down. Find out how you can turn diversity into your business’s superpower and stand out in the market.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
843-408-0343 | [email protected] | www.ihopewbc.org