OCTOBER 20TH FROM 9AM TO 4PM AT HOLLYWOOD CASINO GREEKTOWN IN DETROIT
ABOUT THIS YEAR'S EVENT
The National Entrepreneurs Association presents the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Friday October 20th from 9am to 4pm at Hollywood Casino Greektown in Detroit. This one-day event is designed to provide high level training for entrepreneurs and business owners to grow and sustain successful businesses from some of the best business minds in the country. This year’s theme is “STAND OUT” and will focus on how entrepreneurs can use the latest resources and technology to MARKET, DIFFERENTIATE AND GROW! Sponsored by Dell Technologies and Comerica Bank.
*Conference registration $97. Includes breakfast & lunch. NEA member discount available with promo code. Parking is free.
2023 Kick off Speaker Rommel Vega
CEO/Founder of HOLO Footwear
Learn How Rommel Vega Went from Designing Shoes at Puma to Launching a Multi Million Dollar Footwear Brand!
Rommel Vega will be the Kick-off speaker at the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference October 20th at Hollywood Casino Greektown in Detroit. He is the Founder and CEO of HOLO Footwear, which offers stylish, sustainable, and functional performance footwear made from recyclable materials for both men and women. You can find the latest selection of HOLO Footwear in-stores or online at Nordstrom and other major retail outlets.
Prior to founding HOLO Footwear, Vega built an 18-year career as a creative lead in the footwear, accessories, and consumer goods industries. Most recently, he was the Global Lifestyle design director for Merrell, the largest division of Wolverine World Wide. His distinguished resume also includes senior design lead positions at Keen Footwear, Columbia Sportswear, and SOREL, as well as experience with global brands such as Puma, Adias, Gerry Outdoors, and Fossil. His company has been featured in numerous news publications including Crains Business and Forbes Magazine.
At the 2023 Entrepreneurs and Small Business Conference Vega will share how he is disrupting the fashion industry, his decision to move HOLO's headquarters from Portland, Oregon to Michigan and the marketing strategies he used to start and build a 30 million dollar company during a pandemic.
2023 Keynote Speaker Kimme Horne
Legendary Jazz Vocalist, Philanthropist & Entrepreneur
Topic: My Entrepreneurial Journey, The Kimmie Horne Story
NEA is excited to welcome International Jazz Singer, Philanthropist and Entrepreneur Kimme Horne as Keynote Speaker of the 2023 Entrepreneur & Small Busines Conference. Perhaps you’ve heard her sing, now you'll hear her story as she shares, “My Entrepreneurial Journey: The Kimmie Horne Story.”
A descendant of legendary songstress and actress Lena Horne and singer/songwriter Cleveland Horne of the Fantastic Four, Kimmie Horne has left her musical mark around the world from Detroit to Tokyo.
Having launched her self entitled Kimmie Horne Jazz Festival in 2016, this production has evolved into a National All American City Award Winning Festival Showcase with plans to expand internationally. The festival attracts thousands of music listeners each year. Her CD entitled High Standards features her latest single Black Coffee.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Horne will share her story along with marketing strategies that are sure to help you take your business to new heights.
2023 Featured Trainer Nick Mattar
Founder/CEO of Digital Detroit
Topic: How to Use AI to Promote Your Business and Transform Your Marketing
Nick Mattar teaches digital marketing at multiple colleges and universities, including Wayne State’s Mike Ilitch School of Business. Additionally, he is the founder and CEO of Digital Detroit, working with businesses to upskill their marketing teams and consult on all things digital marketing. Nick published his first textbook, Content Marketing Strategies: Planning, Creating, and Distributing Content in 2021 and is currently writing his second textbook, Digital Marketing: A Practical Approach, to be released in 2024.
Recently Nick has been exploring generative AI programs and websites, using them to save time and resources for his own small business. He has tested and used more than 100 AI programs since the start of 2023 but still believes he has barely scratched the surface of this budding new industry.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Nick will teach you "How to Use AI to Promote your Business and Transform Your Marketing"
Have you ever wanted to grow your business to the next level but struggled to come up with new marketing strategies? Attend the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference and learn proven strategies from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts . . .
Event Highlights
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2 Dynamic Keynote Speakers
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8 Breakout Sessions
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2 Power Packed Panel Discussions
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Numerous Business Resources
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Exhibitors/Vendors
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Breakfast Buffet
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Power Networking Lunch
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Entrepreneur Awards
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Giveaways and More
*Picture from 2023 Entrepreneurs Forum at Hollywood Casino Greektown in May.
Conference Agenda at a Glance
2023 National Entrepreneurs Association Lifetime Achievement Award
Monica Morgan, International Photojournalist
Monica Morgan is a globally recognized photojournalist with nearly four decades of experience. Her portfolio, a testament to her exceptional skills and diverse range, documents world leaders, icons and celebrities such as King Charles, Muhammad Ali, Oprah, Tony Bennett, Sophia Loren, seven seated U.S. Presidents, and over 50 heads of state.
In addition to photojournalism, Monica specializes in event documentation and corporate headshots, providing a wide array of professional photography services. Her work, including the iconic re-enactment image of Rosa Parks, is available worldwide through Getty Images.
Beyond her photography, Monica inspires others through global speaking engagements, workshops, seminars, and mentoring programs. She uses her experiences to motivate, transform, and teach self-discovery, selfdetermination, and self-esteem. Her passion and dedication make her a luminary in photojournalism.
CONFERENCE SESSIONS
How to Use AI (Artificial Intelligence) to Transform Your Marketing
Speaker: Nick Mattar, MBA, Founder and CEO of Digital Detroit
Generative AI has emerged as a business tool that anyone can use. In marketing, however, the uses are endless, with thousands of platforms supporting various marketing strategies. In this session, Digital Detroit Founder and CEO Nick Mattar will showcase several marketing best practices when it comes to generative AI and some uses to avoid.
Key Takeaways
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How to utilize specific generative AI platforms to save time and money
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Integrate various AI tools into your everyday marketing
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Kickstart your content creation efforts with AI
How To Plan A STANDOUT! Event To Promote Your Business
Speaker: Stephanie A. Watson, President of DZS Luxury Meetings and Events
Have you ever thought about having an event to promote your business? Events are a great way to network, meet new clients, build connections and get lots of exposure fast. Let Award Winning Event Planner Stephanie A Watson show you how to throw an event for maximum impact.
Key Takeaways
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How to use events to increase exposure
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The blueprint for a successful event
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8 essential elements and strategies
Story Marketing: The More You Tell the More You Sell
Speaker: Kimika Garrett, CEO of Organizational Kimistry
Story marketing has emerged as a powerful marketing tool that can help you connect and close potential clients. We all have a story to tell. Discover the power of storytelling and how your story, when told correctly, can help you develop trust, increase sales and skyrocket your business.
Key Takeaways
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How storytelling can enhance your marketing efforts and strategy
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The key storytelling ingredients to build a connection with your ideal client
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Why the human side of storytelling will increase your pipeline vs metrics
Video Marketing: How to Start and Host Your Own You Tube Show
Speaker: Van Allen, Founder of Van Allen Video and Audio Productions
You Tube is one of the largest social media platforms in the world however it can be a little intimidating especially if you’re camara shy. In this session you will learn easy steps to start and host your own show from videographer Van Allen who has 20+ years experience working on cable and You Tube shows with clients and colleagues.
Key Takeaways
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Learn strategies to go from camara shy to camara ready
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Discover how to increase engagement and get more subscribers
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Develop content creation ideas for shows, topics and guests
How to Crush Your Fear of Public Speaking & Become a Media Expert
Speaker: Zsa Zsa C. Hubbard, Entrepreneur & Internet Radio Talk Show Host
Public speaking is often described as one of the greatest fears in the world yet it is one of the most powerful ways to market your business. As an entrepreneur you much be able to effectively communicate your mission and vision to peers, investors, prospects, clients and media professionals therefore developing your public speaking skills is a must!
Key Takeaways
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Specific strategies to become a more confident speaker
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Learn how to develop a powerful pitch for your business
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Get tips to help you market and communicate with the media
How to Enjoy a Bigger Slice of the LinkedIn PIE as an Entrepreneur
Speaker: Brenda Meller, Chief Engagement Officer at Meller Marketing
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for entrepreneurs to grow and evolve your professional brand and business. During this presentation by Brenda Meller, you'll gain actionable tips you can start using. It’s as easy as P-I-E. It is recommended that attendees bring their laptop or phone with the LinkedIn app installed for hands-on instruction.
Key Takeaways:
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Learn strategies for optimizing your LinkedIn profile for your ideal target audience
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Grow your network and build connections through conversational approaches
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Engage your LinkedIn network and build social media karma while building your visibility
Show Me the Money: Sponsorships for your Business Events
Speaker: Michelle McDonald, Former Maketing Director and Community Engagement Manager
Did you know that companies and organizations may be willing to sponsor your business events and help you promote your business? Discover a path to obtaining sponsorships for your business. Learn the who, what, when, where, why and how of sponsorships.
Key Takeaways:
Learn why companies are willing to sponsor business events.
Develop an understanding of who to contact and what to say.
Learn how much you can expect to receive and why.
Entrepreneur and Small Business Resources (Panel Discussion)
Moderator: Michael Wynn, Speaker/Author
Panelist: Lashawnda Manigault - Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, Rachel Campbell - Accounting Aid Society, Dr. Janice Cardwell - National Entrepreneurs Association
There are numerous organizations that offer free and low-cost assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners. During this session you will get an in-depth look at who offers what and how to take advantages of these services that can help you grow your business.
Key Takeaways:
Learn how to access free resources for your business
Meet resource providers who can help you grow.
Get your questions answered by experienced professionals
CONFERENCE SPEAKERS
Dr. Geneva Williams
CEO of Dr. Geneva Speaks
Topic: How Do You Differentiate? Innovative Marketing Strategies to STAND OUT in a Crowded Market
Geneva Williams is CEO of Dr. Geneva Speaks and creator of The Vibrant Life Blueprint©, which helps entrepreneurs and executives achieve extraordinary success and happiness.
After a 40+ year career as an award-winning, nonprofit leader, raising millions for business and community causes, Dr. Geneva reinvented herself as an entrepreneur, author, and international speaker. Crain’s cites her as one of Detroit’s most influential women, NAWBO named her a leading businesswoman, and she received the Urban League’s Distinguished Warrior Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Dr. Geneva is Chair of the Governor’s Michigan Women’s Commission, a commercial television actress, and host of Ignite2impact on iHeart Radio.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Dr. Geneva will lead a panel of successful entrepreneurs who will share their marketing secrets to success.
Brenda Meller
Speaker, Author & Chief Engagement Officer at Meller Marketing
Topic: How to Enjoy a Bigger Slice of the LinkedIn PIE as an Entrepreneur
Brenda Meller is a self-proclaimed “ambassador” of LinkedIn, national speaker, and the Chief Engagement Officer at Meller Marketing, which helps solopreneurs, business professionals, and job seekers enjoy a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. She’s a former corporate marketer who “GETS” LinkedIn.
In January 2021, she published her first book, "Social Media Pie: How to Enjoy a Bigger Slice of LinkedIn" and produced an audiobook version in 2022. She launched her first podcast, "Enthusiastically Self-Employed" in 2023.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Brenda will show you why LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms for entrepreneurs to grow and evolve a professional brand and business.
Zsa Zsa C. Hubbard
Entrepreneur & Internet Radio Talk Show Host
Topic: How to Crush Your Fear of Public Speaking and Become a Media Expert
Zsa Zsa C. Hubbard is the biggest personality in the business! In the true form of a self-made businesswoman, she uses her immense persona to meet a need and edify the community in her own way. As a born and raised Detroit native, Zsa Zsa’s natural inclination to hustle has earned her the marque of an entrepreneur at-large, owning and operating as CEO of multiple businesses. Zsa Zsa is CURRENTLY using her voice (and her Specs Howard degree in Broadcast Media) to engage and educate as an INTERNET radio talk show host. Zsa Zsa ALSO used her innate business savvy and connectivity to form The Hubbard Resource Group— a business hub that offers consulting and non-profit developmental resources. Hubbard then became deputized by the wayne County Clerk as a Wedding Officiate and opened a private wedding officiating and vow renewal service called United Vows.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference ZSA ZSA will teach you how to overcome your fear of speaking in front of an audience and handle media opportunities like a pro.
Kimika Garrett
CEO of Organizational Kimistry
Topic: Storey Marketing: The More You Tell The More You Sell
Kimika Garrett is the CEO of Organizational Kimistry. She is an experienced leader in human resources management, process and performance improvement, organization development and effectiveness, training and learning development, strategic planning and talent management, change management/organizational development, and performance management.
Kimika is a versatile, forward-thinking organizational improvement champion with HR transformation experience in the technology, pharmaceutical, retail, automotive, non-profit/government and chemical/R&D industries. She is passionate about helping organizations achieve operational excellence through strategic planning, process improvement and human capital management.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Kimika will share the power of story telling and how your story, when told right, can increase your sales and skyrocket your business.
Stephanie A. Watson
Award Winning Meeting and Event Planner
Topic: How To Plan a STANDOUT! Event To Promote Your Business
Stephanie A. Watson is the President of DZS Luxury Meetings and Events | When Meetings Matter founded in 1996. She is an Award Winning and Accomplished Event/ Meeting Planner/ PR Professional / Entrepreneur & International Speaker with 30+years of success working in the industries of Pharmaceutical/Healthcare, Community/Business Relations, Training/Development, PR/ Marketing, Project Management and Organizational Planning/ Communications.
Ms. Watson has a BA in Organizational Communications and Journalism from Western Michigan University and is an Advisory Board Member at (AIMP) Alliance of Independent Meeting Professionals. She is certified via (MPI) Meeting Professionals International as a Medical Meeting | Healthcare Meeting Professional and Inclusive Event Strategist. Ms. Watson is an International Speaker (Stephanie Speaks International) and has presented in Atlantic City, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Mexico on the topics of events, etiquette, diversity and business. Her signature speaking topic is "Briefcase Breakthrough" Best Practices: Authentically Embracing Diversity & Inclusion in Business.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Stephanie will show you The Blueprint for a Successful Event.
Van Allen
Founder/Owner of Van Allen Productions
Topic: How to Start & Host Your Own You Tube Show
Van Allen is a lifelong entrepreneur. He began his career in investing over 25 years ago. His primary investments include real estate and blue chip stocks as well as numerous entrepreneurial ventures. He is an award winning motivational speaker and former cable talk show host. He has received numerous speaking awards including first place in the District 28 World Championship of Public Speaking Contest for Toastmasters International. His signature presentation “Are You a Winner” encourages audiences to step out of their comfort zone to reach their true potential. He attended Henry Ford Community College and Wayne State University. He is a Master NLP Practitioner and founder of Van Allen Productions which specializes in video and audio projects.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Van will show you how to use You Tube, a free platform, to start and host your very own show, gain followers and get paid to do it.
Michelle McDonald
Former Maketing Director and Community Engagement Manager
Topic: Show Me the Money: Sponsorships for your Business Events
Michelle McClain is a dynamic speaker, writer, videographer, and trainer with a passion for engaging, educating, and empowering her clients with information that will take their business or nonprofit to the next level! Michelle has over 20 years of experience in cause marketing, video production, sales and consulting. Michelle specializes in promotional videos for nonprofits and businesses; and documentaries.
Michelle was the Marketing Director for a national nonprofit, where she created sponsorship proposals and executed events for Fortune 500 companies. She was also the Community Engagement Manager for a national health insurance company, where she granted funding to nonprofits and community events. She offers both individual and group training on how to obtain sponsors and develop unique experiences for event partners. Michelle is a Metro Detroiter who holds a BA in Public Relations from Wayne State University and a MFA in Film from Ohio University.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Michelle will show you how to get sponsors for your business events and gain greater exposure.
Michael Wynn is a habit success strategist, author, and speaker, with a background that includes experiences in financial auditing, business compliance, and grant monitoring. His inspiration led him to get certified as an authenticity coach, financial literacy trainer, fraud examiner, and recently a NEA Certified Entrepreneur to empower individuals to be accountable and consistent with habits. He is the founder and CEO of Wynngate Associates, LLC and Coach Win, LLC, where he teaches, consults, and trains both individuals and business teams on financial literacy and professional development. Michael learned how to overcome many obstacles by using a “Habit Matrix” in which he shares with many to identify positive habits, energy, health, and wealth management for long-lasting stability and pathways to financial freedom. This also uniquely qualified him to write two bestselling books “Habits Don’t Lie” and “The Habit Effect” that provides creative solutions on winning.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Michael will facilitate a discussion on the many resources available to support entrepreneurs and small business owners.
PANELISTS
Dr. Janice Cardwell
Founder of Conceivers and NEA Board Chair
Topic: Entrepreneur and Small Business Resources
Dr. Cardwell is former Vice President/Campus Director for University of Phoenix-Detroit and a strong advocate for entrepreneurs. She has 30 years experience in adult learning and higher education. Dr. Jan is also an entrepreneur. As CEO and Founding Partner of Conceivers LLC, her firm provides Empowerment (life) Coaching, Executive Coaching, and Dissertation Coaching services. She brings a wealth of experience having held numerous board positions for a variety of non profit organizations. Dr. Cardwell earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Education from Capella University.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Dr. Cardwell will discuss the many resources NEA offers to help entrepreneurs grow.
Karyl Eckerle
Founder/CEO of The Image Impact Group
Topic: How Do You Differentiate? Innovative Marketing Strategies to STAND OUT in a Crowded Market
As the founder and CEO of The Image Impact Group, Karyl Eckerle, is committed to helping women in leadership take their place as “Who’s Who” in their field. In the past few years, Karyl has trained over 1000 women in leadership on using personal brand and image strategies to leverage their confidence, credibility and expertise.
Taking a 360° personal branding approach, Karyl helps her clients gain confidence and credibility through both their in-person and digital presence. From 1:1 personal brand and image coaching to photo shoots to video content, she helps her clients create the consistency they need to stand out from their competition.
Specializing in working with organizations and client-facing leaders on thought leadership marketing through personal branding, image, and content strategies, Karyl hosts her clients at her Image Impact® Studio and Photo Loft in Plymouth, Michigan.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Karyl will share how you can make more of an impact in your industry.
Erin Schnute
Founder/Owner of Bed and Barkfast
Topic: How Do You Differentiate? Innovative Marketing Strategies to STAND OUT in a Crowded Market
Erin Schnute is the owner and founder of Metro Detroit's Bed and BARKfest, a boutique residential dog boarding business that stands out against cold and caged commercial options. Bed and BARKfest was profitable in year one; due to a low overhead model and a clear need in the market, growth has been significant over the past 4 years.
Erin loves connecting with the local community - she also maintains and grows meaningful connections through social media. Erin is passionate about taking great care of beloved family pets and ensuring their humans feel peace of mind when they leave their pups in loving homes. Through community building, cultivating a motivated team of pet sitters, and providing top notch service Erin has grown the Bed and BARKfest’s client list over 500% in the past two years and they have seen profit grow over 700%.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Erin will share how she differentiated her business from others and achieved success.
Ray Moulden
Owner of Allstate Moulden Agency
Topic: How Do You Differentiate? Innovative Marketing Strategies to STAND OUT in a Crowded Market
Ray Moulden, owner of Allstate Moulden Agency, earned his license to sell Business, Auto, Home, Accident, Health and Life Insurance from the State of Michigan in 2013. Since becoming a part of the Allstate family, he has been named a top producer for business and personal insurance sales in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. In March 2015 Ray was chosen as the featured expert on Fox 2’s weekly Financial segment “Money Monday” as a professional advisor on the topic of cutting insurance cost.
Moulden learned perseverance and attention to detail from his studies at Osborn High School, Computer Science at Wayne State University, SCORE C.E.O. training program and the Goldman Sachs 10 Small Business program. Ray is on the board of the Michigan chapter of the National Entrepreneurs Association and involved with numerous civic and charity organizations.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Ray will share how he built one of the most successful insurance agencies in the region.
Tracey Sanders
Founder/Owner of Lavender Mobile Spa
Topic: How Do You Differentiate? Innovative Marketing Strategies to STAND OUT in a Crowded Market
Tracey Sanders has been in the entrepreneurial eco space for 30 years and in 2010, she founded Lavender Mobile Spa, an on demand spa and wellness company that offers a full suite of customizable spa services that clients enjoy in the comfort of their home, hotel or office. Her clients include large corporations, the hospitality industry, municipalities and individual consumers. Locations include Detroit and Dallas TX with Houston expected to be active in November of this year.
Hailing from the great city of Detroit, Tracey Sanders is a graduate of Oakland University with a degree in Marketing. She also received certification in Health & Wellness from Cornell University. She sits on the advisory boards of Dorsey College and Paul Mitchell Beauty School and is a mentor to students pursuing a career in beauty and wellness. Tracey is a wife and mother and enjoys traveling, exceptional culinary experiences and listening to crime podcasts.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Tracey will share how her business stands out from others in her industry.
Jerome Brown
Founder/Owner of Detroit Soul Restaurant
Topic: How Do You Differentiate? Innovative Marketing Strategies to STAND OUT in a Crowded Market
Jerome Brown and his business partner Samuel VanBuren launched an informal catering business into a formal brick and mortar restaurant serving southern style soul food in 2015. When they were ready to take this step, Jerome and his brother received guidance and training from many ecosystems in Detroit. Jerome and his brother Samuel took the time to learn the community where they planned on establishing their business, to better understand their needs, and Detroit Soul was born. A farm-to-table soul food restaurant with healthy options was made available to folks who often lacked access to these choices.
During the pandemic, Jerome was determined to keep Detroit Soul open. He fought hard to keep the same menu and hours of operation. No matter what happens, Detroit Soul is a staple for the community they serve. Employees were able to keep their jobs and community members struggling with COVID-19 or facing financial hardship due to this pandemic, were able to get trays and pans of comfort food.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Jerome will share the strategies he uses to stands out.
Lashawna Manigault
Director of District Business Liaison Program
Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
Topic: Entrepreneur and Small Business Resources
As the Director of the District Business Liaison program, Lashawna spearheads initiatives aimed at supporting the growth and capacity of small business owners. Her knowledge of Detroit’s local economic landscape, coupled with her extensive network of resources enables her to connect entrepreneurs with the critical tools and opportunities they need to thrive. Lashawna's passion lies in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within Detroit’s diverse neighborhoods through innovative strategies and comprehensive programs, she works tirelessly to ensure that small business owners have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Lashawna is a trusted voice and advocate for entrepreneurs guiding them every step of the way. One of Lashawna's key strengths is her ability to build bridges between businesses, local government and the community which includes encouraging community engagement and collaboration.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Lashawna will share little known resources available to help entrepreneurs grow.
Rachel Campbell
Small Business Financial Analyst
Accounting Aid Society
Topic: Entrepreneur and Small Business Resources
Rachel began her career at the Accounting Aid Society in 2010 as a Tax Site Supervisor in our individual tax program. Driven by her commitment to strengthening Detroit’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, Rachel has helped the academy grow a broad client portfolio by building relationships with business owners and meeting them where they are in their business cycle. Rachel applies her knowledge, experience and uses a hands-on approach to help clients gain a deeper understanding of their financial operations and maintain tax compliance. She earned her B.B.A from the University of Michigan – Dearborn, where she majored in accounting and holds credentials as an enrolled agent.
At the 2023 Entrepreneur and Small Business Conference Rachel will share how Accounting Aid Society provides low to moderate income taxpayers no-cost tax help and small business assistance.
Venue: Hollywood Casino Hotel at Greektown
Address:1200 Saint Antoine Street, Detroit, MI 48226
With a beautiful skyline and river view, this is the perfect venue for an entrepreneur conference.
Amenities include:
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Free Parking
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Stunning Guest Rooms
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Wifi Available
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Fitness Center with Gym
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Bar / Lounge
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Casino
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Entertainment
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Taxi Service
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Business Center
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Internet Access
CONNECT WITH OUR EXHIBITORS AND VENDORS
Pictures from 2023 Entrepreneurs Forum at Hollywood Casino in Detroit
Attention entrepreneurs and professionals! Don't miss the opportunity to connect with our amazing exhibitors and vendors, representing a variety industries with awesome products and services. Some are experts that provide services to support your business while others are entrepreneurs that you can support in their professional growth and development. Make sure you visit them in the main hall outside of the Grand Ballroom.
2023 Exhibitors & Vendors Include:
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Office Evolution
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QT Business Solutions
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The Carpet Puller
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YTI Office Express
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Coach Wynn, LLC
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In the Mirror Photo Booth
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DZS Luxury Meetings and Events
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Heading Design
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National Entrepreneurs Association
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Dell Technologies
2023 National Entrepreneurs Association Outstanding Business Awards
2023 NEA Service Award
Jerry Scrivo is a speaker and author as well as the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Master Mind Consulting Network where he has worked for over fifteen years serving clients in the areas of marketing, human resources, operations, communications and finance. He is a specialists in planning successful implementation. Prior to joining Master Mind Consulting he had over 30 years experience at some of America’s largest companies including General Motors, Teledyne, Textron, Firestone and Shell Oil along with top management and board experience at several smaller companies. Jerry has degrees from Michigan Technological University (BSME) and Wayne State University (MBA). He is a member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). He has 7 patents and has been listed in “Who’s Who in Technology” Jerry will be recognized for 5 years of service as NEA's board chair.
2023 NEA Outstanding Business
2023 NEA Outstanding Business
Candice "Pretty Stringz" Smith is a world-renowned violinist whose music has the power to illuminate any room. With her enchanting melodies, she creates unforgettable experiences for her audiences. Hailing from Detroit, Candice "Pretty Stringz" discovered her passion for the violin at the young age of nine. She honed her skills at the Detroit School of Arts, receiving private instruction from a member of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and furthered her education at Florida A&M University. Candice's versatility as an artist has afforded her remarkable opportunities, including captivating halftime shows for the NBA New Year's Day, NFL Thanksgiving Day events alongside triple platinum Grammy award-winning artist Big Sean, toured as the esteemed violinist for the multi-platinum award-winning group, Tony! Toni! Tone! She has also garnered media recognition, with appearances on Fox 2, CBS, and most recently the 85 South Show streaming on Netflix.
Natasha Lee is a versatile professional, CEO of Make Your Dreams Come True (MYDCT), and a visionary in business and marketing. With roles spanning Community Maven, Serial Entrepreneur, Business Engineer, Business Coach, Project Manager, Guru Marketing Consultant, and Computer Scientist, Natasha is dedicated to helping others achieve their dreams. In 2006, she became Michigan's youngest African American female call center owner, offering global support services through strategic partnerships with Wix.com and Google. Natasha's commitment to community betterment is evident through initiatives like the Kidpreneur Program and pro bono support for women. Her accolades include recognition as a Walker's Legacy Powerful 25 of Detroit, LinkedIn's Best Website Design Business, and a Brainz Magazine Top 500 Global Influencer. Natasha's international women's empowerment brand, Being That Girl, offers mentorship and business services.
Testimonials from the NEA 2023 Spring Conference
It was an excellent conference. You should feel extremely accomplished. Stacie Croffe, Healthcare Leadership
What a phenomenal event and amazing entrepreneurs Being the difference in the world! The generosity of support, laughter and wisdom shared was unparalleled! Bravo! Bernadette Johnson, Leadership Strategist
Dynamic. Spectacular. Incredible and any other inspiring and positive adjectives can only describe the forum... Colette Hughes, Real Estate Broker
Your event was amazing - fabulous. You should be super proud of what you have done. Linda Schlesinger-Wagner, Founder of Skinnytees