Neighborhood
Asheville | April 1-2, 2025
A Deep Dive into Local Entrepreneurship
Join us this November in the scenic city of Asheville for a transformative gathering, "Catalyzing Local Entrepreneurial Ecosystems." This two-day event is meticulously designed to focus on advancing local entrepreneurship as a powerful tool for social and economic change.
Engaging Sessions & Workshops:
Investing in Entrepreneurs
From Seed to Scale: Dive into the mechanics of funding entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey.
Faith-Based Entrepreneurship
Learn how faith communities are catalyzing social change through innovative entrepreneurial practices.
Reparations Playbook
Examine successful models from reparations initiatives across the country and learn about actionable strategies that have led to significant outcomes, helping communities move towards healing and equity.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Learn to build supportive environments with frameworks that foster local entrepreneurship, from solo entrepreneurs to shared ownership.
Federal Climate Initiatives
Examine how to leverage federal funds for local climate action initiatives that also support economic development.
Innovative Food Systems
Be inspired by creative entrepreneurs on the leading edge of innovating sustainable solutions within their local food economies.
Who's Joining Us?
This event brings together a diverse group of forward-thinking leaders, including social entrepreneurs, impact investors, philanthropists, faith-based organizers, policymakers, and community advocates. United by a common goal to foster economic justice and sustainable community development, participants are ready to share insights, innovate solutions, and catalyze action that drives real change in local economies across the nation. Join us to connect with these change-makers who are not only addressing systemic challenges but are also crafting the future of economic empowerment.
Investors
who understand the cost of doing good
Entrepreneurs
like local businesses, and minority entrepreneurs whose work needs catalytic capital
Philanthropists
like catalytic foundations and other mission-focused funders
People of Faith
who want to build a more just economy
Local Leaders
who are working on community economic development to create thriving, inclusive neighborhoods
Speakers
More to Come Soon...
Lodging
While we do not have a reserved hotel block for this event, there are some great hotels just a short walk from the venue. We recommend checking out The Foundry Hotel, Aloft Hotel, Arras or AC Hotel. Each offers a cozy stay with plenty of local flair, ensuring you’re comfortable and close to all the event activities.
Tentative Schedule
Tuesday, April 1
8:30 Registration 9:30 Conference opens w/Plenary Session 10:30 Breakout Sessions 11:30 Lunch 1:00 Breakout Sessions 2:15: Plenary Session 3:30 Affinity Groups 6:00 Party
Wednesday, April 2
8:30 Continental Breakfast
9:30 Plenary Session
10:30 Breakout Sessions
11:30 Lunch
1:00 Breakout Sessions
2:00 Concluding Plenary
3:00 Site Visits
Why Should You Attend?
Gain insights from leaders who bridge the racial wealth gap through innovative entrepreneurship and community-driven financial solutions.
Connect with like-minded practitioners, impact investors, and policy-makers, all committed to fostering sustainable economic environments.
Explore an extensive range of effective tools and platforms showcased at the event. Learn about new funding mechanisms like the guarantee fund that matches crowdfunding efforts, enabling entrepreneurs to scale their operations significantly.
Asheville combines, rich cultural heritage with a progressive spirit, making it a hub for innovation and community-driven change.
Tap into a wealth of expertise, resources, and a supportive network tailored to both large-scale federal programs and grassroots community initiatives.
Venue
The Historic YMI Cultural Center
Join us at the historic YMI Cultural Center in Asheville, an iconic venue that stands as a testament to the vibrant heritage and ongoing cultural dialogue within the community. This landmark location provides a profoundly inspirational setting that echoes our commitment to economic empowerment and social justice.
Conference Organizers
Rosa Lee Harden
Executive Producer
Leroy Barber
Executive Director
Kevin Jones
Event Curator
