As Black Business Month begins in August, Small Business Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman is set to embark on a tour aimed at highlighting and supporting Black-owned businesses. The tour’s first stop is the state capitol, where Administrator Guzman will engage with local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members to discuss the critical role of Black-owned businesses in driving economic growth and innovation.
Event Overview and Agenda
Throughout the day, Administrator Guzman will participate in a series of events designed to foster dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders in the Black business community. The day’s events will commence with a fireside chat hosted by U.S. Bank, followed by a panel discussion and networking session aimed at providing actionable insights and resources for small business owners.
Welcoming Remarks and Key Participants
Administrator Guzman will be welcomed by several prominent figures from U.S. Bank and the Small Business Administration (SBA), who are committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of Black-owned businesses:
- Mike Richardson: U.S. Bank Market Leader for Arkansas/Missouri
- Cassandra Kidd: U.S. Bank Business Access Advisor in Little Rock
- Adriene Brown: Director of SBA Arkansas
These leaders will provide opening remarks, setting the tone for a day focused on enhancing access to capital, resources, and networking opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.
Fireside Chat Hosted by U.S. Bank
The event will feature a fireside chat, a conversational session aimed at addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Black-owned businesses. Topics will include strategies for overcoming barriers to capital access, leveraging community resources, and fostering innovation and growth in the Black business community.
Brunch and Learn Event
In collaboration with the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and SBA Arkansas, a special “Brunch and Learn” session will be held. This event, designed as a brunch and learn affair, aims to provide attendees with valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the business landscape. The session will be led by Lenwood Long, President of the African American Alliance of CDFI (Community Development Financial Institutions) CEOs.
Panel Discussion: “Navigating the Landscape: Conversations on Capital Access and Small Business Resources”
Following the fireside chat, a panel discussion will focus on the theme “Navigating the Landscape: Conversations on Capital Access and Small Business Resources.” The discussion will bring together a diverse group of experts who will share their experiences and knowledge on securing funding, utilizing business development resources, and scaling operations. The panelists include:
- Candence Brooks: Economic Development Loan Officer, Communities Unlimited
- Jay Young: Central Arkansas Regional Director and Director of Minority Business Development, Forge Fund
- Chauncey Pettis: Director, Arkansas Women’s Business Center
- Charles Blake: Market Executive, Southern Bancorp
- LaTwan Cheathem: Vice President, Business Development Officer, Arkansas Capital Corporation
- Celia Bell: District Director, OK/AR SCORE
- Tania Martinez Chavez: Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center
Each panelist brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on supporting Black-owned businesses through various stages of growth and development.
Event Details
- Location: Rock It! Lab, 120 River Market Avenue, Little Rock
- Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
This “Brunch and Learn” event offers an excellent opportunity for attendees to gain insights from industry leaders, network with peers, and explore resources tailored to support Black-owned businesses. The discussions aim to provide practical solutions and strategies for overcoming common challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, share their own experiences, and connect with professionals who can offer guidance and support.
Conclusion and Networking
The event will conclude with a networking session, allowing participants to further discuss the day’s topics, establish new connections, and explore opportunities for collaboration. This session will be an invaluable opportunity for business owners to build relationships with peers, mentors, and potential partners.
By kicking off Black Business Month with this tour, Administrator Guzman and the SBA are underscoring their commitment to supporting Black-owned businesses and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.