Learning Sessions

Del Consulting Group

Presenter: Evelyne Del

Unlock the tools and strategies needed to turn your supplier diversity initiatives into a defining feature of your organization’s brand. Drawing from the insights in Beyond the Transaction: Building a Brand Legacy in Supplier Diversity, participants will uncover how to develop a distinct brand voice, embed core values into company culture and align personal and organizational growth with diversity goals. Through hands-on activities and actionable strategies, attendees will learn how to address challenges unique to the industry and create a cohesive, inclusive and innovative brand that resonates with stakeholders.

THE POWER PIVOT (45min)

Del Consulting Group

Presenter: Evelyne Del

The Power Pivot guides you through a strategic transformation that positions your brand for long-term success. In this session, you’ll explore how storytelling can become the driving force behind your pivot, helping you align your messaging, connect with your audience, and build a foundation for growth. You’ll learn how to:

• Identify the core story that sets your brand apart and resonates deeply with your audience
• Refine your messaging to reflect your brand’s purpose with clarity and consistency
• Implement strategies that build trust, loyalty, and momentum for sustainable success

A power Pivot is about turning challenges into opportunities and showing up as the leader your business needs. It’s time to embrace the next chapter of your brand story with purpose and confidence. 

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH AI-POWERED TOOLS BY GOOGLE (45min)

Grow with Google Coaches

Presenter: Enovia Bedford

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful technology that can help simplify business tasks and create new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs – but knowing how to use it may seem out of reach. Developed with input from experts at Google, this workshop will explain the basics of AI and how AI-powered tools by Google can help small businesses be more efficient, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth.

REACH CUSTOMERS ONLINE WITH GOOGLE (45min)

Grow with Google Coaches

Presenter: Enovia Bedford

Learn how your business can be found online with Google. This workshop explains how Google Search works and how you can improve a website’s visibility with Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The session also introduces products like Google Business Profile, Google Trends, Search Console, Google Ads, and more.

GET YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS ON GOOGLE SEARCH AND MAPS (45min)

Grow with Google Coaches

Presenter: Enovia Bedford

Showing up when customers are searching online is more important than ever. Ensure customers can find accurate, updated information about your local business on Google Search and Google Maps, no matter which device they use. In this workshop, you will learn how to create and manage a Google Business Profile from start to finish.

NAVIGATING BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES WITH UNC CHAPEL HILL (45min)

UNC Chapel Hill

Presenter: Ted Bohlin

Are you interested in learning more about the opportunities that UNC Chapel Hill may have for your business? Join us for a session of networking and leave with a better understanding of the University’s processes and opportunities that may make the Tarheels one of your newest customers.

UNC Charlotte

Presenter: Ellie Festger

Are you a HUB certified General Contractor or Sub-Contractor seeking to do business with UNC Charlotte? Learn about the requirements, how to register your business and find opportunities with all of the design and construction projects happening on the campus of UNC Charlotte.

TIAA

Presenter: Tiffany Jones

Prepare to analyze your company’s spend with small and diverse businesses, support their executive education, explore potential partnerships and drive supplier advocacy.

Growmetix

Presenter: Nikita Allen

In this session, Nikita explores real world examples of partnerships (including her team’s work with the NBA) that leveraged the power of connection to secure BIG BUSINESS with government and large corporations. She explains how growing MBE companies can overcome size limitations and resources with the right strategic partnerships.

Mecklenburg County Office of Economic Development

Presenters: Barry Turner and Monica Grier

This session will cover key elements of a strong capability statement, strategies for engaging decision-makers, and practical techniques for seamlessly integrating it into networking and ultimately turning conversations into potential contracts.

NC Spotless Pros Powerwashing

Presenters: Jessica Richey

Learn how strategic networking can turn conversations into contracts. In this session, you’ll discover real examples of how meaningful connections lead to new opportunities and contract wins. Gain practical strategies for building relationships, nuturing your network, and positioning your business for success in local procurement. This session is perfect for small business owners looking to grow through the power of networking.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR MINORITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Presenter: John Ham

So you’ve made the decision to grow your business – congratulations! Now get ready for the next challenge: how to scale your business for growth. This session will provide you with tools, resources, strategies and critical steps to position your business for long-term growth.

SMALL BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY & DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Presenter: Danielle Jones

This introductory course provides an overview of the world of government contracting. Learn the basics of how to do business with federal, state, and local governments, including where to find opportunities, understanding the bidding process, and navigating the complex regulations. This class will cover key topics like registrations (SAM, etc.), contract types, and tips for successful proposal writing. Ideal for businesses of all sizes interested in exploring government contracting as a potential revenue stream.

SMALL BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY & DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Presenter: Danielle Jones

This introductory class explores the world of small business certifications, covering what they are, why they’re valuable, and the different types available. Learn how certifications can help your business gain credibility, access new opportunities, and potentially increase revenue. We’ll discuss eligibility requirements, the application process, and resources to help you navigate the certification landscape. This course is ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to enhance their competitive edge.

NC DOA HUB Office

Presenters: Carla Copes, Christopher Lawhorne

Want to do business with the State of North Carolina? This class will walk you through the process of becoming a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) certified in NC. We’ll cover eligibility requirements, the application process, required documentation, and the benefits of HUB certification for your small business. Learn how to access new opportunities and grow your business by becoming a certified HUB vendor.

Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership

Presenters: Lauren Calloway

IFEL is looking forward to discussing the necessary steps to becoming capital-ready for lenders. Through IFEL’s Get Capital Ready Program, they support entrepreneurs in:

Determining the right financial management system for their business

Producing high-quality financial statements

Preparing realistic financial projections

Presenting their business in a compelling way to funders

Focal Point Coaching

Presenters: Charles Watkins

Are you a business owner who sees the market potential but is overwhelmed by the number of business opportunities?  Join Charles for a session to help you identify the ideal customers for your business and engagement techniques which will have your ideal customers begging you to serve them!