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CIRLE OF CHAMPIONS
Session One: Intention Setting
Jerrainne Jackson
Session Two: Why Certification Matters in a “Merit-Based Economy”
John Guenther and Larry Jones
Session Three: Funding Panel: What Kind of Capital is Right for Your Business?
David Lane, Wilson Lester, and Michael McKinney
Session Four: Unpacking the Noise: What’s Next for Equity?
Kiva Elliott and Millie Russell
Networking and Resource Fair
TRIAD BUSINESS JOURNAL
LEADERS IN DIVERSITY PANEL
Moderator:
Dr. Chanelle James, UNC Greensboro
Panelists:
Tiffany Jacobs, Forge Greensboro
Precious McCloud, Truliant Federal Credit Union
Kate Phillips, Greensboro Chamber of Commerce
SESSIONS
Session: Intention Setting
Presented by:
Jerrainne Jackson, Interise
Have you ever left a professional networking event, workshop, or industry conference brimming with ideas and inspiration, only to forget everything you learned the second you get back to work? In this short session, Interise will be helping Economic Impact Day attendees focus on their goals, learning objectives, and strategies for making the most out of the day’s offerings. Whether it’s connecting with five new potential clients or finally understanding the difference between a business loan and a line of credit (and everything in between), this session will ensure that you start the day with a strategic mindset and end it with tangible, actionable results.
Session: Why Certification Matters in a “Merit-Based” Economy
Presented
by:
John Guenther and Larry Jones
In this session, you will learn about the benefits and uses of professional certification for your business. Recently, legislation has begun eliminating supplier diversity programs in the public and private sector. For any business of any kind, certification still matters! If you are already certified, learn how you can make the most of it in a new “merit-based” economy. If you are not certified, learn the whys and how’s of the process
SESSIONS
Session: Funding Panel: What kind of capital is right for your business?
Presented by: Michael McKinney, Wilson Lester, and David Lane
Have you ever been worried about your business’ finances? Even if you haven’t, you may be missing out on opportunities to fortify your financial position and increase your competitive advantage In this panel, you will learn about the benefits and drawbacks of different types of businesses capital directly from the experts who offer them: a Community Development Financial Institution, a Private Equity firm, and a traditional bank.
Session: Unpacking the Noise: What’s Next for Equity?
Presented by: Kiva Elliott and Millie Russell
Join Kiva Elliot and Millie Russell for a thought-provoking session as they delve into the current landscape of equity and explore the next steps for meaningful progress There will be dialogue to unpack the noise surrounding equity, highlight the challenges, and discuss actionable strategies for creating lasting impact. Just bring your voice and let’s tackle what’s truly next for equity in today’s evolving world.
PRESENTERS
iva Elliott
va Elliott is the Co-Founder of RIOTT For Change, a consulting and arning firm that specializes in change management and transforming ganizational culture A passionate advocate for sustainable change, va believes true transformation can only occur through disruption That eans embracing a mindset of curiosity, taking risks, and courageously arning and unlearning.
ith over 30 years of experience across industries like financial services, R consulting, and healthcare, Kiva has been a driving force behind major organizational shifts From spearheading impactful strategies to transforming corporate cultures, she’s played a key role in helping organizations thrive in times of change.
Kiva finds joy in giving back to her community. She has served on several community boards through the years and is currently a board member for both the Greensboro YMCA and the Greensboro Housing Coalition
When she's not helping shape the future of organizations, Kiva can be found bonding and loving on her family and friends. She enjoys watching sports, girl’s nights out, taking naps, exploring new adventures and hosting her new podcast with her son as co-host
PRESENTERS
John Guenther
John Guenther has served in Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) since May of 2015. His role is primarily focused on reporting and compliance, reporting systems, and training for reporting entities on HUB solicitation requirements
John supports State agencies on construction projects, helping find vendors, posting bid opportunities on the HUB Office website and whatever else is needed around the office.
He conducts regular webinars for public entities to understand their responsibilities around seeking HUB participation in building construction projects as well as the purchases of goods and services.
John has a Bachelor of Science in Energy Resources Development from James Madison University and a Masters of Public Administration from North Carolina State University, and is a Certified Master Compliance Administrator.
PRESENTERS
Jerrainne
Jackson
Jerrianne advances small business-led economic development by cultivating strategic networks that amplify Interise’s mission. A Certified Economic Developer, she brings a decade of experience with the City of Charlotte, where she led inclusive procurement initiatives and small business growth. She holds degrees in Economics and Political Science from Winthrop University.
Jerrianne also channels her entrepreneurial spirit as the owner of Blu J Agency, real estate, and Blu Place meeting space in Rock Hill, SC
PRESENTERS
Tiffany Jacobs
In 2024, Tiffany Jacobs moved from her highly successful career with ApprenticeshipNC, part of the Economic Development Division of the North Carolina Community College System, to become the new Executive Director of Forge Greensboro. Forge Greensboro is a community makerspace located in downtown Greensboro, NC which proudly serves over 400 members, making it the largest community makerspace in the southeast. Tiffany has served on the Board of Directors for the Forge Greensboro since 2018. She has spearheaded several collaborative partnerships, career exploration programs and workforce development initiatives, all with an intentional focus on exposure, experiential learning, and equity .
Tiffany was a recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Women in Business award and the 2023 Leaders in Diversity award issued by the Triad Business Journal. She continues to work tirelessly to aid in creating a better-skilled, well-trained workforce to help close the existing skills gap and increase workforce and economic development opportunities throughout the state of North Carolina She firmly believes that diversity of thought is a prerequisite for creativity and innovation With Tiffany at the helm of the Forge Greensboro, she is truly excited about the future partnerships and opportunities she will create next for the community!
Tiffany is also currently a participant in the 2025 Scale to Excel cohort.
PRESENTERS
Dr. Chanelle James
Dr Channelle James is a distinguished scholar and coach based in Greensboro, North Carolina. Her research centers on justice and entrepreneurship. Dr. James brings her passion for social impact to her role as a faculty member in the Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality, and Tourism at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro. She teaches and researches Social and Sustainable Entrepreneurship, advocating for Inclusion to foster resilient, communitydriven ecosystems.
As the Dean’s Fellow for School Climate, Dr James promotes inclusive academic environments while innovating through her nonprofit, Community Ventures, which develops sustainable solutions for communities. In 2021, she began teaching the Scale to Excel course with the Greensboro Chamber, a program designed by Interise to support minority-owned businesses poised for growth. Dr. James’s extensive expertise includes feasibility analysis, business strategy, innovation, and sustainable venture growth, and he co-authored the textbook Mastering the Art: An Entrepreneurial Guide to a Profit-Driven Marketing Plan
Outside academia, Dr. James owns Dragonfly Media and Training LLC, is a certified Professional Registered Parliamentarian, and actively contributes to organizations such as the Piedmont Triad Chapter of Red Cross, the Triad Parliamentarian Unit, and the Green Gavel Parliamentarian Unit. Honored as a 2024 Triad Business Journal Leader in Diversity, Dr. James is an inspiring advocate for equity and purpose-driven entrepreneurship, guiding students and changemakers in transforming communities
PRESENTERS
Larry Jones
Larry Jones served in the United States Marine Corps and retired after 26 years as a Sergeant Major Throughout his tenure in the Marine Corps he held a variety of leadership positions, which ranged from training and mentorship to antiterrorism, counter terrorism and international counter drug operations.
After a successful career in the military Larry transitioned to a career in corporate America, as a Diversity Program Manager and Corporate Trainer with Ferguson Enterprises, Inc
In addition to his military and corporate experience, Larry has served in several positions with Saint Leo University to include; Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice, Academic Advisor, Assistant Director, Associate Director, and as the Area Director of the Education Centers in South Hampton Roads Virginia.
Larry is a graduate of Saint Leo University and holds a master’s degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Critical Incident Management and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology In conjunction with his formal education, his passion for diversity and equity led him to attend the Department of Defense Diversity Equal Opportunity Military Institute Course (DEOMI) at Patrick Air Force Base.
PRESENTERS
David Lane
David Lane joined TowneBank in 2019 and has more than 15 years of financial industry experience He assists local business owners in the planning and execution of their financial goals. One of the best parts of his job is witnessing his members develop into seasoned partners in the communities they serve.
David earned his Bachelor's Degree in Business and Economics from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He also serves on the UNCG Bryan School of Business and Administration Alumni Board
PRESENTERS
Wilson Lester
Wilson Lester is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Partners in Equity (PIE) PIE is a private equity investment company focusing on business purpose real estate. Noting that transferable assets are the most sustainable pathway to generational wealth, PIE’s strategy focuses on underinvested communities with a higher index of tenancy versus ownership, offering an opportunity for more businesses to own where they operate. Wilson’s leadership extends beyond traditional investment strategies. He is the visionary behind Piedmont Business Capital, a pioneering North Carolina-based Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), which has strategically deployed millions in impact capital to uplift Black-owned businesses across the state
As the Co-Founder of the ACCESS Center for Equity and Success, he plays a crucial regional role in empowering minority business enterprises to access public and private contract opportunities, thereby advancing economic inclusion. His commitment to transformative philanthropy is evident through his roles as Treasurer and Investment Committee member at the Cone Health Foundation and his board positions at the Triad Advisory Council for Truist Bank and Greensboro College His involvement with various boards dedicated to health and economic development, including past contributions to the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs Advocacy Committee, underscores his dedication to shaping policies that benefit Black businesses and foster resilient communities, highlighting his unwavering commitment to economic inclusion.
Believing that generational wealth starts with educating family, Wilson created Nocho Park Redevelopment, an infill residential development company, to introduce his family to a living-learning lab that provides affordable housing in the community while building long-term assets. Wilson earned his undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Greensboro College and his Master of Science in Management, Strategy, and Leadership from the Eli Broad School of Business at Michigan State University.
PRESENTERS
Michael McKinney’s career spans 30 years, transcending the boardroom, extending to both the banking and financial management industries
Highly skilled in implementing strategic business plans to maximize fundraising, he has a working knowledge of organizational management and viable business development processes. Now serving as the leader of Piedmont Business Capital, he is continuing his deep commitment to fostering growth within his beloved Greensboro community. Michael's educational background equips him with the tools for success. His master's degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from High Point University and Master’s in Banking from Boston University allows him to navigate the intricacies of organizational development and financial management - which are essential for promoting PBC's mission of empowering small businesses. Michael's commitment extends far beyond PBC. He actively serves on the Greensboro War Memorial Commission and the Minimum Housing Standard Commission
Michael McKinney
PRESENTERS
Precious Quire-McCloud
Precious Quire-McCloud is the Senior Vice President of Diversity and Social Responsibility at Truliant Federal Credit Union, where she has been employed for 11 5 years In her current role, she oversees the organization’s social responsibility initiatives and leads enterprise-wide efforts to foster workplace inclusion and belonging
Precious’ leadership background spans over 25 years across contact center operations, offshore BPO, loss mitigation, and human resources.
A servant leader at heart, the hallmark of her leadership has always been undergirded by her strong desire to leave people better than she found them. She serves at her church and actively contributes to her community by serving on the boards of the NC Black Repertory Company and the Carolinas Credit Union League Foundation. She currently chairs the Forsyth Technical Community College Foundation board.
Precious holds an MBA from High Point University and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Appalachian State University. Additionally, she has earned an executive certificate in Strategic Leadership and is pursuing a doctoral degree in the same field Precious resides in the Triad with her husband of 27 years, their four children, and their beloved 10 5-year-old English Lab, Jax
PRESENTERS
te Phillips
came to the Chamber of Commerce in 2022 with a strong ground in nonprofit work, volunteerism, and advocacy in the DEI e. She is passionate about building a more just and equitable economy moving barriers for historically underutilized businesses (HUBs). She mmitted to uplifting the economic and business cases for Supplier rsity across the public and private sectors.
Kate holds a Master's in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro
As Director of Accelerate Greensboro with the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Kate engages regional minority-owned firms and builds programming around their needs, with a focus on capacity building and strategic operations. Long-term, she is partnering with other local leaders to drive initiatives that make small- and large-scale contract procurement more accessible to HUBs across all industries.
In 2024, she served on the steering committee for Guilford County Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, and is currently Co-Chair of the 2025 event She was recently recognized by NCCJ as a 2024 Inclusion Champion.
Kate currently sits on the board of A Joyous Transition: a Greensboro nonprofit organization that serves women impacted by domestic violence, mental illness, housing insecurity, and systemic barriers to thriving.
PRESENTERS
Millie Russell
Millie's approach to life is rooted in inclusivity. From her early years as a self-described "Army brat," her personal journey has focused on learning, growth, and transitioning from assimilation to authenticity She spent her childhood moving between the United States and Europe, learning and adapting to new cultures and sharpening her connection skills with people of diverse backgrounds to overcome feeling like an outsider.
After a 26-year corporate career in organizational, leadership and employee development, Millie reevaluated her life during the COVID-19 pandemic Seeking a fresh new entrepreneurial journey, she became a CoFounder of RIOTT for Change, a change management and organizational culture consulting and learning firm. She's also a leadership coach, motivational speaker and new author.
Millie is an avid strategist, innovator, self-described "people seer" and healer who is passionate about helping organizations succeed while maintaining a culture of belonging for all employees.
MEMBER DIRECTORY
We hope you enjoy the 2025 Economic Equity Day and have the opportunity to connect with many of the outstanding businesses and organizations that make up the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce. Each company you meet today represents the innovation, commitment, and community spirit driving Greensboro forward.
Want to learn more about the members you connected with or discover others in our network? Explore our online directory, your trusted resource for finding the businesses shaping our community.
Thank you for supporting our members and championing the success of local businesses !
MEMBER DIRECTORY
Greensboro, NC 27401 Visit Us
111 W. February One Place
We are conveniently located in the heart of downtown Greensboro, just steps away from Elm Street and the city’s top attractions. The main entrance to our office is on the side of the building facing February One Place. Look for our Greensboro Chamber of Commerce sign above the door.
Office Hours:
Mondays to Thursdays: 8:30 am to 5 pm Fridays: 8:30 am to 12 noon
Closed on weekends and major holidays
JOIN
What Does Joining the Chamber Mean to You?
Joining the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce means stepping into a network of influential leaders, industry innovators, and passionate community advocates. As a member, your company will be at the forefront of shaping Greensboro’s future through meaningful connections, exclusive events, and strategic partnerships. You’ll gain access to critical resources and insights that drive success, engage with community leaders and policymakers, and amplify your business’ impact in both the local and regional economy. Together, we’re not just growing businesses we’re driving Greensboro forward.
Why Join?
A membership gives your business and your people opportunities to make meaningful connections, stay informed, and engage in the community. Be recognized, build reputation, and be heard by joining the largest business community in Greensboro.
Networking
The Chamber’s networking opportunities provide large corporations in Greensboro with access to new clients, valuable partnerships, and industry insights that drive growth. By engaging in Chamber events, your business can build meaningful connections with local leaders, collaborate with key stakeholders, and stay ahead of market trends. These connections open doors for strategic partnerships and new business opportunities that lead to long-term success, positioning your company as a leader in Greensboro’s vibrant economic ecosystem.
The Chamber hosts 60+ networking events each year with 6,000+ attendees.
