IMPACT REPORT 2024
IMPACT REPORT 2024
“ONE OF THE UNIQUE THINGS ABOUT OUR PROGRAM IS MAKING SURE THAT WE HAVE THE THREE Cs—CAPITAL, CONTRACTS AND CONNECTIONS. WE’RE INTENTIONAL ABOUT WORKING WITH EMPLOYER-OWED MIDDLE MARKET FIRMS AS THESE ARE THE TYPES OF FIRMS THAT WILL EMPLOY OTHERS AND MOVE THE NEEDLE ON CLOSING THE RACIAL INCOME INEQUALITY GAP IN THE UNITED STATES.”
— DR. TIFFANY R. BUSSEY, FOUNDING DIRECTOR OF MIEC
UNDERREPRESENTATION OF BLACK ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Throughout American history, access to entrepreneurial opportunities has been unequal, with racism creating barriers that hindered African American entrepreneurs and limited their ability to build generational wealth. Despite these challenges, Black entrepreneurship has remained a vital force for economic empowerment within the community.
Yet, there is work to be done. In 2019, the median Black household had only 12.7% of the wealth of the median white household, and the gap widened between 2019 and 2021. While Black entrepreneurs have made progress, recent “anti-DEI” movements and policies threaten to undo these gains and further harm Black-owned businesses.
Despite these setbacks, the Morehouse Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC) remains committed to addressing the underrepresentation of Black entrepreneurs. MIEC continues to lead efforts to create lasting change, ensuring African American business leaders not only survive but thrive in the years ahead.
I
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.’S INFLUENCE
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one of Morehouse’s most illustrious alumni, played a pivotal role in both the civil rights movement and the college’s history. Graduating in 1948 with a degree in sociology, King was deeply in uenced by the teachings of President Benjamin E. Mays, who served as a mentor and spiritual guide. King’s time at Morehouse helped to solidify his commitment to social justice and laid the foundation for his future as a global leader in the ght for equality.
Although Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy is mainly rooted in social justice, it is also one of fostering economic empowerment within the Black community. His advocacy for the Poor People’s Campaign and economic justice highlighted the importance of economic independence and entrepreneurship as a means to uplift the community. By connecting Dr. King’s ideals to entrepreneurial success, MIEC continues his vision of using economic empowerment as a tool for social change. Our work in supporting Black entrepreneurs can be seen as a direct extension of Dr. King’s dream of advancing economic equality.
E
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE: A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
Morehouse College, a prestigious, historically Black, liberal arts institution for men, was founded in 1867 as the Augusta Institute, with a singular mission: to educate and empower men who are intellectually, socially and morally prepared to lead and make a di erence in their professions and communities.
After relocating to Atlanta in 1879, a city pulsating with the rhythm of Black resilience, the institution was renamed Morehouse College in honor of Henry L. Morehouse, a Baptist minister and prominent philanthropist dedicated to the education of African Americans. is renaming marked a signi cant milestone re ecting its growing reputation. Grounded in this tradition of excellence, Morehouse equips its graduates with the skills and values necessary to tackle the complex challenges of today’s world. With a legacy of transformative leaders and changemakers who have shaped the nation and the world, Morehouse continues to advance the next generation of visionaries who are committed to service, innovation and positive change and impact.
THE ONGOING EVOLUTION OF MIEC
MIEC empowers diverse, small businesses and entrepreneurs through targeted mentorship, strategic partnerships and comprehensive programming.
Originally started as an HBCU provider for developmental assistance support to small rms under the DoD Mentor Protégé Program by Senator Sam Nunn and Secretary of Defense William J. Perry, MIEC has evolved into a cornerstone of support for diverse enterprises, particularly in construction, healthcare, IT and green industries.
We aim to bridge the gap between small businesses and large-scale procurement opportunities by providing access to capital, contracts and industry-speci c expertise. rough carefully curated cohort programs, MIEC partners with large companies including IBM, JP Morgan Chase & Co. and Lockheed Martin, enabling our participants to secure signi cant contracts and scale their operations.
A UNIQUE ECOSYSTEM FLAGSHIP PROGRAMMING
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE MENTOR-PROTÉGÉ PROGRAM (MPP)
For over two decades, MIEC has proudly supported the DoD MPP. In partnership with major defense contractors, we have helped grow over 120 protégé companies nationwide. Our support includes quality management, technical certifications, accounting enhancements and business development. With 13 Nunn-Perry Award-winning teams, MIEC’s dedication to mentorship has enabled numerous businesses to succeed in the defense sector.
SMALL
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER (SBDC AT MOREHOUSE COLLEGE)
This 3-to-6-month immersive experience empowers entrepreneurs of color and women-owned businesses. The program offers executive coaching, networking and hands-on learning with industry experts. Participants gain skills in securing contracts and capital while collaborating with Morehouse scholars and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC at Morehouse College)
BLACK BUSINESS RESEARCH
With the support of JP Morgan Chase & Co., we’ve launched a groundbreaking research initiative to elevate Black voices, understand the unique challenges faced by Black businesses and drive change in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through seven convenings, we’re collaborating with leaders from Business-serving Organizations (BSOs) in metro Atlanta to co-create a framework for scaling Black businesses. Our Community-engaged Research (CER) methodology centers Black professionals as experts, ensuring our research remains rooted in real-world experiences.
MARKET ACCESS COUNCIL
The Council promotes inclusive supplier sourcing by connecting high-growth entrepreneurs of color and women-owned businesses with procurement opportunities. By simplifying processes, removing barriers and incentivizing supplier diversity, the Council drives meaningful change in procurement practices.
20 YEARS OF MIEC
2004 20112020 2006NOW
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
The inaugural work of MIEC began with the Department of Defense Mentor-Protégé Program (DoD MPP), the oldest continuously operating federal mentor-protégé program. MIEC supports large prime contractors and provides developmental support services to smaller protégé firms nationwide, helping them grow and scale to more effectively compete for, win and perform work as federal contractors. MIEC is among the first HBCUs to support this work in a contractual relationship with large primes that have included IBM, Lockheed Martin, EDS/ Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Northrup Grumman, General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), Booz Allen Hamilton WiSC, QED and ARServices. To date, MIEC cohort members have won 13 Nunn-Perry Awards that recognize the best in service under the DoD MPP program.
STUDENT PR0GRAMS
Two years after its inception, MIEC offers one-off for-credit classes in entrepreneurship and student experiential programs to expose students to the entrepreneurial mindset. Early programs include a speaker series, Tiger pitch competition and global experiences. Today, these programs have evolved to a more comprehensive wraparound curricula and real-world experience through the Studio with early-stage programming, mentoring, undiluted capital, legal clinics, meetups and exposure to global and local ecosystem networks. Today, MIEC offers five for-credit courses offered as a minor in Innovation & Entrepreneurship under the division of Business & Economics. 2,500+ students have studied in MIEC courses and participated in related programming.
LAUNCHING EARLYSTAGE BUSINESSES
MIEC sponsors the Morehouse Innovation Expo, A two-day event with a Student Business Plan Competition, Innovative Creative Entrepreneur (ICE) Awards, Workshops and Networking Sessions, Student Research Poster and Oral Presentations, along with a Health Disparities Symposium. MIEC focuses on helping early-stage startups launch and achieve ongoing business viability culminating in the Ascend 2020 Cities Program.
20202022 2023 2024 INTO THE FUTURE
SCALING FOR THE NEXT STAGE OF GROWTH AND THE INTRODUCTION OF INDUSTRY FOCUSED HEALTHCARE COHORT
MIEC sponsors the first AGAP Industry Agnostic Cohort 1 and 2. Although participants represent businesses in different industry verticals, the program shifts focus from incubating early-stage companies to supporting existing businesses looking to advance to the next stage of growth and scale. Cohort 3 focused on Healthcare in 2022.
INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC FOCUS - AVIATION CONSTRUCTION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
MIEC sponsors its second industry-specific AGAP Cohort 4 focusing exclusively on small businesses working in Aviation Construction and related businesses. Cohort 5 focused on Information Technology.
INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC FOCUS – AIRPORT CONCESSIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Cohort 6 sponsoring small businesses working in Airport Concessions in partnership with AMAC and a second Information Technology-focused Cohort 7.
For the next twenty years and beyond, MIEC will continue to establish Morehouse as the Epicenter of Black Business Research and Practice.
This includes the Market Access Council, which connects businesses with capital and contracts while fostering a supportive alumni community. Key industry focuses include Clean Tech, Construction, Manufacturing, Retail and Shared Services.
MIEC is also pioneering a Community-engaged Research (CER) methodology that centers Black professionals as experts, gathering culturally relevant strategies and case studies to set a new standard for inclusive, impactful research.
Additionally, MIEC continues its support of the DoD Mentor-Protégé Program and provides student experiential opportunities to nurture the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.
MIEC
Gross Revenue Generated by MIEC Program Participants
Capital Raised
New Jobs Created
New Contracts Generated
$255,000,000 $35,400,000 596
$255,000,000 $35,400,000
Businesses Impacted
1,154 411
PARTICIPANT DEMOGRAPHICS
INDUSTRIES
Concession businesses operate within a larger entity, providing goods or services to its clientele at venues including airport kiosks.
The Construction industry works across architectural planning and engineering to skilled labor and project management for the design, building and repair of physical structures.
Healthcare provides medical services, preventative care and health education through hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, medical research and professional caregivers.
Finance includes banks, investment firms and insurance companies that provide services ranging from personal banking and loans to complex investment strategies and wealth management.
Food Production encompasses agriculture, food manufacturing, packaging and retail along with ensuring a safe and sustainable food supply.
16.4% 27.9% 21.3% 24.6% 9.8% 55.4%
MOST COMMON LOCATIONS
Outside of Georgia
35% 25% 6.7% 6.7% 5.0% 44.6%
Atlanta, Georgia
Stone Mountain, Georgia
Conyers, Georgia
Snellville, Georgia
COHORT SPOTLIGHT: CELEBRATING ALUMNI SUCCESS STORIES OVER THE YEARS, THE MOREHOUSE INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER HAS BEEN A CATALYST FOR NUMEROUS ENTERPRENEURS WHO HAVE GONE ON TO ACHIEVE SIGNIFICANT SUCCESS IN THEIR RESPECTIVE INDUSTRIES. THE FOLLOWING SPOTLIGHT HIGHLIGHTS A FEW OF THE STANDOUT ALUMNI WHOSE JOURNEYS EXEMPLIFY THE IMPACT AND EFFECTIVENESS OF MIEC’S PROGRAMS.
97 % CLIENT RETENTIO N
Constance Hunter — Expanding Hair Care Solutions to New Locations
Constance Hunter has transformed her haircare and scalp treatment business into a center for specialized skin treatment and hair care. She started with a single studio and has currently expanded to three locations, sta ed by a team of haircare experts trained in her signature treatments, including trichology and therapeutic shampoo massage service to address medical issues associated with alopecia and other skin conditions. Constance addresses more complicated health concerns alongside beauty, all backed with her mantra, “When it comes to hair care, we do it all.” With essential nancial and operational guidance from the MIEC program, Constance has embraced sustainable business practices that have helped her salon maintain an impressive 97% client retention rate — even throughout COVID-19 — underscoring her dedication to client service and well-being. Constance credits MIEC for giving her the resources and the aspiration to scale her business.
20+ YEARS OF RETAIL LOSS PREVENTION
Barbara Jones — Transforming Retail Through Innovative SaaS Technology
As part of the inaugural cohort of Morehouse’s Innovation and Entrepreneur Center’s Ascend 2020 program, Barbara Jones transitioned her business from consulting to software development. Her SaaS platform, Freeing Returns, helps retailers prevent loss and reclaim millions by detecting fraud and reducing ine ciencies. Leveraging her extensive background in retail tech, including key roles at Oracle helping build its multi-billion dollar retail vertical, Barbara brings to bear 20+ years of expertise to her current leadership role. Barbara’s business acumen and resilience in overcoming industry biases as a Black woman in tech have inspired many. She reminds her mentees from Spelman College to be optimistic, but also stresses that without requisite preparation and resources, “You can have a grand opening and a grand closing the same week” – and advises all entrepreneurs to remain grounded and maintain sound nancials as they pursue their dreams.
$100M +
Ben Skyles ‘87 — Growing Through Government Services Contracts
Ben Skyles, founder of ProSource360 Consulting Services, left a corporate career to create a business dedicated to serving federal agencies with project management, acquisition support and nancial management. Over time, Ben expanded the business to include healthcare and IT services, securing contracts with agencies including the U.S. Department of Agriculture. With support from MIEC and Morehouse’s ASCEND program, Ben successfully broadened his o erings, securing major contracts including the USDA’s ve-year IT plan, where his team collaborated with major government contractor Deloitte. Now employing nearly 200 colleagues and securing more than $100 million in contracts, ProSource 360’s success story exempli es how e ective mentorship and networking can help foster growth and outsized success. Ben has now turned his focus to “ProSource360 2.0,” a vision of continued business expansion and mentoring future entrepreneurs.
35+ SIMULTANEOUS PROJECTS
Archie Deese — O shoring For Growth and Global E ciency
Archie Deese, founder of e Paint Doctor, is in the process of rebranding his company to Socium Coatings, meaning “partner” in Latin, to re ect his company’s core values: relationships, competency, character, consistency and innovation. Serving primarily commercial clients, Socium Coatings specializes in compliance-intensive, major projects, including work for the Atlanta Airport. rough MIEC’s aviation cohort, Archie accessed vital networks and insights, positioning Socium Coatings for ongoing growth and long-term success. To create operational e ciencies in project management and on-site compliance and back o ce functions, Socium Coatings leverages a remote team of accountants, engineers and administrative sta in Argentina and other locations. is geographically distributed team enables Socium to handle 35 or more projects at once, enhancing operational e ciency and supporting future growth.
2023 PERSON OF THE YEAR
Ken Taunton — Scaling Sta ng Solutions in Government Healthcare
Ken Taunton, founder of e Royster Group, has transformed his company from a boutique recruiting rm into a leader in healthcare sta ng, supplying physicians, nurses and healthcare sta , along with HR and nance sta for the Defense Health Agency. MIEC’s healthcare cohort enabled Ken to expand his network and re ne his nancial strategy, leading to business opportunities with major entities including the City of Atlanta, Delta Airlines and WellStar. In 2023, Ken was awarded the Small Business Person of the Year in Georgia, which earned him recognition at the White House. Ken credits his success to his commitment to his company’s values — Customer Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Accountability and Respect — that guide his mission to deliver excellent sta ng solutions in military healthcare… and beyond.
Magha Devan — Growing Data Analytics Through a Pivot to Federal Agencies
Magha Devan,co-founder of Entellimatrix,has transformed his data analytics firm from a small startup into a trusted partner for 11 federal agencies.Entellimatrix joined the MIEC small business venture program,ASIN, where Magha received one-on-one consulting,professional and peer support that helped Entellimatrix pivot to federal contracts,securing a crucial prime contract with the U.S.Air Force during the pandemic.This shift diversified the company’s client base and fueled sustained growth despite the COVID-19 disruption to businesses throughout the world.Magha credits MIEC’s support with enhancing Entellimatrix’s resilience,continued operations and growth through consulting and a zero-interest loan to stabilize cash flow. Being a part of MIEC has led to partnerships,joint ventures and long-term growth opportunities,reinforcing Magha’s belief in the power of intentional networking and resourcefulness within the small business ecosystem.
OVER 10 MILLION IN REVENUE IN 18 MONTHS $10M +
Robert Steward — Building a Telecom Powerhouse Through Data and Voice Transmission
Robert Steward, CEO of End2End Solutions, has expanded his business from a consultancy to a telecom industry leader, serving major clients like Verizon and T-Mobile. Robert joined MIEC in 2022, sponsored by World Wide Technology, the largest Black-owned company in the United States. The program provided business management insights in finance, operations, HR and sales, helping Robert to expand one division’s revenue from $500,000 to $6 million in just 12 months. Robert leveraged strategic insights and connections like Bridge Marketplace to secure financing to fuel rapid expansion, growing one division’s revenue from $500,000 to $6 million in a single year and adding 58 new team members. MIEC’s mentorship was also instrumental in helping expand End2End’s revenue from $3 million to $10 million within 18 months, positioning End2End for continued explosive growth to meet rising demand for 5G and AI-driven telecom solutions.
25+ YEARS
Virginia Murphy — Elevating Skilled Tradespeople Through Training and Opportunity
YEARS
For 25+ years, Virginia Murphy has worked to elevate and advance the careers of skilled tradespeople. She launched her business, Waste Water Industrial Solutions, in 2017 to specialize in structural steel and wastewater treatment. MIEC provided Virginia “with all the resources a small business really can’t afford, for free,” allowing her to shift from working solely “in” her business to working “on” it as well. Mentors from the program provided both initial ongoing guidance, creating a lasting “cohort that never ends.” Virginia’s journey underscores the importance of valuing skilled trades and applying strategic business tools to achieve sustainable growth. She advises all of her employees to engage, put in the work and take advantage of any and all of the opportunities they are afforded: “If you give me a chance, I’ll kick the door in.”
$50K+
Louis Deas ‘11 — Cooking Up New Flavors and Scaling Growth
Louis Deas, a Morehouse College alumnus and founder of Try Deas and Other Treats, created a business that blends southern culture with healthier snack options. With unique flavors like raspberry spice almonds and red velvet cake cashews, there are currently eight flavors of Deas Nuts available with more in development.
Louis participated in MIEC’s ASCEND program and received a $50,000 character-based loan in partnership with the Village Micro fund to fuel growth. MIEC’s resources, including mentorship, financial management training and later, active participation in its concessionaire cohort, helped Louis launch and scale his business.
Louis credits his mentors at MIEC with enhancing his business mindset, instilling practical business management skills and bestowing on-the-ground knowledge critical for starting and growing a business: when you’re starting out: “You don’t know what you don’t know.”
MOREHOUSE INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER (MIEC)
STUDENT INITIATIVES MOREHOUSE COLLEGE HAS A LONG AND STORIED LEGACY OF PRODUCING LEADERS WHO GO ON TO MAKE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELDS. MIEC IS PROUD TO PLAY A ROLE IN CULTIVATING THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT OF OUR STUDENTS, PROVIDING THEM WITH THE TOOLS AND RESOURCES THEY NEED TO TRANSFORM THEIR INNOVATIVE IDEAS INTO IMPACTFUL VENTURES. THIS SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASES STUDENT INITIATIVES ALONG WITH EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS WHOSE JOURNEYS EXEMPLIFY THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF MIEC’S PROGRAMS AND MENTORSHIP.
2024 STUDENT ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP CONSULTING PROGRAM CELEBRATION
EDUCATION, CAPITAL AN D MENTORSHIP
MIEC’s entrepreneurial model is largely shaped by Dr. Tiffany Bussey’s strategic vision, transitioning from federal procurement projects to a focus on philanthropic and private funding. This shift has allowed the center to secure significant partnerships, including ongoing support from JPMorgan Chase & Co. funding small business support in the Atlanta area.
The center’s consulting services offer students hands-on experience in developing business strategies and managing operations.
By fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, MIEC prepares students to lead and innovate across various industries, reinforcing the center’s commitment to comprehensive entrepreneurial education.
VENDOR SPONSORSHIPS
Vendor sponsorships and alumni engagement provide essential support to sustain MIEC’s initiatives. For example, Morehouse alums established a venture studio to support student-led startups to nurture and advance the next generation of entrepreneurs.
These sponsorships provide not only financial backing but also mentorship and valuable industry connections, critical for the growth and success of student ventures. Kylan Kester has further built out strategic partnerships, to extend the reach and impact of these sponsorships, ensuring that students have access to the resources and expertise they need to have the best shot at success.
NEW PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES
CAPITAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CAP)
Provides financial and logistical support for student entrepreneurs at major events like Homecoming and Market Fridays.
STUDIO HOURS
Furnishes personalized business, legal and technical advice for student entrepreneurs.
EXTENDED NETWORKING AND WORKSHOPS
Features advanced topics in entrepreneurship and technology.
ANNUAL CBE ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUMMIT
Brings together entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders to discuss and promote Black entrepreneurship.
CBE FIRST PITCH FRIDAY COMPETITION
Offers a platform for Black entrepreneurs to present their new business ideas to a panel of seasoned judges.
CBE ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHOLARS OFFERING
Scholarships and resources to promising Black student entrepreneurs.
LAUNCHPAD AT MOREHOUSE
SPARKING AND NURTURING THE STUDENT ENTREPRENURAL JOURNEY
In the spirit of empowering the next generation of Black leaders, Morehouse College, with support from the Blackstone Charitable Foundation, launched the LaunchPad at Morehouse.
This initiative, led by Kylan Kester, Director of Student Initiatives, provides opportunities for underrepresented student entrepreneurs. Since 2021, Kylan, an advocate for product management and strategic partnerships, has worked tirelessly to grow the program, securing vital resources and establishing the LaunchPad as a key part of Morehouse’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In collaboration with Dr. Tiffany Bussey, Director of MIEC, Kylan has ensured the LaunchPad aligns with MIEC’s mission to break down barriers and broaden access to entrepreneurial education. Together, they’ve created a space where students can turn innovative ideas into successful businesses, supported by mentorship, funding and a network spanning over 110 colleges and universities.
Today, the LaunchPad at Morehouse is a vital resource, reinforcing their belief in the power of Black entrepreneurship to change the world, one idea and one venture at a time.
STUDENT PROGRAMS BY THE NUMBERS
STUDENT ENTREPRENEURS SUPPORTED TO DATE
LAUNCHPAD AT MOREHOUSE COMMUNITY MEMBERS
COMMUNITY EVENTS FACILITATED OR CO-HOSTED – CONNECTING STUDENTS WITH INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS
STARTUP CAPITAL AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SPONSORSHIP
LAUNCHPAD AT MOREHOUSE FELLOWS ACROSS 4 COHORTS
60+
100+
100+
100,000+
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
Thomas Bittings Jr. ‘25
$600,000 Funding Round
Thomas Bittings Jr., a current Morehouse College junior and founder of Goldilocks Smart Solutions was inspired by his great-grandmother who had difficulty operating bathroom taps. Thomas aims to enhance independence for seniors and people with disabilities, initially through a voice-activated shower system. Starting as a high school inventor, Thomas refined his skills through MIEC where Professor James Young and other mentors helped him transition from a technical inventor to a business-minded entrepreneur.
Yusuf Lewis ‘21 75+ Properties Managed
2021 graduate Yusuf Lewis, founder of Refresh Co., began his entrepreneurial journey by reselling collectible sneakers at Morehouse College. Participating in MIEC led to the creation of his cleaning service business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing a gap in the short-term rental market, Yusuf developed the Refresh Co. Turnover System (RTS), an automation tool that streamlines scheduling and reduces manual coordination for hosts. Yusuf credits MIEC with his development of hands-on mentorship and real-world skills.
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
Quincy Box ‘25 48X Faster Gameplay
MIEC provided initial funding to help Quincy refine his pro gaming controller prototype and incorporate a scroll wheel to offer up to 48X faster gameplay speed. Through Launchpad, Quincy also gained pitching skills, including trips to conferences in California and opportunities to network with other tech entrepreneurs. His advice: “Just show up… every time I’ve shown up to an event... I always met somebody that I never would have met in the room.”
Scooter Taylor ‘15
500 Virtual & Hybrid Events
Scooter Taylor, an entrepreneur and Morehouse alumnus played a pivotal role in shaping MIEC’s culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. During his college years, he launched initiatives like “Water Wars” for charity and a fashion-tech startup, leading to a Y Combinator experience. Later, he co-founded an agency that produced over 500 virtual and hybrid events, supporting Morehouse’s community-building through virtual galas and summits. His journey highlights MIEC’s expanding support for entrepreneurial students and alumni.
2025 AND BEYOND: CHARTING THE FUTURE OF MIEC AS THE MOREHOUSE INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER ENTERS ITS THIRD DECADE, MIEC LOOKS TO EXPAND ITS IMPACT, MEETING NEW CHALLENGES AND DRIVING CONTINUED GROWTH FOR THE BUSINESSES IT SERVES. MIEC HAS OUTLINED SEVERAL KEY GOALS AND INITIATIVES THAT WILL GUIDE ITS EFFORTS IN 2025 AND BEYOND.
GATHERING OF ECOSYSTEM PARTNERS
KEY GOALS 1
EXPANDING NATIONAL AND GLOBAL AWARENESS
One of MIEC’s primary objectives for the future is to expand its national and global presence. By increasing awareness of its programs, MIEC aims to attract a more diverse cohort of entrepreneurs and businesses, including those from underserved regions and international markets. Plans include launching targeted marketing campaigns, hosting global conferences and forming strategic partnerships with international business incubators. This expansion will position MIEC as a leader in global innovation and entrepreneurship, further enhancing its reputation and reach.
2
MEETING AND EXCEEDING CONTRACT OBJECTIVES
MIEC is committed to continuing its success in the Mentor-Protégé program by assuring participants not only meet but exceed contract objectives. The center plans to leverage its deep expertise to secure even more significant government contracts for its protégés, with a focus on high-impact industries including defense, healthcare and green technology. MIEC will also seek to diversify its funding sources by exploring opportunities in private-sector partnerships and alternative government programs, ensuring sustained financial stability and growth.
3
ENHANCING SUPPORT FOR HIGH-GROWTH INDUSTRIES
As part of its forward-looking strategy, MIEC will prioritize support for high-growth industries, including technology, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. This initiative includes developing specialized training programs, securing new mentors with expertise in these sectors and providing targeted resources to help businesses scale rapidly. By focusing on industries with high growth potential, MIEC aims to foster the next generation of industry leaders and innovators.
4
STRENGTHENING THE ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM
MIEC plans to play a pivotal role in strengthening both the local and broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. This involves creating more robust networks among alumni, partners and stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing. Additionally, MIEC will increase its efforts to provide access to capital through partnerships with venture capital firms, angel investors and financial institutions. By enhancing the ecosystem, MIEC ensures that its alumni and protégés have the resources and support needed to thrive long after they leave the program.
5
MEASURING IMPACT AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
To ensure that its initiatives are effective, MIEC will continue to implement more rigorous tracking and reporting mechanisms to measure the ongoing impact of its programs. This data-driven approach will allow MIEC to continuously refine its offerings, ensuring they remain relevant, impactful and deliver consistent replicable ROI. The road ahead also plans for more regular assessments and feedback loops to identify areas for improvement and innovation, keeping MIEC at the forefront of entrepreneurship support.
MIEC TEAM
THE SUCCESS AND GROWTH OF THE MOREHOUSE INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE DEDICATION AND EXPERTISE OF ITS LEADERSHIP TEAM AND KEY CONTRIBUTORS.
EACH LEADER BRINGS A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE, PASSION AND COMMITMENT TO THE MISSION OF FOSTERING ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION. HERE’S A CLOSER LOOK AT THE PROFILES OF SOME OF THE KEY FIGURES BEHIND MIEC’S ACHIEVEMENTS.
LUMINARIES AND SUPPORTERS AT STUDENT CELEBRATION
MIEC TEAM
Dr. Tiffany Bussey Executive Director
Dr. Bussey is the visionary Executive Director of MIEC. With an exceptional academic and business background and a passion for economic empowerment, Dr. Bussey established MIEC to create a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship at Morehouse College. Under her leadership, MIEC has grown from a small initiative into a nationally recognized center that has impacted thousands of entrepreneurs and small businesses. Dr. Bussey’s strategic vision and relentless drive have been key to MIEC’s success, guiding the center through periods of growth, evolution, challenges and expansion. Her work continues to inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators.
Danita Harris Director, Small Business Programs
Ms. Harris serves as the Director of Small Business Programs at MIEC, overseeing the day-to-day functions that keep the center running smoothly. With a background in operations and organizational management, Danita ensures that MIEC’s programs are executed efficiently and effectively. Her responsibilities include managing logistics, coordinating events and ensuring that all aspects of MIEC’s operations align with its strategic goals. Danita’s attention to detail and commitment to operational excellence have been key in maintaining the high standards of service for which MIEC has become known.
Bonita Seaborn Moore
Director of Operations
Ms. Moore has played a pivotal role in the operational success of MIEC as Director of Operations. With a successful track record in project management and small business development, Bonita has been instrumental in designing and implementing the center’s key programs, including the Mentor-Protégé initiative. Her expertise in managing complex projects and her deep understanding of government contracting have been crucial in helping small businesses navigate the challenges of securing government contracts. Bonita’s hands-on approach and commitment to the success of MIEC’s protégés have earned her recognition as a trusted advisor within the organization.
Kylan Kester ‘19 Director, Student Initiatives
As a Director for Student Initiatives, Mr. Kester is at the forefront of MIEC’s efforts to cultivate and grow the entrepreneurial ecosystem. As the founding director of the Launchpad program established in 2021, Kylan has been instrumental in designing and implementing initiatives that empower students to transform their ideas into thriving ventures. Kylan’s background in business development and strategic partnerships has enabled him to connect MIEC’s participants with valuable resources and opportunities. His role involves identifying potential mentors, securing partnerships with key industry players and helping businesses develop strategies for growth.
Michael Cortez ‘22 Research and Data Analyst
Michael Cortez is the Research and Data Analyst at MIEC. In this role, he leads data-driven research initiatives to measure the impact of MIEC programs and support strategic decision-making. Michael specializes in gathering, analyzing and interpreting data to identify trends and opportunities that enhance entrepreneurial success for diverse business owners. His expertise ensures MIEC’s initiatives are grounded in actionable insights and evidence-based solutions.
MIEC CONSTRUCTION COHORT ONSITE AT ATLANTA’S HARTSFIELDJACKSON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
JOIN US IN BUILDING THE FUTURE OF MIEC AS WE EXPAND ITS NATIONAL AND GLOBAL AWARENESS.
The Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC) has spent the last 20 years transforming dreams into reality, empowering entrepreneurs and driving tangible economic growth. But our journey is far from over. As we look toward the future, your support is more crucial than ever.
By partnering with us, you can play a vital role in fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders. Whether through financial contributions, mentorship or strategic partnerships, your involvement will directly impact small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them achieve their goals and contribute to their communities.
Join us in our mission to create lasting change. Together, we can continue to build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that opens doors for those who need it most. Support MIEC today and be a part of something truly transformative in furnishing opportunities to talented entrepreneurs that might otherwise go undiscovered or overlooked.
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. SUPPORT MIEC TODAY TO EMPOWER THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW.
Donate
Your financial contributions help us provide critical resources and training to entrepreneurs.
Mentor
Share your expertise and guide emerging entrepreneurs on their journey to success.
Partner
Collaborate with us to create new opportunities for growth and innovation.
