official program book the future is now august 15-17 | renasant convention center memphis, tn
        
    See what’s next How can you gain a strategic advantage? Through data-driven insights, cutting-edge digital tools and industry-leading security designed to drive your business. What would you like the power to do?® Start the conversation business.bofa.com “Bank of America” and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names used by the Global Banking and Global Markets divisions of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, other commercial banking activities, and trading in certain financial instruments are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Trading in securities and financial instruments, and strategic advisory, and other investment banking activities, are performed globally by investment banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“Investment Banking Affiliates”), including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc. and Merrill Lynch Professional Clearing Corp., both of which are registered broker-dealers and Members of SIPC , and, in other jurisdictions, by locally registered entities. BofA Securities, Inc. and Merrill Lynch Professional Clearing Corp. are registered as futures commission merchants with the CFTC and are members of the NFA. Investment products offered by Investment Banking Affiliates: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value ©2023 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. GBGM-571-AD 5405733
        
    
    
    Driving Forward, Together. We are pleased to partner with The MMBC Continuum and support its work empowering Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. ford.com/blueovalcity @blueovalcity Scan the QR code to register on the Supplier Registration Portal. To learn more about our Ford Supplier Diversity & Inclusion program, visit www.fordsupplierdiversity.com
        Welcome to the 2023 Economic Development Forum (EDF) hosted by The MMBC Continuum and the Tennessee MBDA Business Center. The theme for this year’s forum, “The Future is Now,” represents the transformative journey we are embarking upon.
          Our community has entered into a unique time, filled with opportunities for growth, innovation, and collaboration. The Economic Development Forum serves as a platform that brings together business owners, corporations, ecosystem partners, community leaders, and visionaries to collectively reshape the economic landscape of Memphis, West TN, and the Mid-South region. There is an unprecedented amount of capital investment that is set to impact the very fabric of our community. This investment is a testament to the faith that stakeholders from around the nation have in our potential. It’s a vote of confidence in our ability to create a thriving environment that fosters the spirit of innovation, job creation, and sustainable future development.
          We must recognize that “The Future is Now” is not just a slogan, but a call to action. It compels us to engage, to learn, and to harness the opportunities that lie before us. It is a reminder that our collective efforts today will define the trajectory of our community for generations to come. As we dive into discussions, workshops, and networking sessions, I encourage you to keep this mantra at the forefront of your mind.
          The EDF is not just another conference, so I hope that you will be focused and actively engaged in each session, be intentional about connecting with fellow attendees, and be open to share your insights and perspectives. Our collective wisdom will reshape the roadmap for the future through the opportunities and investments slated for our region. Together, we can build a future that is vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous.
          We thank our sponsors and partners who have helped make this forum a reality. Seize this moment to learn, to connect, and to envision the extraordinary possibilities that are taking shape now. The future is indeed now, and it’s incumbent upon all of us to take advantage of this progressive moment in time.
          
    We hope that you enjoy the EDF!
          
    President and CEO, The MMBC Continuum Operator, Tennessee MBDA Business Center
          
          
    4
        Letter from the
        CEO
        On behalf of the Board of Directors, It is my honor to extend a warm welcome to the 2023 Economic Development Forum, the intersection of ideation, innovation, and collaboration. As the Chairman of the Board of Directors at MMBC Continuum, I am proud to be part of an organization that serves as a catalyst as we collectively embark upon this journey of economic expansion.
          The EDF provides an opportunity to focus on progress. The theme “The Future is Now” holds profound significance and serves as a reminder that the steps we take today lay the foundation for the tomorrow we envision. We hope that throughout the conference you will engage with your peers, industry thought leaders, and corporate executives as concepts and ideas are presented that will redefine the future of our region. The EDF is the best opportunity to forge new connections with fellow business leaders and ecosystem partners, to foster new levels of collaborations that will drive the unlimited opportunities for growth.
          Take advantage of this opportunity to get new insights into the transform of the economic landscape of Memphis, West TN, and the Mid-South. Together, we have the power to redefine what’s possible and establish a new foundation that will positively impact generations to come. I urge you to take advantage of this moment, to be part of the change that is underway. As we gather for this year’s EDF, let’s not just discuss ideas and concepts, but ignite a movement toward progress.
          
    Sincerely,
          Keith Norman Chairman of the Board The MMBC Continuum
          
          
    5
        Letter from the Chairman
        
    AutoZone.com® ©2016 AutoZone. Inc. All Rights Reserved.
        
    Get Better. baptistonline.org Working together for stronger, healthier communities At Baptist, our mission to care for and strengthen our communities has been made easier because of community partners like the Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum and their dedication to making our corner of the world a better place for all. Congratulations to the MMBC on 16 years of successful Economic Development Forum events. Proud sponsor of the 2023 MMBC Continuum Economic Development Forum
        
    8 Letter from MMBC Continuum CEO 4 Letter from the MMBC Continuum Board Chairman 6 EDF Corporate Sponsors / M/WBE Sponsors / Media Sponsors 10 EDF Reception & Contintental Breakfast Sponsors 11 2023 EDF Schedule ....................................................................... 12 Power Breakfast 17 Silent Workshop – My Business, My Brand 18 Silent Workshop – The Future Ready Workforce ..................... 19 Luncheon with Speaker 20 Silent Workshop – Traits of the High Performing Leader .......... 21 Silent Workshop – The Network Resources for Startups 23 Plenary Session 24 Seminar – A Deep Dive into Corporate DEI ............................. 25 Seminar – Transportation & Infrastructure 26 Luncheon with Speaker 28 Seminar – Opportunity - Is it Unethical or Illegal? 29 Seminar – M/WBE Access to Cash 30 EDF MBE Silver Sponsors 32 Exhibitor Map 52 Exhibitor Listing 54 Special Thanks 84 TABLE OF CONTENTS
        
    Our strength comes from many different places. At FedEx, we strive to support our customers and their diverse communities We highly value relationships with minority- and womenowned businesses It’s one of the many ways we deliver better service to everyone ©2021 FedEx All rights reserved
        SPECIAL THANKS TO THE 2023 SPONSORS
          
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    Thank you to our 2023 EDF sponsors for your ongoing commitment to improving the economy through the inclusion of diverse suppliers.
          
    
    
    10
        
              
              
            
            Special Thanks to the 2023 EDF
          
              
              
            
            OPENING RECEPTION SPONSORS and CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST SPONSORS
          M/WBE Bronze Sponsors
          A-1 Electrical Contractors, Inc.
          Ardmore Roderick
          Artizan Constructors. LLC
          Bruce Law, PLLC
          Campbell & Ford Construction, Inc.
          Castle Black Construction
          Dortch Construction
          Fresh Start Facility Services, Inc.
          Gipson Mechanical Contractors, Inc.
          Industrial Sales
          LATROBE
          Manufacturers Industrial Group
          Mid-South Drug Testing, Inc.
          New Visions Technical Solutions
          Oteka Technologies
          
    Pete Mitchell & Associates Insurance
          Precise Contractors
          Self +Tucker Architects
          SOL Engineering Services, LLC
          Stragistics Technology, Inc.
          Taylormade Enterprise, LLC
          The Carter Malone Group, LLC
          Veasley’s Paving Services, Inc.
          W & T Contracting Corporation
          WABTS Financial & Tax Advisors
          Thomas Consultants, Inc.
          11
        
              
              
            
            FORUM
          SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
          DAY 1 | TUESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2023
          8:00 am – 3:00 pm
          5:30 am – 7:30 pm
          Exhibitor Move-In / Registration Renasant Convention Center – Exhibit Hall
          EDF Opening Business Reception | River Front Lobby
          DAY 2 | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2023
          7:30 am – 9:00 am
          7:30 am – 9:00 am
          Registration | Main Foyer (Ballroom Level)
          Power Breakfast | Ballroom A Keynote Speaker
          Candace Steele Flippin, Communications Executive, Weatherhead School of Management Case Western Reserve University
          9:15 am – 9:20 am
          10:30 am – 11:30 am
          Ribbon Cutting Ceremony | Exhibit Hall Entrance
          SILENT WORKSHOPS | Exhibit Hall Floor
          (Concurrent) My Business, My Brand: Branding Crash Course for Small Business Owners | Bank of America Stage
          
    Presented by:
          Deidre Malone, President and CEO
          The Carter Malone Group
          The Future Ready Workforce
          Ford BlueOval City Stage
          This region of the state is experiencing a historic transformation in the diversity of labor needs. With the Ford Blue Oval City investment in our community, there is an immediate need for construction labor and a short, near-term need for skilled labor for the advanced manufacturing industry along with labor to support our existing businesses and industries. During this workshop, presenters will share workforce needs, employment trends, training resources, and how educational institutions are training the workforce for the future.
          Facilitator:
          Khalif Johnson, Turner Construction Company
          Panelists: Ann Thompson, BlueOval Operations, Ford Motor Company
          Amber Covington, Director, Memphis Chamber of Commerce
          Zachary Casutt, Chapter Executive, National Electrical Contractors Association
          Philip Dotson, Director, Memphis-Shelby County Schools-Division of College, Career & Technical Education
          Dr. Carol Ash, Southwest Tennessee Community College
          Amy Shead, Southwest Tennessee Community College
          12
        2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
        11:45 am – 1:00 pm
          SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
          LUNCH: Networking Grab & Go Boxed Lunch / Other Concessions Available | Center Stage
          Luncheon Speaker: Donald Cravins, Jr., Under Secretary Minority Business Development Agency, U. S. Department of Commerce
          1:30 pm – 2:30 am
          (Concurrent)
          SILENT WORKSHOPS | Exhibit Hall Floor
          Traits of the High Performing Leader – TED Talk Style | Bank of America Stage
          This workshop is for aspiring female professionals, female business owners, and men who lead and direct females. Everyone is invited to learn the traits of high performing leaders so they can be sponsored, mentored and elevated within organizations for the benefit of the individual and their business or organization.
          Presented by:
          Trevia Chatman
          Bank of America, Memphis
          THE NETWORK: RESOURCES FOR STARTUPS AND SMALL BUSINESSES | Ford BlueOval City Stage
          
    Memphis’ success is due, in part, to its strong small business ecosystem. This workshop is designed to provide small businesses across industry sectors an overview of the vast and varied resources available to them from “The Network.”
          Facilitator:
          Ernest Strickland, Black Business Association
          Panelists
          La’Breda Morrow, TN Small Business Development Center
          Rhonda Brown, Medical District Collaborative Kiesha Kelsey, Epicenter
          Vonesha Mitchell, Women’s Business Center South (WBEC South)
          Stephanie Alexander-Parker, Memphis Area Minority Contractors Association
          2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
          Federal & Corporate Connection Zone – Exhibit Hall Behind Center Stage | Exhibit Hall Behind Center Stage
          Growth Strategy: Government Projects and Purchases
          The Corporate Connect gives Minority and Womenowned businesses the opportunity to meet with corporate discussion makers in a speed-dating format. Companies will have the opportunity to introduce their products and services and learn how to access future contract opportunities.
          3:45 pm
          Prizes and Awards Announced – Best Corporate and M/WBE Booth | Exhibit Hall - Center Stage
          13 2023 ECONOMIC
        FORUM
        DEVELOPMENT
        2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
          DAY 3 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023
          7:00 am – 4:00 pm
          7:30 am – 8:30 am
          8:45 am – 10:00 am
          Registration | Renasant Convention Center – Exhibit Hall
          Continental Breakfast | Ballroom Level Lobby
          Plenary Session | Ballroom B
          Facilitator:
          Travis M. Spencer, Ford Motor Company
          Panelists:
          Kel Kearns, Ford BlueOval City
          Ermal Faulkner, Ford Motor Company
          Tracy Church, Ford Motor Company
          Chris Morgan, Walbridge
          10:30 am – 11:30 am
          (Concurrent)
          SEMINARS
          Dismantling Inequities: A Deep Dive into Corporate DEI | Ballroom C
          
    During the seminar, panelists will provide insight on enterprise-wide DEI strategies created in a corporate culture that fosters respect and shared values among the employees, stakeholders, and customers. Our hope is that attendees will learn how the implementation of enterprise-wide DEI strategies changes the culture within organizations and increases societal impact in the communities they work and serve.
          Facilitator:
          Travis Spencer, Head of Supplier Diversity and Warranty Recovery, Ford Motor Company
          Panelists:
          Amy Shelton Little, HR Director, Talent Management & Chief Diversity Officer, International Paper
          Monica Davy, SVP Chief Culture, Diversity, and Impact Officer
          Lorenzol Ellis, DEI Implementation Director, ArchKey Natasha Berry, Smith & Nephew
          Transportation and Infrastructure: By Air, By Road, By Rail, or By River | Ballroom D
          The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) aka Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) signed into law in 2021 authorized $1.2 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending. The funding, expansive in its reach, is an opportunity to rebuild America’s ports, airports, rail and roads; expand access to clean drinking water; ensure that every American has access to highspeed internet; and to tackle the climate crisis and advance environmental justice. For decades Memphis, has been marketed as and has created a strong economy due its geographic location and specifically the intersection of major highways, the river, rail, and its international airport. During the seminar, panelists will discuss airport, river, roads, and rail projects
          14
        11:45 am – 1:00 pm
          underway and the opportunities these projects will provide to businesses, communities, and individuals.
          Facilitator:
          Joe Jackson, USDOT Mid-South Atlantic Small Business Transportation Resource Center
          Michael Fulton, Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority
          Priscilla G. Sweeney, Army Corps of Engineers
          Bacarra Sanderson Mauldin, Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA)
          Victor C. Tyler, P.E., Tyler Construction Engineers, P.C.
          LUNCHEON | Ballroom A
          Keynote Speaker
          Bryan Wood, Data Science Executive, Bank of America
          1:15 pm – 2:30 pm
          An Opportunity of a Lifetime: Is it Unethical or Illegal? | Ballroom
          
    C
          The recently announced near $25 billion of unprecedented capital investment in West Tennessee includes a substantial amount of public investment. Federal, state and local laws, ordinances, and policies may include combinations of minority-owned, womenowned and disadvantaged business enterprise (M/ WBE/DBE) spend goals. To secure contract awards, general contractors and M/WBE/DBEs may be tempted to participate in certain contracting practices they should avoid. During the fireside chat, panelists will provide insight on how unethical contracting practices are in fact illegal activities that put their businesses and freedom at risk. Outcome: attendees will learn and identify the risks of unethical practices and seek professional guidance before participating in an opportunity that sounds too good to be true.
          Facilitator:
          T. Kevin Bruce, Esq., Bruce Law. PLLC
          Panelists:
          Carroll L. Andre, III, Asst. U.S. Attorney, Principal Deputy Criminal Chief, U.S. Department of Justice David Palmer, Supervisory Special Agent, White Collar Squad, FBI, Memphis Field Office, Tony Arvin, Assistant U. S. Attorney
          1:15 pm – 2:15 pm
          M/WBE Access to Cash Seminar | Ballroom B Cash Continuum Network Small businesses work tremendously hard to have a presence in their community and have a rich history of inextinguishable passion. However, access to capital continues to be a barrier for small business growth as the racial wealth gap continues to widen. Small businesses resiliently struggle to secure the capital and resources they need to flourish because they have been systematically precluded from receiving traditional financing. During this two-part seminar, panelists will first discuss tailored small business loan programs, eligibility requirements,
          15
        2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM SCHEDULE
        OF EVENTS
        2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
          
    DAY 3 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 17, 2023 (Cont’d)
          financial flags and banking risks, relationship building, and best practices to receive the financing they need.
          Facilitator:
          Orlandus Kirby, Bank of America
          Panelists:
          William Carter, Regions
          Steve Swain, Pinnacle
          Jermaine Fletcher, First Horizon
          Jamel Dagher, Paragon Bank
          Cal Overman, Simmons Bank
          Craig Cline, Renasant Bank
          Derrick Martin, Cadence Bank
          Ron Brooks, River City Capital
          Sean Norris, Truist
          Glenda Johnson, Communities Unlimited
          2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
          Capital Connect | Ballroom B
          Bankers will be available for one-on-one meetings to share requirements and solutions necessary to address small business capital needs.
          3:45 pm
          CLOSING
          6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
          Robert
          Food, Music, Awards & Silent Auction
          16
        | Exhibit Hall - Center Stage Closing Remarks Prizes and Awards Announced
          R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala Ballroom A
          POWER BREAKFAST
          Wednesday, August 16, 2023
          7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
          Ballroom A
          PROGRAM
          
    Opening Remarks & Introduction of MC
          Jozelle Luster Booker, President & CEO The MMBC Continuum
          Introductions Joy Redmond, News Anchor Action News 5
          Invocation
          Greetings
          Bishop Ed Stephens, Senior Pastor Golden Gate Cathedral
          The Honorable Jim Strickland Mayor, City of Memphis
          Sponsor Comments Karen Mitchell, President iHeart Media Memphis
          Trevia Chatman, President Bank of America Memphis
          
    Ermal Faulkner, Director Ford BlueOval City & EV Sales
          Speaker Introduction Jozelle Booker
          Keynote Speaker ..................... Candace Steele Flippin, Fellow Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University
          Closing Remarks Jozelle Luster Booker
          Final Remarks Keith Norman, Vice President Government Relations Baptist Memorial Health Care Chairman, MMBC Continuum Board of Directors
          17 2023 ECONOMIC
        DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        KEYNOTE SPEAKER CANDACE STEELE FLIPPIN
          
              
              
            
            SILENT WORKSHOP (Concurrent)
          
    Wednesday, August 16, 2023
          10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
          Bank of America Stage
          My Business, My Brand: Branding Crash Course for Small Business Owners
          This workshop will communicate the value and importance for small businesses to build a strong brand. The presentation will cover brand strategies and checklists for small business owners to increase visibility and market presence to reach a broader audience. This session will integrate technology and smart devices to help create a brand strategy and implementation plan.
          PROGRAM
          Welcome & Introduction
          Jan Cable
          Manager, Supplier Diversity & Development
          Tennessee Valley Authority
          Presentation
          Deidre Malone
          CEO
          The Carter Malone Group
          Closing Remarks Jan Cable
          BY DEIDRE MALONE President & CEO
          The Carter Malone Group
          
    18 2023 ECONOMIC
        DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        PRESENTED
          Wednesday, August 16, 2023
          10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
          
    Ford BlueOval City Stage
          The Future Ready Workforce
          
    
    
    
    
    This one-hour workshop on the Exhibit Hall floor is a must attend workshop to learn about the employment opportunities at BlueOval City and how community stakeholders are working to create a pipeline for current and future opportunities at BlueOval City, in the construction industry, in robotics and advanced manufacturing, college and technical careers. This workshop is for everyone.
          FACILITATOR:
          PANELISTS:
          
    19
        2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM SILENT
        (Concurrent)
        WORKSHOP
        KHALIF JOHNSON, Turner Construction Company
          ZACHARY CASUTT Chapter Executive National Electrical Contractors Association
          PHILIP DOTSON Partnership Director Memphis Shelby County Schools Division of College, Career & Technical Education
          AMBER COVINGTON Director Greater Memphis Chamber
          DR. CAROL ASH VP of Academic Affairs Southwest Tennessee Community College
          AMY SHEAD AVP Workforce Development Southwest Tennessee Community College
          ANN THOMPSON Workforce Development Manager Ford Motor Company
          
              
              
            
            2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
          LUNCHEON WITH SPEAKER
          Wednesday, August 16, 2023
          11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
          Exhibit Hall Center Stage
          LUNCH: Networking Grab & Go Boxed Lunch
          *Other Concessions Available
          PROGRAM
          
    Welcome & Introductions Jozelle Booker
          President & CEO
          MMBC Continuum
          Brief Remarks
          Willie Henry
          Deputy District Director, U.S. Congressional District 9
          Guest Speaker
          Donald Cravins, Jr.,
          Under Secretary, Minority Business Development Agency U.S. Department of Commerce
          Closing Remarks Jozelle Booker
          
    20
        DONALD CRAVINS, JR.
          Under Secretary
          Minority Business Development Agency, US Dept of Commerce
          Wednesday, August 16, 2023
          1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Bank of America Stage
          Traits of the High Performing Leader – TED Talk Style
          
    This workshop is for aspiring female professionals, female business owners, and men who lead and direct females. Everyone is invited to learn the traits of high performing leaders so they can be sponsored, mentored and elevated within organizations for the benefit of the individual and their business or organization.
          PROGRAM
          Welcome & Speaker Introduction
          Joyce Douglas MWSBE Manager
          
          Division of Equity and Diversity
          Memphis-Shelby County Schools
          Speaker Trevia Chatman President
          
    Bank of America Memphis
          Closing Remarks Joyce Douglas
          PRESENTED BY TREVIA CHATMAN
          President Bank of
          
          America Memphis
          21 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        SILENT WORKSHOP (Concurrent)
        
    First Horizon is proud to support the work of the Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum. Because their members know that business success takes more than a will to make it happen. It takes connection – to new ideas, to unexpected opportunities and to the countless ways we’re all better for being part of this community. ©2022 First Horizon Bank. Member FDIC. Let’s find a way. firsthorizon.com Personal Business Private Banking Where there’s a connection, there’s a way.
        Wednesday, August 16, 2023
          1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
          Ford BlueOval City Stage
          THE NETWORK: Resources for Startups and Small Businesses
          
    Memphis’ success is due, in part, to its strong small business ecosystem. This workshop is designed to provide small businesses across industry sectors an overview of the vast and varied resources available to them from “The Network.”
          
    Introduction: Jasmine Davis, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare
          
    
    
    
    PANELISTS
          
    23 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        SILENT WORKSHOP (Concurrent)
        KIESHA KELSEY Epicenter
          FACILITATOR
          ERNEST STRICKLAND Black Business Association
          RHONDA BROWN Memphis Medical District Collaborative
          LA’BREDA MORROW TN NMSDC
          VONESHA MITCHELL Women’s Business Center South (WBEC South)
          STEPHANIE ALEXANDER-PARKER Memphis Area Minority Contractors Association
          
              
              
            
            2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
          
    
    
    PLENARY SESSION
          Thursday, August 17, 2023
          8:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
          Ballroom B
          FACILITATOR
          
    
    TRAVIS
          
    PANELISTS
          24
        ERMAL M. FAULKNER Director, BlueOval City & EV Sites Ford Motor Company
          TRACY CHURCH Plant Manager Tennessee Battery BOSK JV Manufacturing Ford Motor Company
          KEL KEARNS Plant Manager TEVC Blue Oval City Ford Motor Company
          CHRIS MORGAN Vice President, Operations Walbridge
          SPENCER Senior Purchasing Manager for Supplier Diversity & Inclusion Ford Motor Company
          Thursday, August 17, 2023
          
    10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
          Ballroom C
          Dismantling Inequities: A Deep Dive into Corporate DEI
          
    
    
    
    During the seminar, panelists will provide insight on enterprise-wide DEI strategies created in a corporate culture that fosters respect and shared values among the employees, stakeholders, and customers. Our hope is that attendees will learn how the implementation of enterprise-wide DEI strategies changes the culture within organizations and increases societal impact in the communities they work and serve.
          
    
              
              
            
            PANELISTS
          25
        2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        SEMINAR (Concurrent)
        FACILITATOR
          TRAVIS SPENCER Head of Supplier diversity and Warranty Recovery Ford Motor Company
          LORENZOL ELLIS DEI Implementation Director ArchKey Solutions
          MONICA DAVY SVP Chief Culture, Diversity, and Impact Officer Vizient
          AMY SHELTON LITTLE HR Director, Talent Management and Chief Diversity Officer International Paper
          NATASHA BERRY Vice President, Global Inclusive Culture, Diversity & Equity Smith and Nephew
          SEMINAR (Concurrent)
          
    Thursday, August 17, 2023
          10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
          
    
    
    
    Ballroom D
          Transportation and Infrastructure: By Air, By Road, By Rail, or By River
          The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) aka Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) signed into law in 2021 authorized $1.2 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending. The funding, expansive in its reach, is an opportunity to rebuild America’s ports, airports, rail and roads; expand access to clean drinking water; ensure that every American has access to high-speed internet; and to tackle the climate crisis and advance environmental justice. For decades Memphis, has been marketed as and has created a strong economy due its geographic location and specifically the intersection of major highways, the river, rail, and its international airport. During the seminar, panelists will discuss airport, river, roads, and rail projects underway and the opportunities these projects will provide to businesses, communities, and individuals.
          
    PANELISTS
          26 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        FACILITATOR
          JOE JACKSON Executive Director
          USDOT Mid-South Atlantic Small Business Transportation Resource Center
          MICHAL FULTON Director of Government Affairs and Business Diversity Development Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA)
          BACARRA SANDERSON MAULDIN Deputy CEO Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA)
          PRISCILLA G. SWEENEY Chief of ContractingMemphis District Army Corps of Engineers
          VICTOR C. TYLER Founder, President & Principal Engineer Tyler Construction Engineers, P.C.
          
    Committed to cultivating diverse opportunities with suppliers that make a value-added difference. To register in our portal go to internationalpaper.cvmsolutions.com Quality Products & Services for Our Customers Development of DiverseOwned Businesses Investing in Communities Where We Live & Work
        
              
              
            
            2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
          LUNCHEON WITH SPEAKER
          Thursday, August 17, 2023
          11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
          Ballroom A
          PROGRAM
          Opening Remarks & Introduction of MC
          Introductions
          Invocation
          Brief Remarks
          Introduction of Keynote Speaker
          Keynote Speaker
          Closing Remarks
          Jozelle Luster Booker, President & CEO The MMBC Continuum
          Kym Clark, News Anchor Action News 5
          Rev. Dr. Earle Fisher, Senior Pastor Abyssinian Baptist Church
          Justin Troy, Director of Sourcing
          
    FedEx
          Travia Chatman, President Bank of America Memphis
          Bryan Wood, Data Science Executive Bank of America
          Kym Clark
          Jozelle Luster Booker
          KEYNOTE SPEAKER
          BRYAN WOOD
          Data Science Executive Bank of America
          
    28
        Thursday, August 17, 2023
          1:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
          Ballroom C
          An Opportunity of a Lifetime: Is it Unethical or Illegal?
          
    The recently announced near $25 billion of unprecedented capital investment in West Tennessee includes a substantial amount of public investment. Federal, state and local laws, ordinances, and policies may include combinations of minority-owned, women-owned and disadvantaged business enterprise (M/WBE/DBE) spend goals. To secure contract awards, general contractors and M/WBE/DBEs may be tempted to participate in certain contracting practices they should avoid. During the fireside chat, panelists will provide insight on how unethical contracting practices are in fact illegal activities that put their businesses and freedom at risk. Outcome: attendees will learn and identify the risks of unethical practices and seek professional guidance before participating in an opportunity that sounds too good to be true.
          Introduction: Tamara Pate, Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division
          PANELISTS
          Assistant United States Attorney Principal Deputy Criminal Chief Western District of Tennessee US Department of Justice
          
          
    TONY
          
          Assistant US Attorney US Department of Justice
          
          DAVID PALMER Supervisory Special Agent White Collar Squad FBI Memphis Field Office
          
          29 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM SEMINAR
        FACILITATOR
          T. KEVIN BRUCE, ESQ. Bruce Law, PLLC
          CARROLL L. ANDRE, III
          ARVIN
          
              
              
            
            M/WBE SEMINAR
          Thursday, August 17, 2023
          1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
          Ballroom B
          M/WBE Access to Cash Seminar
          
    Cash Continuum Network Small businesses work tremendously hard to have a presence in their community and have a rich history of inextinguishable passion. However, access to capital continues to be a barrier for small business growth as the racial wealth gap continues to widen. Small businesses resiliently struggle to secure the capital and resources they need to flourish because they have been systematically precluded from receiving traditional financing. During this two-part seminar, panelists will first discuss tailored small business loan programs, eligibility requirements, financial flags and banking risks, relationship building, and best practices to receive the financing they need.
          Introduction: Marianne De Augiar, International Paper
          
    30 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        FACILITATOR
          ORLANDUS KIRBY Bank of America
          
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    31 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        M/WBE SEMINAR
        DERRICK MARTIN Cadence Bank
          JAMEL DAGHER Paragon Bank
          RON BROOKS River City Capital
          CRAIG CLINE Renasant Bank
          GLENDA JOHNSON Communities Unlimited
          STEVE SWAIN Pinnacle Financial Partners
          CAL OVERMAN Simmons Bank
          JERMAINE FLETCHER First Horizon
          WILL CARTER Regions
          SEAN NORRIS Truist
          PANELISTS
        Special Thanks to the 2023 EDF
          
    MBE SILVER SPONSORS
          
    
    32
        
    tva.com | facebook.com/TVA | @TVAnews | @TVA | linkedin.com/company/tva
        
    Publication: Southern Heritage Classic
          Size: 8.5"x11"
          Client: Regional One Health
          
    Job No: 230020E
          Title: 230020A Southern Heritage Classic Ad
          
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
              
              
            
            Pinnacle Loca�on�
          
    
    Pinnacle is located in 11 major markets in Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. For a full listing, visit www.pnfp.com
          FOR LENDING NEEDS ONLY, VISIT ONE OF OUR LOAN PRODUCTION OFFICES
          
    Cordova 894 N. Germantown Pkwy. Ste 4 Cordova, TN 38018 (901)624-9469 Fore�� �ill 9057 Poplar Ave. Germantown, TN 38138 (901)309-4990 Wolf River 1264 Germantown Road Germantown, TN 38138 (901)309-4940 Oa� Cour� 4445 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38117 (901)259-4960 Shady Grove 949 S. Shady Grove Road Ste 100 Memphis, TN 38120 (901)259-5620 Union Avenue 155 Rozelle St. Memphis, TN 38104 (901)259-2170
        TENNESSEE LOCATIONS
        WEST
        Ralei�h 2235 Whitten
        Memphis, TN 38133 (901) 309-4944 Whi�ehaven 4403 Elvis Presley Blvd. Memphis, TN 38116 (901) 259-5632 275 Cumberland Street * Memphis, TN 38112 901-522-8783 office * 901-452-1366 fax www.ACTIONJPS.com
        Road
        The Greater Memphis Chamber invites you to participate in Chamber Referral Day! This is a day to identify the businesses, companies, and organizations interested in supporting the work of the Chamber to grow our economy. Participate by referring potential members to the Chamber. Each referral is a contribution towards sustaining the work of building a greater Memphis for all.
          How to Participate
          We need our Chamber Champions to help us share what we’re doing and why it matters with other businesses, and to send us contact information for potential investors.
          
    Practical tips:
          • Identify a business you think should be supporting the Chamber’s work
          • Check if they are already a member by searching our member directory at MemphisChamber.com
          • Connect with them to ask if they would like to learn more about getting involved with Chamber
          • Send the decision-maker’s contact information to dsmith@memphischamber.com
          Who We Are
          Since its founding in 1838, the Greater Memphis Chamber has been the “voice for business” and a driving force behind the growth of the Greater Memphis economy. Today, the Chamber recruits and retains jobs and investment for Greater Memphis as the region’s lead economic development organization, develops the region’s workforce, and advocates for pro-growth policies.
          If your referral isn’t already in the active prospect pipeline, you’ll be notified and receive a point for the referral upon membership activation. The referring individual with the most closing points on November 1st will receive 2 round-trip flight accommodations to anywhere in the USA! Remember, all you need to do is make the referral and we’ll do the rest!
          
    All Cigna products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company and Connecticut General Life Insurance Company. The Cigna name, logo and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. 918269 06/19 © 2019 Cigna. 2022
        Economic Development Forum. We support
        
    
    Breath Alcohol Testing Urine * Saliva * Hair DNA Collections * On-Site Testing Individuals * Employment Federal (DOT) * Court Ordered * School 24-7 availability www.MidSouthDrugTesting.com 901.320.9295 One of these workers has a drug problem. How do you KNOW which ONE? Mid-South Drug Testing
        
    
    
    CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SERVICE! July 28, 1983 – July 28, 2023 “WHERE QUALITY IS STILL A SOURCE OF PRIDE” Thank You to The MMBC Continuum for dedicated service to the City of Memphis and surrounding areas 1
        
    
    Supporting diversity and growing local businesses in the community.
          
    
    
    keep rising. Small businesses are the cornerstone of our communities and they need support more than ever. Comcast Rise is our pledge to invest in thousands of small businesses over the next three years. Learn More & Apply Today at Comcastrise.com
        
    
    
    EDGE, the Economic Development Growth Engine, is a quasigovernmental agency that serves as the Chief Economic Development Office for Memphis/Shelby County.
          
    
    
    Dr Joann Massey VP Operations
          
          
    EDGE is committed to equitable economic development practices with over $96 2 million spent by our corporate PILOT (Payment-In-Lieu of Taxes) recipients with MWBE in 2021 and 90% of our incentives recipients are based in inner city communities We demonstrate daily our organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion
          
    What does EDGE do?
          Serve as the Thought Leader of Economic Development Strategies
          Provide Tax Incentives
          Coordinate Technical Assistance
          
    Administer Grants Manage Port of Memphis Represent Mayors and Elected Officials in all economic development activities
          What are EDGE's Goals?
          Family Sustainable Job Creation
          Neighborhood Revitalization
          Regional Collaboration
          Industrial Development
          Small Business Growth
          Revenue Generating Strategies
          For more information, contact us: 901-341-2100
          C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s M M B C C o n t i n u u m o n Y o u r 1 6 t h E D F
        www edgemem com
        
    
    
    
    
    
    Alandas Dobbins, President 3332 Winbrook Drive 901-334-7304 Security Cameras Low Voltage Data Cabling Access Control GPS
        
              
              
            
            DEVELOPMENT FORUM
          
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        130 131 132 133 134 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 307 500 508 501 507 502 151 150 149 148 506 503 135 PRE-FUNCTION 162 163 137 136 12'x32x4' STAGE MMBC 20'X20' 20'X20' 12'X20'X2' STAGE 407 400 406 401 405 402 404 403 307 306 305 304 505 504 164 B B DISPLAY B B
        2023 ECONOMIC
        EXHIBITOR MAP
        
    53 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM EXHIBITOR MAP 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 130 209 200 208 201 207 202 116 115 113 114 206 203 129 127 128 101 102 20'X20' 12'X20'X2' STAGE 307 300 306 301 305 302 304 303 205 204 100
        
    54 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM EXHIBITORS 100 – iHeart Media 101 – MLGW 102 – FedEX 103 – United Way of Mid-South 104 – MSC Airport Authority 105 – Shelby County Government 106 – Industrial Sales 107 – TaylorMADE Enterprise LLC 108 – Precise 109 – Stragistics Technology, INC. 110 – TopCAT 111 – Ewing Storage 112 – Southwest 113 – Southwest 114 – Southwest 115 – Action Janitorial Paper Safety 116 – Action Janitorial Paper Safety 117 – W & T 118 – Unistar Sparco 119 – Bruce Law 120 – Pete Mitchell & Associates, Inc. 121 – Ardmore Roderick 122 – Castle Black 123 – Latrobe 124 – SOL 125 – MIG 126 – New Vision 127 – Oteka Technologies 128 – Roof Connect 129 – Signs Matter 130 – My City My Ride 131 – My City My Ride 132 – G.W.E.R.C 133 – A Flavorful Living Brand LLC 134 – Mobile Drug Testing 135 – Bullard Transportation 136 – Equus
        
    55 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM EXHIBITORS 137 – Black Business Association 138 – Operation Hope 139 – TSBDC 140 – EDGE 141 – Downtown Memphis Commission 142 – Comcast 143 – Universal Commercial 144 – Women Business 145 – Pathway Lending 146 – Mid-South Drug Testing 147 – City of Memphis Housing 148 – BMA Transport 149 – YOUDLE 150 – Worldwide Business Group 151 – Worldwide Business Group 152 – Emotion Promotion 153 – Universal Scaffold & Equipment 154 – WABTS 157 – Thomas Consulting 158 – Fresh Start 159 – Seth + Tucker 160 – Dats Wats Popping 161 – Hick’s Convention 162 – MAMCA 163 – Dortch Construction 164 – International Paper 200 – Supply Chain NonProduction 201 – Supply Chain Production 202 – Ford at BlueOval City, TN Electric Vehicle Center 203 – BlueOval SK –Operations 204 – BlueOval SK – Human Resources 205 – Avancez 206 – ArchKey 207 – Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc. 208 – Magna 209 – Walbridge
        
    56 2023 ECONOMIC
        EXHIBITORS 300 – New York Life 301 – First Horizon 302 – Urban League 303 – MATA 304 – UT HSC 305 – Communities Unlimited 306 – Smith & Nephew 307 – Pinnacle Financial 400 – Baptist Memorial 401 – Truist 402 – TVA 403 – Auto Zone 404 – Flintco 405 – Grinder Taber Grinder 406 – Regional One Health 407 – Turner Construction 500 – Carter Malone 501 – Cigna 502 – Vitalant 503 – Chamber of Commerce 504 – Linkous 505 – VA 506 – GO DBE 507 – Army Corp of Engineer Nashville 508 – Army Corp of Memphis 509 – APEX
        DEVELOPMENT FORUM
        
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    People Who Make the Right Moves! Specializing in Corporate, Commercial & Residential Relocations Diversity has taken our airport to great heights. We believe in creating strong business partnerships with all segments of our community. Let us work together to make your business fly. DIVERSITY FLIES @ MEM OUR PARTNERS
        
    
    4216 Millbranch Road, Memphis, TN 38116 (901) 345-6176 www.petemitchellins.com “Since 1975”
        
    
    OUR MARKETS:
          
    INFRASTRUCTURE LEADERS. PROJECT PARTNERS. www.ArdmoreRoderick.com
        Transportation Aviation Rail & Transit Utilities Buildings & Facilities
          Ardmore Roderick provides planning and design, project and program management, owner’s representative, construction management and general contractor services.
          16th Economic Development Forum Qtr-Page Ad_2023.indd 1 8/15/2023 12:06:41 PM
        For over 50 years, we have provided maintenance, repair and operating supplies in the Mid-South. We are the home of Schneider Electric (Square D), Philips Lighting and many others. We believe in exceptional service and competitive pricing.
          Please call us at 901-380-5460 or come by and see us at 7520 Bartlett Corporate Dr, Bartlett, TN 38133
          
    
    
    Providing the Following Services: General Construction Construction Management Renovations Projects Concrete Work Road Work Demolition Beautification Projects New Construction Martin Carodine – CEO 1123 S. Third St. 901-774-8010 ph Memphis, TN 38106 901-774-8031 fax www.2precise.com A Hubzone, DBE, SDB Certified Business
        
    
    
    
    
    
    
    Innovative Labeling & Packaging Solutions Worldwide Promise Quality Assurance Personalized Service Supply Chain Solutions Innovation Sales & Information worldwidebg.com award@worldwidebg.com sales@worldwidebg.com
        
              
              
            
            You. Unlimited.
          We are actively hiring CNC Machinists
          $22.50/hr + $3,000 sign-on bonus, benefits starting day 1
          • 6 months of machining experience and/or completion of a trade school machine shop program
          • Ability to read/interpret blueprints; measuring instruments and knowledge of tool identification Visit https://smith-nephew.com/careers to apply today
          
    
    
              
              
            
            Nelson & Nelson
          
    
    
    
    
    
              
              
            
            WABTS
          Financial & Tax Advisors
          2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
          
    SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2023 EDF COMMUNITY PARTNERS
          UT CIS APEX Accelerator
          Black Business Association
          City of Memphis HCD
          Downtown Memephis Commission
          Pathway Lending
          Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC)
          Unistar-Sparco Computers, Inc.
          Greater Memphis Chamber
          Youdle
          Memphis Area Minority Contractors Association (MAMCA)
          United Way of the Mid-South
          83
        Special thanks to our Board of Directors, corporate members, M/WBEs, foundation and other strategic partners, for your support of our efforts to engage in the journey to economic inclusion.
          
    84
        2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM SPECIAL THANKS save the dates & Plan to attend edf Next year fall 2024 Renasant Convention Center Downtown Memphis, TN
        
    
    THE MMBC CONTINUUM 200 JEFFERSON AVENUE SUITE 1000 MEMPHIS, TN 38103 PHONE: 901.525.6512 FAX: 901.525.5204 www.mmbc-memphis.org