2023 Prosperity Conference Program Book

VENTURE JOBS FOUNDATION PRESENTS

PROSPERITY CONFERENCE 2023 NOVEMBER 14, 2023 | ROCHESTER RIVERSIDE CONVENTION CENTER

IMPACT. INVEST. IMAGINE. venturejobs.org

260 E Main St. Suite 2701 Rochester, NY 14604 To learn more about our programs and small business resources, visit our website at:

venturejobs.org

Questions? Email us at:

info@venturejobs.org

WELCOME TO THE 2023 INCLUSIVE PROSPERITY CONFERENCE! As we gather for the 2023 Prosperity Conference, it's a moment to reflect on our journey since launching the Venture Jobs Foundation's impactful initiatives. From our beginnings Venture Jobs Foundation has focused upon on making impactful investments in Rochester’s small businesses to foster job growth. Venture Jobs Foundation is excited to share new programs and initiatives aimed at helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses. We believe growth can best be achieved by working within a collaborative ecosystem supporting small businesses and employment.

As we delve into today's agenda, enriched with insights from both local and national experts, we feel a blend of humility and urgency. Humility in the face of the incredible dedication of those striving for inclusive prosperity alongside us, and urgency driven by the needs of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and job seekers in our community, who are eager for new opportunities.

The theme of this year's conference, "Nurturing a Collaborative Ecosystem for Small Businesses," underlines our commitment to fostering inclusive prosperity. Previous conferences have left us with a wealth of knowledge and innovative strategies, and we intend to build on these foundations. The challenges are significant, but our collective efforts and shared wisdom are the keys to unlocking progress.

At VJF, our mission is ever-evolving. We are keen learners, always on the lookout for successful strategies from various communities that we can adapt to enrich our own. Our ear is always to the ground, listening to the needs of those we serve and continually refining and innovating our programs to tap into new opportunities for supporting a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Today, we invite you to immerse fully in the experience – engage in dialogues, pose questions, share your insights, and connect with fellow attendees. The path ahead may not be easy, but it's achievable, especially with the incredible talent present here. We are excited to see the collective power of our ideas and actions come to life.

Together, let's shape the future of Rochester’s inclusive prosperity. Each of us here is only a cog in the wheel of progress. But by working collaboratively, we can develop an eco-system in which small businesses, communities, families, and individuals prosper. I can't wait to see the progress this group of leaders will achieve together in the months and years ahead.

Let's make this a day of inspiring conversations, active engagement, and groundbreaking ideas.

Ken Marienau Ken Marienau Venture Jobs Foundation

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ABOUT

Venture Jobs Foundation supports and invests in

entrepreneurs and small businesses to foster job

creation and prosperity for everyone.

ABOUT US The Venture Jobs Foundation drives economic growth through business investments and technical support to foster new jobs and build economic strength and prosperity throughout Rochester. Continue reading to learn more about our projects and initiatives.

OUR PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES Capital Access for Entrepreneurs CAFE is a business workshop series designed for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in managing the businesses finances.

Join the CAFE program to: Learn financial planning concepts/techniques for business sustainability Gain insight into what lenders seek in loan applications Connect with a community of entrepreneurs and advisors Take a significant step toward greater financial stability Growth Lending Services

Venture Jobs Foundation provides loans at favorable rates to new and growing businesses in Rochester. If your business is located in the City of Rochester, has been active for at least one year, and one of your business goals is to create new jobs, you may qualify for one of our lending opportunities. Reach out today to get started!

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ABOUT

IMPACT. INVEST. IMAGINE. OUR PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES Rochester Fund For new and developing businesses in the City of Rochester with competitive rates, five year terms, and a maximum loan size of $50,000.

Community Development Fund Our Community Development Loans are available for existing and growing businesses in the Rochester area. These are offered at competitive rates, up to five year terms, and a maximum loan size of $250,000.

VJF Business Network The Venture Jobs Foundation Business Network is more than a platform; it's a mission to drive economic inclusion and prosperity through collaborative efforts. Your business success helps fuel our community’s growth, job creation, and inclusive prosperity. Become a part of the VJF Business Network and redefine your entrepreneurial journey. Together, let's build businesses that not only soar but also sow the seeds for a prosperous, interconnected community.

Learn more about Venture Jobs Foundation and our initiatives at venturejobs.org!

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AGENDA TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2023 8 AM - 5 PM

Event Agenda 8:00 AM

Registration & Breakfast

9:00 AM

Welcome Remarks Kenneth Marienau, Venture Jobs Foundation

Introductions & Keynote Address Keynote Introduction: Dr. Lomax Campbell, Third Eye Network, LLC Keynote Speaker: Dr. Dell Gines, Vice President of the International Economic Development Council

9:30 AM

Keynote Address Dr. Dell Gines, an expert in nurturing collaborative ecosystems for small businesses, aligns perfectly with the ongoing efforts in Rochester to create a supportive and inclusive business environment. His insights are vital for amplifying the impactful work of local entrepreneur support organizations and a beacon of equitable prosperity in the community.

In this session, Dr. Gines will share his knowledge and experience in aiding economic developers and policymakers nationwide in crafting strategies for equitable development. This is a unique opportunity to gain invaluable perspectives on how collective efforts can shape a more inclusive and prosperous economic landscape.

10:30 AM

Coffee Break with Entrepreneur Support Organizations Discover business resources and support.

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AGENDA TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2023 8 AM - 5 PM

Event Agenda 11:00 AM

ROOM A

Rochester's Growing Support Ecosystem for Businesses As the city's entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, this session delves into the diverse array of resources and networks available to local businesses. Hear from key figures who are at the forefront of this growth, learn about the innovative support structures in place, and understand how these are fueling business success across the region.

Moderator Barbara Glassman Panelists Agustin Rodriguez, Ibero-American Action League Rashid Muhammad, JustCause Mazi Bakari, Urban League of Rochester ROOM B

Manage Your Business Finances - Mini Courses Hear how local business and entrepreneur support organizations can help you grow, manage, and scale your business.

Consumer Credit Counseling Services, Andrea Colline Capital Access for Entrepreneurs, Kimberly Mitchell ROOM C

Business Resources & Networking Stop by our Resources & Networking room to find collateral, small business support resources, and more. Leave your business card to stay connected!

12:00 PM

Lunch

1:00 PM

Small Business Expo Connect with and meet local small business owners!

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AGENDA TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2023 8 AM - 5 PM

Event Agenda 1:45 PM

Leadership in Neighborhood Development Panel Explore effective collaboration strategies to address vital community needs. This session focuses on how diverse stakeholders – businesses, non-profits, government entities, and community members – can work together to create an environment where everyone prospers. Delve into discussions on building sustainable partnerships, leveraging resources for maximum impact, and fostering an inclusive community where every voice is heard and valued.

Moderator: Sherry Tshibangu Panelists LaShunda Leslie-Smith, Connected Communities Agustin Rodriguez, North Clinton Int’l Marketplace Charlotte Burch, Thurston Brook Merchants Association

2:45 PM

Announcement

3:00 PM

Investing in the Rochester Community: A Fireside Chat This discussion will revolve around the crucial aspects of identifying, connecting, and collaborating with local small businesses, foundations, and entrepreneur support organizations. Gain insights on fostering strong networks, understanding the unique needs of local enterprises, and creating synergies that propel business growth.

Moderator Sara Bukowiec, Rochester Area Community Foundation Panelists Albert Rivera, The Enterprise at Pathstone Scott Schmid, Venture Jobs Foundation

4:00 PM

Closing Remarks & Social Networking Hour

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WELCOMING OUR 2023

PROSPERITY CONFERENCE KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

Dr. Dell Gines VICE PRESIDENT

INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

Dr. Dell Gines is a seasoned nonprofit executive and certified economic developer with over 15 years of experience in organizational transformation and community impact.

As Vice President at the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), he manages partnerships, advisory services, and thought leadership initiatives.

Before joining IEDC, Dell led economic development programs at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City.

Dr. Gines has authored six guides on ecosystem building, focusing on equitable economic development in distressed urban and rural communities. His 2018 research report on Black women business startups has been cited by PBS, Forbes, Black Enterprise, CNN Business, and Entrepreneur magazine. He has spoken in over 26 states and 50 cities, often as a keynote speaker.

He is among the 5,500 Certified Economic Developers (CEcD) and holds a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Finance, and a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska School of Public Administration. He received the TOYO award from the Omaha Jaycees in 2011 and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s President’s Award in 2014, 2019, and 2021. In 2020, he was inducted into the Kansas City Black Achievers Society.

LEARN MORE AT IAMDELLGINES.COM! 2023 PROSPERITY CONFERENCE

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THANK YOU A huge thank you to the business owners and entrepreneur support organizations that participated in our 2023 Prosperity Conference! Please be sure to connect with these incredible small businesses and organizations.

Featured Small Businesses Blesson Bakery | Dominique Shannon - instagram.com/blessonbakery D’llias | Deondra Dukes - dllias.com Fancee Nail & Lash Studio | Nancy Armfield - fanceestudio.com Grisby's Auto Sales and Repair Shop | Mike and Marisol Grisby Legendary Beans Coffee | Dennis Gleason - legendarybeans.com Marvelous Mind Academy | Rosa Marie Curtis - marvelousminds.com ROC Events LLC | Marquita Rugless - www.theroc.events Taste Of Supreme | Asad Muhammad - tasteofsupreme.com Urban Eurphoria LLC | JNicolle Glover and Char Broome - urbaneuphoriallc.com

Entrepreneur Support Organizations Credit Consumer Counseling Services of Rochester - cccsofrochester.org Ibero American Action League - ibero.org Just Cause NY - justcauseny.org MCC Economic & Workforce Development Center - workforceforward.com RIT Center for Urban Entrepreneurship - rit.edu/cue Rochester Commissary - rochestercomissary.org Rochester Public Library Business Insight Center roccitylibrary.org/division/business-insight-center ROC Women's Business Center - urbanleagueroc.org/rwbc Third Eye Network - thirdeyenetwork.com Urban League of Rochester - urbanleagueroc.org Venture Jobs Foundation - venturejobs.org

Supporters Rochester Economic Development Corp. - redcoroc.com

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THANK YOU

The Venture Jobs Foundation is led by an enterprising board and dedicated staff and volunteer advisors who helped make this conference possible. Thank you for your passionate commitment to our mission!

Board of Directors Mohammad “Mo” Ahamed, Former director, Diversity and Inclusion, Nazareth College, CEO; Engaging Diversity and Inclusion Consulting, LLC Rachel Baker August, Principal, Baker August Consulting Megan Bell, Executive Director, Wilson Foundation Lawrence N. Chessin, MD, FACP, Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of Rochester Ralph Dandrea, CEO, ITX Corp.

Dennis M. DeLeo, Esq., President, Venture Jobs Foundation; Partner, Trillium Group, LLC Calvin Eaton, Executive Director, 540 West Main Steven Gersz, Esq., Partner, Underberg & Kessler Michel Ingham, Coach, US Women’s Olympic Sailing Team; Trustee, Kiva Rochester Howard Jacobson, Principal, Redrock 1886 Michael Parrinello, CPA, CVA, Partner, Bonadio Group Heidi Romer, Healthcare Consultant, Buffalo, Advocate for Community Development Brad Rye, Senior Vice-President, Eric Mower & Associates Truman Tolefree, Director of Acquisitions, Morgan Management Jeffrey Valentine, President, Valentinium, LLC. Christine Wagner, SSJ, PhD, Director, Rochester Area Health Foundation Antonia “Toni” Wynter, Entrepreneur and Community Advocate

Venture Jobs Foundation Team Dennis M. DeLeo, President Kenneth Marienau, Vice President Scott Schmid, Vice President, Lending Services Alexis Russell, Marketing Director; Founder of Inspiring Experiences LLC Laura Habza, Program Manager Kimberly Mitchell, CAFE Program Director Stephany Moore, CAFE Program Designer Shah Baig, Technology Manager Sherry Tshibangu

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THANK YOU

Acknowledging everyone who helped to make the 2023 Prosperity Conference a success!

Supporters, Speakers & Panelists Agustin Rodriguez, Ibero-American Action League, North Clinton Int’l Marketplace Albert Rivera, The Enterprise at Pathstone Andrea Colline, Consumer Credit Counseling Services Assunta Davidson, RIT Center for Urban Entrepreneurship Barbara Glassman Charlotte Burch, Thurston Brook Merchants Association Dr. Dell Gines, Vice President of the International Economic Development Council Dr. Lomax Campbell, Third Eye Network, LLC Kimberly Mitchell, CAFE Program (Venture Jobs Foundation) LaShunda Leslie-Smith, Connected Communities Mazi Bakari, Urban League of Rochester Rashid Muhammad, JustCause Sara Bukowiec, Rochester Area Community Foundation Scott Schmid, Venture Jobs Foundation Sherry Tshibangu

Vendors EXP Studio, LLC Inspiring Experiences LLC Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center ROC Events, LLC Oh’Davidson Creative Wow Werks LLC THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! SOCIAL NETWORKING HOUR SPONSOR

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N O T E S

N O T E S

N O T E S

THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING THE 2023 PROSPERITY CONFERENCE!

Impact.

Invest.

Imagine.

Learn more about Venture Jobs Foundation’s resources, support, and programs at vjfbusinessnetwork.org.

Venture Jobs Foundation 260 E Main St. Suite 2701 Rochester, NY 14604 Website: venturejobs.org Email: info@venturejobs.org