The numbers don’t lie. From start-ups and C-Suites to tech firms and beyond … women of color are making significant strides in the business world. In fact, data from the U.S. Census’ 2012 Survey of Business Owners shows that women of color are the fastest growing segment of entrepreneurs in the U.S.
For many minority business enterprises (MBEs), access to financial capital is critical for growth and sustainability. However, access to educational resources, human capital and professional networks is also vital to securing their dream of entrepreneurship and long-term career success.
Essence Communications Inc. is partnering with several federal agencies, private organizations, business leaders, entrepreneurs and influencers to launch their first-ever “Path to Power: Entrepreneurship and Business Conference during the annual Essence Festival in New Orleans June 29-July 2.
Essence Communications Inc. is a media company that publishes Essence Magazine, a monthly lifestyle, fashion and beauty magazine designed for African-American women. The company also hosts an annual Essence Music Festival that draws more than 400,000 attendees to New Orleans and adds more than $1 billion to Louisiana's local economy.
The conference is designed to help African -American women achieve their career goals, grow their businesses and build their professional networks. The three-day event will feature customized business and career development programming for entrepreneurs and career professionals at all levels.
The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) will provide free specialized business development workshops, an exhibit booth and one on one coaching sessions to attendees during the three-day conference.
Conference attendees will take part in daily general sessions, workshops tailored to entrepreneurs and business professionals, discussion panels and networking opportunities. Conference programs will focus on topics such as Creating Your Value Proposition & Marketing Your Brand; Small Biz Tech Start Up Kit; Doing Business with Corporate America; The Power of the Pivot: Knowing When It’s Time to Change Direction; Developing a Profitable and Sustainable Business Model; and Using Technology to Grow Your Business. MBDA is excited to lead several workshops focused on federal contracting, global markets, and innovation. To see the full schedule, download the conference app.
Essence and MBDA formed an official strategic partnership earlier this year that allows them to collaborate on events and opportunities that further the development and advancement of minority, women-owned businesses locally and globally.
The Essence Path to Power Conference is free and open to all members of the public. For registration information visit http://www.essence.com/festival/pathtopower
Follow us at @USMBDA on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates during the conference June 29-July 2.
Posted at 1:45 PM
