Business, Free News Articles

Leonard Jones Joins Blaylock Van, Wall Street’s Oldest Continually Operating Black-Owned Firm, as Executive Director of Municipal Banking, Public Finance

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. -- Industry veteran Leonard Jones has been named Executive Director of Municipal Banking and Head of Public Finance for Blaylock Van, LLC, the nation's longest-continuously operating Black-owned investment firm. In this role, he will lead the firm's banking team and solutions for local and municipal government organizations with a focus on financial and risk management.

Most recently, Jones was Managing Director of Moody's Investors Service, where he managed the company's public finance local government ratings group. Prior to that, he served as Partner and Head of Investment Banking for Rice Financial Products and Vice President of Morgan Stanley and Company in New York as well as Chief Consultant for the Zambia Privatization Agency in Zambia, among other notable industry leadership positions.

"Lenny's extensive leadership and strategic expertise will be a tremendous benefit to our clients and our team, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Blaylock Van," said Blaylock Van CEO and President Eric Standifer. "He is a visionary across municipal finance and investment banking as well as marketing and talent development, which will support the continued growth and innovation of our municipal banking and public finance enterprise."

Jones received his MBA from Stanford University's Graduate School of Business and his bachelor's degree in economics from Dartmouth College. He also serves as Board Treasurer for the New York Urban League.

Certified as a Minority Business Enterprise by the State of New York, the State of Wisconsin, the City of New York, and the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Blaylock Van is 81 percent Black-owned. Blaylock Van serves corporations, municipalities, investment managers, and pension funds with a diverse employee base committed to work beyond financial services.

About Blaylock Van, LLC:

Blaylock Van, LLC (BV) is the oldest and continuously operating Black-owned banking firm in the United States, providing personalized services for clients across the country. Clients include corporations, municipalities, investment managers, pension funds, and family offices. The firm's headquarters are in New York City, with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, and Oakland, Calif.

For more information, please visit https://brv-llc.com/

Related link: https://brv-llc.com/

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Business, Free News Articles, Regional Events

IMPACT AZ 2025 Kicks Off Arizona’s Largest Supplier Diversity Readiness Program with More Than 50 Black-owned Businesses

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Setting the stage for dramatic change among Black-owned Arizona businesses, IMPACT AZ 2025 is kicking off its supplier diversity readiness program to close the racial wealth gap for business owners through a three-year supplier diversity readiness program, Thinkzilla Consulting Group announced today.

The program offers a hybrid of an online curriculum through an interactive e-learning platform with in-person sessions, mentorship and live business coaching. Additionally, business owners a strategic action growth plan with benchmarks and performance targets to access the support and resources necessary to win contracts. The first cohort launches April 24, 2023, in Scottsdale, Arizona, with a full-day business assessment and welcome remarks from major community stakeholders.

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a leading nonprofit organization that has helped more than 8,000 diverse women entrepreneurs across the country while addressing barriers to economic mobility, will execute the Impact AZ 2025 programming in partnership with the Black Chamber of Arizona in response to the State of Black Business Report, which highlighted financial gaps and opportunities for diverse business owners.

The solutions-driven accelerator program will expand procurement opportunities with corporations and government entities, preparing business owners to win contracts. Fortune 500 companies spend about 2% annually on minority-owned suppliers, well short of the 10-15% spending goals many corporations set each year, leading to significant improvement opportunities for traditional supplier diversity approaches.

"We are thrilled to be a part of moving the great state of Arizona forward," said Dr. Velma Trayham, founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy. "More than 50 local businesses now have access to opportunities and resources that will create job opportunities and economic impact. I look forward to helping more than 250 companies get access to contracting readiness and opportunities. We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, technical assistance partners, mentors and advisors for making this program possible."

JPMorgan Chase is the title sponsor for IMPACT AZ 2025, with additional sponsorship from Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, Via West Group, American Landmark Apartments, and community partners such as Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the City of Phoenix, the Arizona Informant, Commerce Bank AZ, Growth Partners Arizona, AIANNH Project NABEDC, operated by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation and SCORE.

"Impact AZ 2025 is groundbreaking for its size and focus on Black entrepreneurs, with clearly measurable metrics focused on advancing Black-owned businesses from solopreneurship to employer-based companies that surpass the $1 million revenue threshold," said Robin Reed, CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona. "Using data from the State of Black Business report, Impact AZ addresses the most urgent needs for Black-owned businesses today."

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy's Scottsdale office at Arizona State University's Skysong 3 will provide a physical space for entrepreneurs to meet with mentors and corporations as part of the program, which includes three nine-month accelerators. The space will also support collaboration, networking opportunities and round table discussions for business growth.

"JPMorgan Chase is profoundly committed to supporting programs that help close the racial wealth gap and uplifting our Black business and entrepreneurial community is key to achieving that goal," said Ashley Kelly, Senior Business Consultant for Chase in Arizona. "This program will deliver expertise and support to help participants scale and grow their businesses in a sustainable manner. I'm very excited about supporting this collaboration."

"This market cannot fully reach its potential while there are segments of our population underrepresented in high-wage occupations or unable to receive the requisite capital to support innovative business," said Chris Camacho, President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. "This initiative takes a critical step in addressing this disparity, with an actionable, solution-driven approach to leveraging regional connections to support Black-owned suppliers and businesses."

Fifty-two Arizona businesses have been accepted into the program, including:

1st Infinity Realty, LLC | 1st Step to Greatness Childcare and Learning Center | Advanced Professional Security | Agape Mortgage Group | All Are Heard Translation/Notary Service | Alla Herbs | Alyrik's Castle | Artastic Art | Beep Beep Interlock | Bri Bucks Coaching and Credit | Bridge Consulting Service, LLC | Broom Bush Tea Co. | Buddhalovmobile | Business Credit Works | Chanel Your Stylist | Citrines, LLC | Coco B Cares | Connect Consulting Solutions DNA Lifestyles, LLC | Down Syndrome Forgotten| Education FIRM, LLC | Essential IV Drip | Finance Therapy Group | Heal Me Fit | Healing Hands | Oasis Wellness Center & Apothecary, LLC | i see water LLC | Inquisicare | Jenga Haus | Kings Glow LLC| LifeologyAZ, Inc.| Lion Eye Design, LLC | Lionsmanseamoss | Live Like You Coaching, LLC | Ms. Martha's Caribbean Kitchen LLC | N-Ovate Business Solutions, LLC | PhillipRobert LLC | Phoenix Play Dates and Field Trips | Phoenix's Favorite Commercial Cleaner | Phree Tha Truth | Radiant Sky Wellness Center | Risome | Simply Celeste's | Sweeping Broom | The Outlandish Blueprint | Top Onyx LLC | TRUE CONFESSION | Vision World LLC | W3AVING W3BS | Yhorlife Inc | Zion Institute.

"This curriculum provides an opportunity for us to improve the tracking, synthesis and socialization of the actionable data for a paradigm shift in Black business owners' generational health and wealth," said Teniqua Broughton, Executive Director for The State of Black Arizona says. "I am pleased to see this collaboration taking a data-driven approach to finding solutions within our Black business ecosystem in our state for wealth building."

About IMPACT AZ 2025:

IMPACT AZ 2025 is Arizona's largest supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap of black business owners. Supported by the Millionaire Mastermind Academy in partnership with the Black Chamber of Arizona, IMPACT AZ 2025 is a three-year business accelerator focused on supplier diversity training to grow business opportunities.

For more information, visit https://impactaz2025.com/

RELATED LINKS:

https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

https://www.gpec.org/blog/regional-report-state-of-black-business-2022/

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

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Business, Free News Articles, NonProfit and Charities, Regional Events

IMPACT AZ 2025 Announces JPMorgan Chase as Title Sponsor and Program Details for Supplier Diversity Readiness Initiative

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Millionaire Mastermind Academy announced today that IMPACT AZ 2025, a nine-month supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap for black and minority business owners, is proud to announce JPMorgan Chase as its title sponsor. Since 2015, JPMorgan Chase has spent $11 billion with diverse suppliers. In 2020 alone, the diverse supplier spend was over $2 billion. JPMorgan Chase Global Supplier Diversity's mission is to develop and engage with certified and qualified diverse businesses to promote economic growth in communities.

IMPACT AZ 2025 is an action-focused program that includes a physical space to assist business owners with resources to promote stability and growth and business development for supplier diversity opportunities. It features procurement access, mentorship and networking opportunities, training in accounting and finance, access to public and private partnerships, and more. According to a recent report, supplier diversity programs could add $280 billion in income and four million new jobs to the U.S. economy.

"JPMorgan Chase is profoundly committed to supporting programs that help close the racial wealth gap and uplifting our Black business and entrepreneurial community is key to achieving that goal," said Ashley Kelly, Senior Business Consultant for Chase in Arizona. "This program will deliver expertise and support to help participants scale and grow their businesses in a sustainable manner. I'm very excited about supporting this collaboration."

IMPACT 2025, a direct response to the 2022 State of Black Business report released by the State of Black Arizona, is accepting corporate support to ensure the program is no-cost for cohort participants. The report shared that more than half of Black business owners in Arizona face a lack of access to capital driven by low levels of personal wealth, creditworthiness disparities and low loan request rates.

Corporations interested in supporting IMPACT AZ 2025 can contact info@impactaz2025.com or call 888-509-1145.

​"I was born into poverty and had to bootstrap my business and learn how to grow and succeed. A decade later, I have built a national brand and am privileged to share everything I learned to help others do the same," said Dr. Velma Trayham, founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy. "I credit hard work, faith, and having access to procurement opportunities for my ability to rise above poverty. I am thrilled and honored to support the Arizona business community and have supporters like JPMorgan Chase who understand the deep need for such work."

IMPACT AZ 2025 is accepting applications from small business owners interested in a solutions-driven program that will help them grow business with corporations, expand customer discovery and enhance financial management and business development. The application deadline is March 15, and the program will kick off on April 24 at the Millionaire Mastermind Academy's Scottsdale office at Arizona State University's Skysong 3.

Key business activities will support building capacity for contracts, financial planning and management, income generation, business operations, and more.

About IMPACT AZ 2025:

IMPACT AZ 2025 is a supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap of business owners. Supported by the Millionaire Mastermind Academy and the Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce, IMPACT AZ 2025 is a nine-month business accelerator focused on supplier diversity training to grow business opportunities. For more information, visit https://impactaz2025.com/

About Millionaire Mastermind Academy:

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to educate and support the growth of women-owned business enterprises, thereby strengthening the economic impact in their community. We have mentored more than 8,000 women through technical assistance & economic empowerment programs. For more information, visit https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Nancy Davis
Thinkzilla Consulting Group
888-509-1145
info@thinkzillaconsulting.com

# # #

This news was created and issued on behalf of Millionaire Mastermind Academy by Thinkzilla Consulting Group ( https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/ ).

Related link: https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

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Business, Free News Articles

Blaylock Van, LLC Shares its 2022 Year-End Report

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. -- In its year-end report spanning financials, deals, and community investment, Blaylock Van, LLC, the nation's longest continuously operating Black-owned investment banking firm, reported 23 percent growth in notional deal volume year-over-year, with 67 debt capital markets new issues representing nearly $186 billion notional. From 2018 to 2022, Blaylock Van's closed transactions increased by a CAGR of 23 percent and dealt notional value by 50%.

In addition, the firm's municipal team participated in 69 new issue municipal deals approaching $34 billion in debt as of Dec. 1. The team was selected to serve as co-manager on a $3.2 billion Texas Public Finance Authority issuance-the largest the agency has ever issued- and served as co-senior on the $409.7 million City of Atlanta General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, of which one tranche was classified as Social Bonds.

"Our global team continues to capture new business, report remarkable growth, and showcase the strength of diversity from year to year," said Blaylock Van CEO and President Eric Standifer. "Our 2022 results speak for themselves, and we know we have powerful positive momentum to build on in 2023 and beyond."

Notable debt capital market deals included serving as co-manager on Magallanes' $30 billion transaction, a mega-transaction that opened the new issuance market to issuance in Q1 2022. This was the fifth-largest corporate bond in industry history and the largest deal in 2022. Blaylock Van also served as co-manager on PG&E Wildlife Recovery Funding LLE Series 2022-B $3.9 billion Rate Reduction Bond Securitization.

Furthermore, Blaylock Van served as co-manager for the two largest IPOs in 2022, including TPG's offering, which raised $1.1 billion across 37.2 million shares and was the largest IPO of the year, and Mobileye's IPO, which raised $820 million across 47.15 million shares.

Other key 2022 highlights for Blaylock Van include:

* The firm partnered with Cowen, Inc. to conduct a webinar on Navigating the ESG Path, which centered on bridging the gap between sustainable strategies and financial performance and the intersection of ESG strategy and financial performance.

* Blaylock Van participated in several notable sustainable bond transactions, including a $2 billion Bank of America Sustainability Bond, serving as joint lead; Bank of America used six minority- and women-owned broker dealers as joint lead managers with proceeds to advance racial gender equity, economic opportunity and environmental sustainability. Additionally, the firm participated in the $2.5 billion Citi Inaugural Social Bond for Housing, serving as senior co-manager on the social bond. This was the largest social bond issued by the private sector in 2022 and it won Social Bond of the Year at the Environmental Finance Bond Awards. Bond proceeds will finance construction, rehabilitation and preservation of quality affordable housing for low- and moderate-income populations.

* In February, the company launched an African team based in Nairobi to support U.S. clients in their financial activities throughout the continent. The team, which boasts broad experience across banking, corporate finance, and treasury, leads on a general assessment of and market intelligence on key economics in Africa, focusing on foreign exchange and working capital.

* Blaylock Van expanded its sales and investment banking teams by hiring senior talent across credit sales, syndicate, and capital markets, adding significant experience and expertise in these sectors.

* The global BV team supports nonprofits such as buildOn, which delivers service-learning programs in underserved U.S. high schools and builds schools in some of the world's poorest countries to break the cycle of poverty; CEO Standifer also joined the organization's California Board of Directors. The team also gives time, support, and donations to nonprofits, including the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, which helps create entrepreneurship opportunities for diverse women across the United States, as well as Cancer Care, the leading national organization dedicated to providing free professional supports services to anyone affected by cancer, and San Francisco Achievers, which supports African-American young men in the San Francisco Unified School District to lead and thrive in higher education, among others.

* Blaylock Van was a partner for the 2nd annual United Diversity Business Summit, with Standifer serving as a keynote speaker, where he shared "The Importance of Diverse and Inclusive Decision-Making."

Certified as a Minority Business Enterprise by the State of New York, Wisconsin, the City of New York, and the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Blaylock Van is 89 percent Black-owned. Blaylock Van serves corporations, municipalities, investment managers and pension funds with a diverse employee base committed to work beyond financial services.

About Blaylock Van, LLC:

Blaylock Van, LLC (BV) is the oldest and continuously operating Black-owned banking firm in the United States, providing personalized services for clients across the country. Clients include corporations, municipalities, investment managers, pension funds, and family offices. The firm's headquarters are in New York City, with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus, Ohio, Dallas, Miami, and Oakland, Calif.

For more information, please visit https://brv-llc.com/

Related link: https://brv-llc.com/

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Business, Free News Articles

IMPACT AZ 2025 Keys in on Supplier Diversity Readiness to Close Racial Wealth Gap for Black-owned Businesses

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Designed to make an impact for Black-owned businesses in the new year and beyond, IMPACT AZ 2025 focuses on supplier diversity readiness to close the racial wealth gap for diverse business owners. The Millionaire Mastermind Academy program is accepting applications from serious entrepreneurs interested in a solutions-driven accelerator program that will help them grow business with corporations, expand customer discovery and market validation, and enhance financial management and business development, Thinkzilla Consulting Group announced today.

IMPACT AZ 2025 is the first direct response to the State of Black Business Report, which highlighted both the financial gaps in this community as well as the opportunity: The Black community is fastest-growing demographic in Arizona, with 33% growth from 2010 to 2020. The nine-month program is a collaboration between the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a leading nonprofit organization that has mentored more than 8,000 diverse women entrepreneurs while addressing barriers to economic mobility, in conjunction with the Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce.

"While Arizona continues to grow its commitment to diverse business ownership, institutional barriers to success such as lack of access to capital and quality business trainings are still a reality. That's what we're here to change," said Dr. Velma Trayham, founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy. "This unique program invites more voices to the table and more support in developing and realizing entrepreneurial goals."

Applications opened Jan. 10 with a deadline of March 15. The initial accelerator program will kick off April 24. The Millionaire Mastermind Academy's Scottsdale, office, located at Arizona State University's Skysong 3, will provide a physical space for entrepreneurs to meet with mentors and corporations part of the Supplier Diversity program. The space will also support collaboration, networking opportunities and round table discussions for business growth.

By 2025, the initiative aims to expose more than 25,000 individuals to entrepreneurship opportunity and education, a minimum of 50 businesses awarded contracts with companies for supplier diversity while empowering more than 200 new businesses to launch and more than 500 established businesses to grow their employee base. IMPACT AZ 2025 is targeting the food service, real estate, beauty/fashion, technology, professional services, retail and trade, and manufacturing industries.

"For Arizona to thrive, attract industries, and be a place people want to live, work and raise their families, we cannot afford - financially or morally - to leave anyone out. This is not about helping one group at the expense of another. We must continue to make intentional, targeted investments of political, social and business capital to aid in our priority to building a better ecosystem for Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. It is a matter of good business which creates greater opportunities for all Arizonans," noted Teniqua Broughton, Executive Director, State of Black Arizona.

"Breaking down barriers and helping Black business owners overcome obstacles to entrepreneurship, we are creating meaningful economic opportunity through the power of supplier diversity programs, which are more critical than ever to businesses of all sizes," Robin Reed, CEO of Black Chamber of Arizona added.

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy expanded to Arizona two years ago and has helped minority women nationwide gain the entrepreneurial resources needed to succeed in business, while awarding more than $200,000 in scholarships and more than $50,000 in seed funding. The program also offers a Real Estate Accelerator Program to help minority women create diversity in the real estate industry.

Corporations interested in supporting IMPACT AZ 2025 to develop a ready-made pipeline of diverse suppliers can contact info@impactaz2025.com or call 888-508-1145. Sponsors will be announced shortly.

About IMPACT AZ 2025

IMPACT AZ 2025 is a supplier diversity readiness program designed to close the racial wealth gap of business owners. Supported by the Millionaire Mastermind Academy in partnership with the Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce, IMPACT AZ 2025 is a nine-month business accelerator focused on supplier diversity training to grow business opportunities. For more information visit https://impactaz2025.com/

About Millionaire Mastermind Academy

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy is a Nationwide pioneering 501(c)(3) nonprofit addressing the barriers to economic mobility for minority women who have been systemically and historically underserved and excluded. We remove systemic barriers. We've helped more than 8000 Women Across the country and serve thousands of women annually with entrepreneurial resources, tools, and access to move forward in life. For more information visit https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/.

About the Black Chamber of Commerce

The Black Chamber of Arizona help increase entrepreneurial and corporate diversity by building stronger businesses that serve all communities. We do this by providing tools and education to create more "bankable" businesses, by removing barriers that impede access to capital, and by partnering with leading educational institutions to help create competitive business advantages through workforce diversity. For more information visit https://blackchamberaz.com/.

About The State of Black Arizona

The State of Black Arizona is the leader in the production, synthesis and socialization of actionable data and insights for all Arizonans with a primary focus on the Black community. Across Arizona, communities of color are underrepresented in the public sphere and significantly disproportionately impacted by many conditions that result in unequitable outcomes in areas such as education, economic mobility, and health and well-being. A concerted effort is needed to ensure these concerns are identified, validated, and brought to the attention to the Black community in addition to civic and community leaders. For more information visit https://stateofblackarizona.org/

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.gpec.org/blog/regional-report-state-of-black-business-2022/

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

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Business, Free News Articles, Funding and Investment

California African American Women Partnership Sage Investment Club Celebrates 25 Years of Stock Market Education and Profits

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Sage Investment Club, an investment firm managed by an all-female, African American leadership team, today celebrates 25 years since the launch of its investment platform. Founded by Sonya Weaver-Johnson, the group offers investment education and co-investment opportunities.

While working as a self-employed day trader, Ms. Weaver-Johnson was surprised to learn that women were less likely to invest in the stock market than their male peers. This startling fact inspired her to form a community of women she would personally equip with the knowledge to become skilled investors. From the outset, she began educating women about capital markets, offering a proven investment strategy and a simple platform for trading.

Today, Sage Investment Club is ringing the proverbial bell to celebrate its 25th anniversary, and members continue to profit substantially from this unique venture.

According to a 2021 survey conducted by NerdWallet, "Forty-eight percent of women currently invest in the stock market compared to 66% of men. What's more alarming is women are less likely than men to have learned about investments."

Sage Investment Club has been on a mission to bridge this gap for over two decades. Early in the club's history, Ms. Weaver-Johnson claimed, "With a little education and engagement, virtually anyone can become a successful investor." Unsurprisingly, her bold statement has rung true for dozens of women trained by the club over the years.

The members of Sage Investment Club use a cloud-based application to manage club operations, and its internal systems are secure and automated. Also, these highly educated women have diverse professional backgrounds and are leaders in healthcare, technology, law, entertainment, and education. The club reached its silver anniversary by leveraging technology, applying industry-specific thought leadership, committing to sound investment principles, and fostering a sisterhood - something few other investment groups can claim. Since its inception, the club's portfolio has consistently outperformed the S&P 500 and NASDAQ indexes.

Although investment management is the club's core function, it has a long-standing culture of giving back. Club members are highly active in their communities and support charitable organizations through board service, philanthropy, and volunteerism.

Looking forward, Sage Investment Club plans to further diversify its portfolio by investing in modern vehicles like socially responsible exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and the metaverse. Additionally, the club aims to provide a unique space where women can learn and earn together for years to come.

More Information: https://sageinvestmentclub.com/.

About Sage:

Sage Investment Club is an all-female, African American investment group founded in 1997. Based in California, it is one of the longest-running investment clubs in the United States. Members cooperatively manage a high-value portfolio of equity securities and cash equivalents using a proprietary investment strategy. The club's motto is "Learning and earning together."

MULTIMEDIA:

Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/23-0112-s2p-sonjawj-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: Sonya Weaver-Johnson, MBA, founder and Managing Partner, Sage Investment Club.

SOCIAL LINKS:

- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/sageinvestmentclub/

- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sageinvestmentclub

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sageinvestmentclub/

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/sageinvestmentc

- Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@sageinvestmentclub

Related link: https://sageinvestmentclub.com/

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Business, Free News Articles, Regional Events

Business and Empowerment Leader Dr. Velma Trayham Named Keynote Speaker for Black Changemaker Series Presented by ASU and the State of Black Arizona

TEMPE, Ariz. -- With a focus on building generational wealth, award-winning B2B/diversity consultant and leader Dr. Velma Trayham will serve as keynote speaker for the Black Changemaker Series on Nov. 9. The Black Changemaker Series: Building Generational Wealth, Empowering the Black Entrepreneur will share conversations and tools around growing wealth and using education as a springboard, connecting the local community to higher education leaders and entrepreneurs.

Dr. Trayham is the CEO of Thinkzilla Consulting, a Black- and woman-owned brand engagement and program development agency that opened its third office in Scottsdale, Arizona last year, and founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a nationwide nonprofit that provides entrepreneurial training and mentorship programming to help minority women rise above poverty through empowered entrepreneurship and spiritual development. Dr. Trayham is also an award-winning entrepreneur, author, speaker and mentor.

The special event takes place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Junior Achievement, 636 W. Southern Ave. in Tempe. Registration is free.

The overall effort is a multifaceted approach to a multifaceted issue that can have a significant effect on not only individuals' livelihoods but on Arizona's economy overall, said Teniqua Broughton, executive director of the State of Black Arizona.

"Investing in Black Arizonans is critical to the future of Arizona's economy. The Grand Canyon state cannot reach its full growth and development potential without understanding and acting upon the merits of inclusive prosperity," Broughton said.

Panelists include:

Joseph Early, an Arizona State University senior and business owner of Mane Strategies; Jay Hutchins, who recently launched his second business, Allied Help; and Adylia Gutierrez, a wellness coach for Yhor Life. The Black Changemaker Series is presented by Arizona State University, Arizona Public Service, The State of Black Arizona, Black Philanthropy Initiative Social Justice Impact Fund and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council.

"The Black Changemaker Series is already making waves and sparking change for young entrepreneurs across Arizona, and I am honored to share my insights on the ability to build wealth through entrepreneurship," said Dr. Trayham. "When we share our wisdom and pool our strengths, we build stronger individuals, businesses and communities."

Nationally recognized for creating programs for Fortune 500 companies and government entities that engage underrepresented communities and minority women, Trayham's previous national speaking and Influencer campaigns include Vistaprint, Cheddar News, Atlanta Black Chamber, Truist bank among others. Her previous speaking engagements include the American Heart Association, Georgia Power, Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Greater Phoenix Urban League, Atlanta Business Chronicle, Texas Black Expo and many more.

She is the recipient of President Biden's Lifetime Achievement Award and was named Top 100 Women of Influence in Atlanta 2020, 2021 and 2022 as well as Women of the Year Finalist by the Atlanta Business League. To date, her programs have helped more than 8,000 women create small businesses and achieve economic empowerment.

About Dr. Velma Trayham:

Dr. Velma Trayham is an award-winning entrepreneur, author, speaker and economic empowerment specialist who believes in the power of inclusive, equitable businesses to create community and spark change. The CEO of Thinkzilla Consulting Group, which brings greater awareness to initiatives that support underserved communities. For more information, please visit https://velmatrayham.com/.

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

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Business, Free News Articles, Regional Events

Blaylock Van Partners to Support 2nd Annual United Diversity Business Summit

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Blaylock Van, LLC, the nation's longest continuously operating Black-owned investment bank, will serve as a sponsorship partner for the 2nd annual United Diversity Business Summit, Presented by Thinkzilla Consulting Group & The City of Scottsdale. The Sept. 14 summit will convene diverse business leaders and entrepreneurs across Arizona.

The annual summit is a critical part of the work to accelerate DEI progress; each person's new tools, connections, and understanding will be taken and transformed into action. Whether that is a conversion, a commitment to action, a policy change, a new community partnership, etc., the need to carry the energy, information, and momentum forward is essential to driving equity and inclusion.

Certified as a Minority Business Enterprise by the State of New York, Wisconsin, the City of New York, and the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Blaylock Van is 81 percent Black-owned. It recently established a formal training program as part of its DEI initiatives. It serves corporations, municipalities, investment managers, and pension funds with a diverse employee base committed to working beyond financial services.

"We are honored to again have the support of an organization that threads diversity and inclusivity into everything it does," said summit's founder and CEO of Thinkzilla Consulting, Dr. Velma Trayham. "Blaylock Van has an incredible history. We are thrilled that Eric Standifer will share some secrets to their ongoing success with diversity, inclusivity, and equity in the investment world."

"As the oldest Black-owned investment bank in the country, we have a unique perspective on diversity best practices," Standifer added. "I look forward to sharing some of our challenges, opportunities, and insights on making decisions and taking actions that truly incorporate diverse perspectives."

The 2022 United Diversity Business Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Center with the theme of "Enhancing the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem through Diversity, Community and Innovation." It is free for attendees.

Attendees will learn from more than 25 keynote experts on innovative approaches and best practices to improve economic diversity outcomes for organizations and entrepreneurs. The summit will host two tracks: Track 1 is designed for public and private companies seeking to increase diversity outcomes, and Track 2 incorporates business development programs to attract and grow the minority small business community. Workshop topics will include using disruption to advance business strategy, entrepreneurship 101, supplier diversity, inclusive decision-making, overcoming financial challenges, and more.

In addition to Standifer, speakers for the 2022 summit include David Ortega, Mayor of Scottsdale; Dr. Velma Trayham, CEO of Thinkzilla; Jackie Johnson, Diversity Director for the City of Scottsdale; Rob Millar, Economic Development Director for the City of Scottsdale; Art Hamilton, founder of the Art Hamilton Group; Danny Seiden, President, and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Cloves Campbell, co-publisher of the Arizona Informant and more to be announced.

Other Event Sponsors Include SRP (Salt River Project), ASU Office of Economic Development, Country Financial, Fry's Food Stores, and Truist Bank.

Registration is now available at https://uniteddiversitybusinesssummit.com/

About Blaylock Van, LLC:

Blaylock Van, LLC (BV) is the oldest and continuously operating Black-owned investment bank in the United States, providing personalized services for clients across the country. Clients include corporations, municipalities, investment managers, pension funds, and family offices.

The Firm's headquarters are in New York City, with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, and Oakland, Calif. For more information, please visit https://brv-llc.com/.

Related link: https://brv-llc.com/

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Business, Free News Articles, Regional Events

Momentum Builds for United Diversity Business Summit on September 14

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Response from the business community has been strong as the 2nd Annual installment of Arizona's top conference on diversity and inclusion grows closer, with several major sponsors on board and a list of expert speakers committing to the event, Thinkzilla Consulting Group announced today.

The 2022 United Diversity Business Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Center with a theme of "Enhancing the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem through Diversity, Community and Innovation." It is free for attendees.

The event's organizers have announced four new major sponsors that are helping to make this important conference a reality: Salt River Project, Blaylock Van, Country Financial and the Arizona State University Office of Economic Development.

And, the lineup of quality speakers continues to grow. Speakers for the 2022 summit include:

* David Ortega, Mayor of Scottsdale

* Dr. Velma Trayham, CEO of Thinkzilla

* Jackie Johnson, Diversity Director for the City of Scottsdale

* Rob Millar, Economic Development Director for the City of Scottsdale

* Art Hamilton, founder of the Art Hamilton Group

* Danny Seiden, President and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry

* Cloves Campbell, co-publisher of the Arizona Informant

* Eric Standifer, President and CEO of Blaylock Van

* Ashlee Atkins, President of Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals (YP)

* Mark Stanton, President & CEO of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce

* Keasha Beach, Executive Director of BASE Arizona

Registration for the event has been brisk and has increased in the past couple of weeks, so potential attendees are encouraged to register now to ensure their attendance.

"We are very excited about how the event is coming together and the compelling speakers and content we will be bringing together on September 14," Dr. Trayham said. "We are grateful to our sponsors - particularly Salt River Project, Blaylock Van, Country Financial and the ASU Office of Economic Development - for making this event possible. We are looking forward to advancing the discussion of diversity in business and creating invaluable connections for corporations and entrepreneurs in our community."

The summit recently announced its distinguished co-chairs: Cameron Robb, Senior Development Consultant at APS; Jackie Johnson, City of Scottsdale Diversity Director; and former Arizona State Representative Art Hamilton. Presented by Thinkzilla Consulting Group and the City of Scottsdale, the Sept. 14 summit will convene diverse business leaders and entrepreneurs from across Arizona to share ideas and innovations.

The United Diversity Business Summit will spearhead break-out sessions and training workshops covering various topics and industries with the aim of moving 100 or more companies forward and expanding fast-growing diverse small businesses across the Valley.

The United Diversity Business Summit offers corporations and governmental entities the opportunity to reach more than 500 business owners during the event and through pre- and post-event marketing. Each year as a part of Thinkzilla Consulting Group's "Diversity Business Awareness" aimed at increasing patronage of Inclusive Organizations, the "Diversity Business Summit " Co-Chair committee salutes and highlights the accomplishments of five diverse businesses in Scottsdale.

Attendees will learn from more than 25 speakers on innovative approaches and best practices to improve economic diversity outcomes for organizations and entrepreneurs. This year's summit will host two tracks: Track 1 is designed for public and private companies seeking to increase diversity outcomes and Track 2 incorporates business development programs to attract and grow the minority small business community. Workshop topics will include using disruption to advance business strategy, entrepreneurship 101, supplier diversity, inclusive decision-making, recognizing and overcoming financial challenges, and more.

Registration is now available at https://uniteddiversitybusinesssummit.com/

About Thinkzilla Consulting Group:

ThinkZILLA is one of the country's fastest-growing DE&I Consulting, digital engagement, and program management firms. Making brands more relevant, ThinkZILLA builds meaningful connections between brands and consumers. For more information on ThinkZILLA or to schedule a consultation, please visit https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/.

About the City of Scottsdale:

Scottsdale is one of the state's leading job centers, with a diverse economy built on medical research, high-tech innovation, tourism, and corporate headquarters. Scottsdale is home to nearly 18,000 businesses supplying over 150,000 jobs. The high-tech innovation center SkySong, located just a few miles from Downtown, is designed to help companies grow through a unique partnership with nearby Arizona State University. For more information, visit https://www.choosescottsdale.com/.

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Economic Development, Free News Articles, Government

Co-Chairs Announced for 2nd Annual United Diversity Business Summit, Cameron Robb, Jackie Johnson and Art Hamilton

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Building on the impact and success of 2021 "United Diversity Business Summit," bringing together a trifecta of leadership and insight, the 2nd annual Summit has announced its distinguished co-chairs: Cameron Robb, Senior Development Consultant at APS; Jackie Johnson, City of Scottsdale Diversity Director; and former Arizona State Representative Art Hamilton. Presented by Thinkzilla Consulting Group and the City of Scottsdale, the Sept. 14 summit will convene diverse business leaders and entrepreneurs from across Arizona to share ideas and innovations.

With this expanded leadership team, the United Diversity Business Summit will spearhead break-out sessions and training workshops covering various topics and industries. With the aim of moving 100 or more companies forward and expanding fast-growing diverse small businesses across the valley.

Cameron Robb's role at APS, helps bring clean, reliable and affordable energy to more than 2.7 million Arizonans. Further diversity throughout the City of Scottsdale, Jackie Johnson sets the strategic direction for DEI initiatives, integrating diversity with the city's core mission and values. A 26-year-public servant, Art Hamilton became a state legislator at age 21 and served as minority leader of the Arizona House of Representatives for nearly two decades; he was also the first Black and only Arizonan to be elected to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The 2022 United Diversity Business Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Center with a theme of "Enhancing the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem through Diversity, Community and Innovation." It is free for attendees.

"Creating a sustainable future for everyone in Arizona means that we must offer a path to reliable and affordable energy for everyone," Robb said. "We believe in leading the way with innovation and supporting everyone in the diverse communities we serve. I am honored to serve as co-chair for the United Diversity Business Summit and help to bring more voices and perspectives to the leader's table."

Attendees will learn from more than 25 speakers on innovative approaches and best practices to improve economic diversity outcomes for organizations and entrepreneurs. This year's summit will host two tracks: Track 1 is designed for public and private companies seeking to increase diversity outcomes and Track 2 incorporates business development programs to attract and grow the minority small business community. Workshop topics will include using disruption to advance business strategy, entrepreneurship 101, supplier diversity, inclusive decision-making, recognizing and overcoming financial challenges, and more.

"As a steady voice for the underrepresented, I appreciate the opportunity to engage greater diversity, equity and inclusion throughout Scottsdale with this summit and all of the incredible initiatives it sparks," Johnson added. "This year's event has an extraordinary wealth of talent, insight, and diverse perspectives and expertise."

Speakers for the 2022 summit include: David Ortega, Mayor of Scottsdale; Dr. Velma Trayham, CEO of Thinkzilla; Jackie Johnson, Diversity Director for the City of Scottsdale; Rob Millar, Economic Development Director for the City of Scottsdale; Art Hamilton, founder of the Art Hamilton Group; Danny Seiden, President and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Cloves Campbell, co-publisher of the Arizona Informant; Eric Standifer, President and CEO of Blaylock Van and more to be announced.

Registration is now available at https://uniteddiversitybusinesssummit.com/

About Thinkzilla Consulting Group:

ThinkZILLA is one of the country's fastest-growing DE&I Consulting, digital engagement, and program management firms. Making brands more relevant, ThinkZILLA builds meaningful connections between brands and consumers. For more information on ThinkZILLA or to schedule a consultation, please visit https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/.

About the City of Scottsdale:

Scottsdale is one of the state's leading job centers, with a diverse economy built on medical research, high-tech innovation, tourism, and corporate headquarters. Scottsdale is home to nearly 18,000 businesses supplying over 150,000 jobs. The high-tech innovation center SkySong, located just a few miles from Downtown, is designed to help companies grow through a unique partnership with nearby Arizona State University. For more information, visit https://www.choosescottsdale.com/.

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022