Atlanta Welcomes Minority Business Owners for Supplier Development Week
Atlanta, a city known for its vibrant culture and rich history, recently played host to an exciting event that brought together minority business owners from across the nation. From October 21 to 25, the annual National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) Week took place, attracting entrepreneurs eager to elevate their businesses to new heights.
This year’s conference was a grand affair featuring representatives from influential companies such as Amazon, Apple, Walmart, Salesforce, and Disney. With a mission to enhance business growth and success for underrepresented entrepreneurs, the event offered a treasure trove of valuable information, resources, and networking opportunities.
The Power of Networking
Some big names graced the event as speakers, including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Clark Atlanta University President Dr. George French, and Morris Brown College President Dr. Kevin James. Their presence underlined the importance of community engagement and support for minority businesses.
The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, Inc. (RICE), located in Atlanta, played a pivotal role in the week’s programming. Kicking off the conference with four days full of panels and programs, RICE aimed to create pathways for minority entrepreneurs. Shawn M. Graham, Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer for RICE, stated, “NMSDC Week represents the culmination of RICE’s mission to create pathways for minority entrepreneurs by offering them access to the world’s most influential companies and thought leaders.”
Exciting Sessions Filled the Agenda
The first day was packed with dynamic sessions. Attendees engaged with representatives from Walt Disney Co. and participated in programs offered by Amazon’s B3 Elevation, a nonprofit aiming to assist small businesses in achieving certification for corporation and government contracts. This combination of corporate insights and hands-on workshops provided a holistic view of navigating the business landscape.
On the second day, Disney on the Yard was launched, connecting high school seniors and college students with internship and career opportunities at Disney. It was a unique chance for young individuals to step into the corporate world and explore exciting career paths.
As the week progressed, the session moved to the Apple store in Lenox Mall. Entrepreneurs were offered a workshop titled “Apple for Entrepreneurs: Tech Tips for Success.” This tech-savvy session was crucial for business owners looking to leverage technology for growth.
Unlocking Resources for Success
The workshops didn’t stop there. On the last day, a workshop named “Unlocking Resources: Your Roadmap to Small Business Success” equipped attendees with essential tools and strategies to elevate their businesses. It was an opportunity for entrepreneurs to align with RICE’s Community Resource Partners.
One standout moment from the event came from Ralph E. Sagaille, Director of Strategic Sourcing and Enterprise Supplier Diversity for Disney. He delivered a concise but impactful 90-minute presentation on collaborating with the global giant, emphasizing the importance of understanding corporate culture and the inner workings of big businesses. “You can be sure we will be doing our research on you,” he remarked, reminding participants that preparation is key when approaching major corporations.
A Call for Collaboration
Another superb moment came from Jada Grandy Mock, Chief Community Impact Banking Officer, who encouraged entrepreneurs to think beyond competition. “A $100 million contract split between two companies is better than a $2 million contract for one company. Do the math,” she advised, motivating attendees to consider collaboration for shared success. Her words resonated deeply, inspiring many to rethink traditional business strategies.
Overall, the NMSDC Week in Atlanta was a monumental success, giving minority entrepreneurs a chance to connect, learn, and grow. As the conference came to a close, participants left with renewed motivation and a wealth of knowledge, ready to tackle the business world with fresh perspectives and strategies. And as they look toward the future, it’s clear that the spirit of innovation and collaboration will continue to thrive in Atlanta.
