Join us for a dynamic half-day business conference for small business owners and entrepreneurs at every stage!

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this event will equip you with the insights and strategies you need to thrive. Our expert-led sessions will cover essential topics like leveraging AI for business growth, securing capital, mastering marketing, scaling efficiently, and creating a powerful vision for long-term success.

Beyond the training, you’ll have the opportunity to network with like-minded business owners, exchange ideas, and build valuable connections that can help propel your business forward. Don’t miss this chance to gain actionable knowledge and expand your network—register today!

Agenda

12:00 PM – Doors Open

12:30 PM – 2 PM – Lunch Panel

• Leveraging AI for Small Businesses

  • Artificial intelligence is no longer just for big tech—it’s transforming how small businesses operate, compete, and grow. In this insightful panel discussion, AI experts, entrepreneurs, and tech innovators will explore how small business owners can use AI to streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and make data-driven decisions without a massive budget or in-house tech team. Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or already using tools like automation, chatbots, or predictive analytics, this session will help you navigate the fast-changing AI landscape with confidence and clarity.

  • Panelists: Greg Frank, Michael Pritchard, Daleele Alison, Hope Lawrence

2:00PM – 2:15PM – Break

2:15 PM – 3:15 PM – Breakout Session 1

• Access to Capital

  • Access to capital remains one of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—for entrepreneurs at every stage. In this dynamic breakout session, you’ll hear from a panel of financial experts and funders who will demystify the landscape of small business financing. Learn about angel investing, local funding programs, CDFIs (Community Development Financial Institutions), and traditional banking—along with when and how to approach each option. Whether you’re launching your first venture, looking to grow sustainably, or simply want to better understand your financial toolkit, this session will provide actionable insights to help you make informed, strategic decisions about funding.

  • Presenters: Jay Lester, Carolina Medina, and Bryan Thomas
• The Scale Up Process

  • You’ve built a solid foundation—now what? Scaling a small business requires more than just working harder; it demands strategic planning, systems thinking, and the ability to adapt without losing your core identity. In this breakout session, you will leave with the knowledge of what it really takes to move from start-up to scale-up. Through real-world examples and practical advice, you’ll learn how to identify the right time to scale, avoid common pitfalls, and build the infrastructure your business needs to grow with intention.

  • Presenter: Matt Rohdie

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Breakout Session 2

• Maximize Marketing Dollars

  • Marketing doesn’t have to mean massive budgets. For small businesses, the key is making every dollar count—by being strategic, creative, and data-driven. In this breakout session, experts will share proven tactics for reaching the right audience, building brand loyalty, and generating results without breaking the bank. Whether you’re managing marketing solo or leading a small team, this session will equip you with practical tools to stretch your budget and amplify your impact.

  • Presenter: Scott Hamler
• Creating a Vision for Your Team

  • Behind every successful team is a clear, compelling vision—and a leader who knows how to communicate it. In this panel discussion, seasoned entrepreneurs and leadership experts will explore how to craft a meaningful vision and align your team around it. From startups to growing businesses, clarity of purpose is essential for driving performance, building culture, and navigating change. Join us for an honest conversation about what it takes to be a visionary leader—one who inspires trust, fosters alignment, and keeps teams moving forward with confidence.

  • Panelists: Chef Antwon Brinson, Ashley Marshall, David Corbin

4:30 PM – Networking

6:00 PM – Piedmont Pitch Competition

Early Bird Tickets until April 30th – $15

Ticket price goes up May 1st – $20

Co Sponsors – City of Charlottesville Office of Economic Development and Albemarle County Economic Development

Register here