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Friday, April 11
 

8:00am CDT

BREAKFAST
Friday April 11, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Friday April 11, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Rondo Dining Room

8:00am CDT

REGISTRATION & CHECK-IN
Friday April 11, 2025 8:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Friday April 11, 2025 8:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Rondo Dining Room

8:30am CDT

WELCOME
Friday April 11, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am CDT
Friday April 11, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am CDT
Auditorium A/B

8:45am CDT

KEYNOTE: The Toxicity of Hustle Culture
Friday April 11, 2025 8:45am - 9:15am CDT
In recent years, hustle culture has become a popular mindset in the workplace and society. It promotes the idea of constantly being busy and working long hours as a way to achieve success and productivity. However, this mentality can have toxic effects on individuals and their mental health.
During this dynamic session, we will explore the harmful aspects of hustle culture and how it can lead to burnout, stress, and even physical health issues. We will also discuss the pressure to always be "on" and the negative impact it can have on work-life balance. Our panelists will share personal experiences with hustle culture and provide tips on how to set boundaries and prioritize self-care in a fast-paced environment. They will also offer insights on creating a healthier work culture that promotes productivity without sacrificing well-being.
Join us as we challenge the glorification of hustle culture and learn how to achieve success without compromising our mental and physical health.
Speakers
avatar for La Juana Whitmore

La Juana Whitmore

CEO, NextFemme Financial
La Juana is a Business Strategist and Accredited Small Business Consultant® who is passionate about helping businesses launch and grow! In addition to a 19-year career with Target in business analysis, architecture, and strategy consulting, she has advised hundreds of small firms... Read More →
avatar for Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Founder/CEO, ConnectUP! Institute
Y. Elaine Rasmussen is a B-Corp social entrepreneur mainstreaming impact investing and democratizing access to capital by and for Black and Brown womxn. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rasmussen has lived in St.Paul for the past 16 years. In 2015 Elaine founded Social Impact Strategies... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 8:45am - 9:15am CDT
Auditorium A/B

9:20am CDT

Get Right: Empowering Entrepreneurs with Culturally Inspired Support
Friday April 11, 2025 9:20am - 10:45am CDT
Unlock the power of culturally responsive support in empowering entrepreneurs! This session dives into how ESOs can prepare founders for capital through a culturally informed lens, exploring the 5Rs of rematriation and forging strategic partnerships with capital entrepreneurs. Gain insights on bridging cultural gaps and creating sustainable pathways for growth, ensuring that all entrepreneurs, especially those from underserved communities, have the tools they need to thrive in the business world.
Speakers
avatar for Jaime Gloshay

Jaime Gloshay

Managing Director of Impact Investments, Common Future
Jaime, a fierce advocate for economic justice, is the Managing Director of Impact Investments at Common Future, driving catalytic capital into community-rooted organizations.She co-developed the Justice Funders' Just Transition in Investment Framework and serves on the governing bodies... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 9:20am - 10:45am CDT
Auditorium C

9:20am CDT

Improving Capital Flows Empowering Community-Led ESOs to Drive Impact
Friday April 11, 2025 9:20am - 10:45am CDT
Join us for a candid discussion on the challenges facing the ESO community as funding sources shift away from support for organizations, particularly those led by Black and Brown leaders. As some ESOs face tough decisions, this fireside chat will explore how we can collaborate to sustain, scale, and grow these vital organizations. We’ll discuss strategies to maintain quality programming, identify new funding models, and share actionable solutions to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem statewide.
This session will explore how BIPOC-led Entrepreneurial Support Organizations (ESOs) are creating equitable investment pathways for overlooked communities. Discover strategies to address systemic capital barriers and foster supportive ecosystems, empowering BIPOC entrepreneurs to sustainably grow, innovate, and impact their communities.  
Speakers
avatar for Rob Cimperman

Rob Cimperman

Director, Launch MN
Rob brings a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation to his role as Launch Minnesota Director. In this role, he works to further build the innovation ecosystem in Minnesota by supporting the growth and acceleration of startups throughout the state.He also serves as an adjunct... Read More →
avatar for Deldelp Medina

Deldelp Medina

I’m a Thinker, Leader, and Speaker. Not necessarily in that order. I have worked on creating systems for equity in the startup ecosystems for the last nine years.Yes, Deldelp is a unique name. I am the daughter of painter Delfina Bernal and writer/historian Alvaro Medina. My name... Read More →
avatar for Benjamin J. Vann

Benjamin J. Vann

Founder & CEO, Impact Ventures
Benjamin J. Vann (Ben), is an award-winning social entrepreneur, impact investor, public speaker, and economic justice advocate. He is the Founder and CEO of Impact Ventures, a 501c3 startup accelerator and integrated capital fund with a mission to empower talented, yet underestimated... Read More →
avatar for Allie Burns

Allie Burns

CEO, Village Capital
Inspired by the opportunity to reinvent the way we back new ideas and support entrepreneurs who are creating a more equitable and sustainable world, Allie joined Village Capital in 2016, and was named CEO in January of 2019. In her role at VilCap, she’s responsible for overseeing... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 9:20am - 10:45am CDT
Auditorium A/B

9:20am CDT

Werk It: Perfecting Your Pitch
Friday April 11, 2025 9:20am - 10:45pm CDT
As an entrepreneur, one of the most important skills you need to master is perfecting your pitch to potential investors. Whether you're seeking funding for your startup or looking to secure additional investments for growth, being able to effectively communicate your business or business idea and its potential is key.
In this session, we will discuss the key components of a successful pitch and how to tailor it to different types of investors. We will cover tips on crafting a compelling elevator pitch, creating a strong value proposition, and using data and storytelling techniques to make your pitch more engaging.
Additionally, we will dive into the mindset of investors and what they are looking for in a pitch. Understanding their perspective can help you better prepare and present your ideas in a way that resonates with them.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Berg

Jessica Berg

Director of Business, Authentic
Friday April 11, 2025 9:20am - 10:45pm CDT
Frogtown

10:50am CDT

Money Talk: Pathways to Capital
Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT
Join us for a dynamic discussion on the fundamentals of capital and how to effectively utilize each type in your business. We will discuss the various sub-names used for each. Understanding these concepts is crucial for any business owner or entrepreneur, as it can greatly impact the success and growth of your company.
Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to start a new venture or a seasoned business owner seeking growth opportunities, this session is for you. Learn about the key differences between cash, debt, and equity and how to strategically use each one to achieve your financial goals. Don't miss out on this valuable opportunity to gain important knowledge and network with like-minded individuals.
Speakers
avatar for Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Founder/CEO, ConnectUP! Institute
Y. Elaine Rasmussen is a B-Corp social entrepreneur mainstreaming impact investing and democratizing access to capital by and for Black and Brown womxn. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rasmussen has lived in St.Paul for the past 16 years. In 2015 Elaine founded Social Impact Strategies... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT
Auditorium A/B

10:50am CDT

Scale Smart: Growing Your Business Without Losing Your Foundation
Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT
Is your business ready to scale? Growth brings opportunities—but also challenges. This interactive session covers key strategies, common pitfalls, and real-world case studies to help you expand sustainably. Gain practical tools to navigate scaling, avoid costly mistakes, and seize the right opportunities. We’ll also discuss unique obstacles entrepreneurs may face and how to overcome them. Walk away with actionable insights to build a strong foundation for lasting success. Join us and get ready to grow!
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Sengupta

Sarah Sengupta

Associate Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management, St. Cloud State University
Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT
Frogtown

10:50am CDT

Equity Under Fire: Navigating DEI Backlash in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT
As DEI initiatives face scrutiny and funding cuts, the impact on entrepreneurs—especially those from historically excluded communities—is undeniable. This session brings together thought leaders to discuss how these challenges affect Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs) and the broader ecosystem. We’ll explore the risks of rolling back DEI, strategies for sustaining equitable access, and solutions to help diverse founders thrive. Join us for a candid conversation on pushing forward in the face of resistance.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Oolman

Ashley Oolman

Equity Director of Operations, Minnesota Department of Human Services
Ashley (Storm) Oolman, Equity Director of Operations for the Department of Human Services, provides advisement and strategic direction to DHS operations senior leadership, division directors and staff, and oversees the integration of equity tools and strategies within core functions... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT
Auditorium C

12:00pm CDT

LUNCH
Friday April 11, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm CDT
Friday April 11, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm CDT
Rondo Dining Room

12:20pm CDT

KEYNOTE: Kitchens, Commerce, and Scaling: Commonwealth Kitchen A Case Study in Scaling Food Businesses
Friday April 11, 2025 12:20pm - 12:50pm CDT
In recent years, the food industry has seen a rise in new businesses and entrepreneurial ventures. However, many of these businesses struggle to grow and scale beyond their initial stages. Commonwealth Kitchen, a non-profit culinary incubator located in Boston, has been working to change this trend by providing resources and support for small food businesses to grow and thrive.

In this session, we will explore how Commonwealth Kitchen has successfully scaled multiple food businesses and helped them establish a strong presence in the market. We will hear from founders of these businesses as they share their journey of starting out as small local operations to now having a wider reach across the country.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn about the various resources offered by Commonwealth Kitchen such as kitchen space, business development, and more. 

Another session will follow-on how ConnectUP and CommonWealth Kitchen are working together to bring their model to Saint Paul.

Speakers
avatar for Jen Faigel

Jen Faigel

Executive Director, Commonwealth Kitchen
CommonWealth Kitchen is greater Boston's only non-profit food business incubator and contract manufacturing social enterprise. We promote small business, create jobs, and strengthen our regional food economy, with a focus on working with people who have been impacted by racial, social... Read More →
avatar for Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Founder/CEO, ConnectUP! Institute
Y. Elaine Rasmussen is a B-Corp social entrepreneur mainstreaming impact investing and democratizing access to capital by and for Black and Brown womxn. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rasmussen has lived in St.Paul for the past 16 years. In 2015 Elaine founded Social Impact Strategies... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 12:20pm - 12:50pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

1:00pm CDT

Exploring Entrepreneurship through Acquisition
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
As retiring baby boomers sell profitable businesses with $500K+ annual cashflows and no interested heirs, entrepreneurs can seize the opportunity to acquire and run these businesses. This wealth-building model, supported by social impact groups, offers underrepresented entrepreneurs a less risky path to ownership through cashflow-driven financing, along with demystified technical training and support. Hear from an entrepreneur who has navigated the acquisition process, sharing firsthand perspective on overcoming challenges and unlocking growth potential.
Speakers
avatar for Leah Goldsmith-Moses

Leah Goldsmith-Moses

Founder (retired), The Improve Group
Hi Entrepreneur: founded, built, and transitioned a successful consulting companyBusiness coach & facilitator: helping entrepreneurs and business leaders be at their best and build their businessesWriter: sharing stories of life and leadershipCreator: welcoming new adventures and... Read More →
avatar for Havell Rodrigues

Havell Rodrigues

CEO & Managing Partner, New Majority Capital
Havell Rodrigues is CEO and Managing Partner of New Majority Capital, where he leads deal structuring, financing and portfolio management.HavelI is a veteran of the asset management industry. He served as a Portfolio Manager for $50M in aum in internal hedge fund-of-funds at Venus... Read More →
avatar for Channon Lemon

Channon Lemon

Owner & Operator, Intent Energy
Channon has been driving innovation, spearheading organizational change, and leading economic development and new business development initiatives for over two decades. An accomplished business executive delivering profitable growth in challenging, competitive, and regulated environments... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

1:00pm CDT

Getting on Track: Building Business Credit
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Strong business credit is key to unlocking funding and growth opportunities. In this session, you’ll learn the essential steps to establish, improve, and leverage business credit. Discover practical strategies to separate personal and business finances, build a solid credit profile, and access the resources you need to scale your business with confidence.
Speakers
avatar for Tawonda Burks

Tawonda Burks

Owner, Elocina, LLC
Tawonda is the Owner and Publisher of RWM and leader of ELOCINA. Her personal mission is to spread financial literacy, empowering individuals with knowledge to make informed economic decisions.
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Auditorium C

1:00pm CDT

Mission Possible: Legal Challenges You Can Navigate Without a Lawyer
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Early-stage entrepreneurs face a myriad of legal challenges as they build their businesses, but financial constraints largely preclude them from seeking costly legal advice. Through an examination of common legal pitfalls and best practices, participants will be equipped with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to identify and address the legal issues present in their businesses. Participants will leave feeling more confident in their ability to navigate potential risks, safeguard their interests, and lay a solid foundation for future growth and investment opportunities.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Zechmann

Andrea Zechmann

CEO/Founder, Levelrie
Andrea is the founder of Levelrie, the Spotify of Fashion. She holds a JD from Hamline Law and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Before starting Levelrie, Andrea worked in International GTM at Tesla and Rivian.  
avatar for Ann Vanga

Ann Vanga

General Counsel, Yardstik
Ann Vanga is a seasoned legal executive with 15 years of experience helping businesses navigate complex legal and compliance challenges. Throughout her career, she has been a strategic business partner, delivering practical, solution-oriented legal advice to drive growth, mitigate... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Frogtown

2:45pm CDT

Partnering for Growth: Collaboration and Innovation in Co-Manufacturing and Co-Packing
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Unlock the potential of collaboration in co-manufacturing and co-packing to take your food business to the next level. This panel will explore how entrepreneurs can build successful partnerships with manufacturers and packagers to scale production, boost efficiency, and drive innovation. Panelists will also highlight funding opportunities and resources available to food entrepreneurs. Learn strategies for navigating the supply chain, ensuring quality control, and overcoming challenges to fuel growth and strengthen your operations.  
Moderators
avatar for Bryant Williams

Bryant Williams

CEO, Hardcore Peanut Butter
Speakers
avatar for Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Founder/CEO, ConnectUP! Institute
Y. Elaine Rasmussen is a B-Corp social entrepreneur mainstreaming impact investing and democratizing access to capital by and for Black and Brown womxn. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rasmussen has lived in St.Paul for the past 16 years. In 2015 Elaine founded Social Impact Strategies... Read More →
avatar for Jen Faigel

Jen Faigel

Executive Director, Commonwealth Kitchen
CommonWealth Kitchen is greater Boston's only non-profit food business incubator and contract manufacturing social enterprise. We promote small business, create jobs, and strengthen our regional food economy, with a focus on working with people who have been impacted by racial, social... Read More →
avatar for Brian McDonald

Brian McDonald

District Director, SBA
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Frogtown

2:45pm CDT

Building Your Capital Readiness: From Inner Mastery to Investment Success
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
In this session, we would tackle both the inner and outer strategy of raising outside investment such as angel funding or venture capital. We'll talk about things like should you raise capital, what type of options are there for investment capital and how do you best prepare yourself psychologically and tactically for success.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Rich

Stephanie Rich

Head of Platform, Bread & Butter Ventures
Stephanie Rich is Partner, Platform at B&B where she works to add continuous value to portfolio companies and founders. She is the former Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Techstars Farm to Fork Accelerator in partnership with Cargill and Ecolab. Steph has worked with numerous early stage... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

2:45pm CDT

Determining Your Investor Pathway
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Determining the right investment pathway can be overwhelming for new investors. This session will guide you through the various models of investment, from angel investing to venture capital and beyond. We’ll explore the key differences, risks, and rewards of each approach, helping you assess which model aligns with your goals and resources. Whether you're looking to start small or dive into larger opportunities, this session will provide clarity to help you confidently navigate your investment journey.
Speakers
avatar for Ava Najafi

Ava Najafi

Product Operations Manager, Groove Capital
I currently work as a Product Operations Manager at Groove Capital where I work on developing systems and processes that enhance existing models and managing investor engagement and operations within the local ecosystem.I am passionate about creative problem-solving using critical... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Summit-University

2:45pm CDT

Getting the Most of Your Coach or Mentor
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
A great mentor or coach can be a game-changer—but only if you know how to maximize the relationship. In this session, you'll learn how to set clear goals, communicate effectively, and take actionable steps to get the most value from your mentor or coach. Whether you're seeking guidance or already working with a mentor, this session will help you turn insights into impact.
Speakers
avatar for MoonShine Stylist

MoonShine Stylist

Founder & CEO, MoonShine Stylist LLC
Makeisha Hall is a dynamic leader whose unique career blends over 20 years of strategic systems engagement with a lifelong passion for fashion.With extensive expertise in facilitation and relationship management, she has guided community change through her work with organizations... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Auditorium C

2:45pm CDT

State of the Ecosystem
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Join us for an insightful overview of today’s dynamic landscape. In this session, experts will unpack the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the ecosystem. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or community leader, you'll gain a clear understanding of where the ecosystem stands—and how to navigate its future developments.
Speakers
avatar for Meg Steuer

Meg Steuer

Executive Director, Minnestar
Meg Steuer is the Executive Director of Minnestar, where she leads efforts to build, nurture, and engage Minnesota’s vibrant tech community. With a passion for fostering connections and championing innovation, Meg brings years of experience in community building, economic development... Read More →
avatar for Natalie Volin Lehr

Natalie Volin Lehr

Head of Government and Community Affairs, Carlson
Natalie Volin Lehr has extensive experience in government affairs, political campaigns, public policy, coalition building, corporate philanthropy, and community relations. In her current role at Carlson, Natalie leads the company’s community and government relations, as well as... Read More →
avatar for Cihan Behlivan

Cihan Behlivan

Executive Director, BETA MN
avatar for Kathy Tune

Kathy Tune

Managing Partner, CAPITA3
Co-Founder and Board Chair of Marani Health, Managing Partner at Capita3, a health care venture firm investing in women leading the next innovation super cycle at the intersection of Deep Tech and Health. Kathleen is a proven healthcare executive with over 25 years of investing and... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Auditorium C

4:10pm CDT

Innovations in Sustainability: The Impact of ConnectUP! Institute
Friday April 11, 2025 4:10pm - 4:45pm CDT


Moderators
avatar for Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Founder/CEO, ConnectUP! Institute
Y. Elaine Rasmussen is a B-Corp social entrepreneur mainstreaming impact investing and democratizing access to capital by and for Black and Brown womxn. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rasmussen has lived in St.Paul for the past 16 years. In 2015 Elaine founded Social Impact Strategies... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for MoonShine Stylist

MoonShine Stylist

Founder & CEO, MoonShine Stylist LLC
Makeisha Hall is a dynamic leader whose unique career blends over 20 years of strategic systems engagement with a lifelong passion for fashion.With extensive expertise in facilitation and relationship management, she has guided community change through her work with organizations... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 4:10pm - 4:45pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

4:45pm CDT

CLOSING REMARKS
Friday April 11, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
Friday April 11, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
Auditorium A/B
 
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