2025 CI Summit: Capital Readiness Inside + Out: Full Schedule

1:20pm CDT

KEYNOTE: Get Ready, Stay Ready: How to ConnectUP!

Thursday April 10, 2025 1:20pm - 1:40pm CDT

Want to know how to make the most of your ConnectUP! experience? Learn from our esteemed alumni. They'll tell you tips on how to get what you need out of ConnectUP!

Speakers

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 →

Thursday April 10, 2025 1:20pm - 1:40pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

General Session

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

2:00pm CDT

Building a Business with AI: A Smarter Strategy for Entrepreneurs and Investors

Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT

Auditorium A/B

Every business faces uncertainty, but not all risks are equal. This session introduces a framework to help entrepreneurs prioritize the right challenges. Entrepreneurs and ESOs will gain a strategy for de-risking their businesses, while investors will learn how to apply these principles to evaluate new ventures and strengthen portfolios. We’ll also explore how AI-powered tools can simplify risk assessment and decision-making, providing actionable insights to navigate business uncertainties with confidence.

Speakers

Justin Kaster

Co Founder, Future North

Justin is a seasoned innovator and advisor with over 25 years of experience driving growth across corporate, startup, and investment landscapes. His passion lies in developing new products, businesses, and experiences that positively impact people's lives. Throughout his career, Justin... Read More →

Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

Entrepreneur, Ecosystem

Audience Entrepreneurs, Investors

2:00pm CDT

Network is Net Worth: Make and Grow Connections

Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT

Summit-University

We are shifting away from networking and toward connections. In this session, we will explore the difference between networking and connection, the benefits of building genuine relationships, how to create meaningful connections today, and how to nurture them over time.

Speakers

Marcus Styles

Business Connector, Heyven

I am a Business Connector and Brand Creator based in Minneapolis. My journey began with independently crafting branding for a variety of local businesses—from hairstylists to mortgage advisors—helping them establish a strong visual and strategic identity.In 2020, I expanded my... Read More →

Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT
Summit-University

General Session

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

3:30pm CDT

Leveraging the Power of Greater MN

Thursday April 10, 2025 3:30pm - 4:40pm CDT

Summit-University

Discover how to tap into the entrepreneurial ecosystem beyond the Twin Cities to build a more equitable, thriving statewide small business community. This panel explores the opportunities, resources, and collaborations driving Greater Minnesota’s economic growth. Hear from experts on how to bridge urban-rural divides, support diverse founders, and leverage regional strengths. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or ecosystem builder, learn how expanding beyond the metro can create lasting impact across the state.

Speakers

NeTia Bauman

CEO & President, Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation

NeTia joined the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation in July 2023 as the new CEO & President. In this role, she leads the organizations’ mission to provide inclusive and equitable economic development efforts throughout the greater St. Cloud region. She believes in fostering... Read More →

Mica L. Anders

Founder, Anders Genealogical Services

Mica is passionate about uncovering the rich, often overlooked stories of our past. With a focus on African American and Midwestern U.S. genealogy, she has worked with clients and organizations in the U.S., Canada, Jamaica, and the UK, bringing underrepresented stories to light. As... Read More →

Carl Crawford

Equity & Inclusion Specialist, St. Louis County

Scott Marquardt

President, Southwest Initiative Foundation

Scott’s professional career has been focused on rural community vitality and economic mobility. Since joining Southwest Initiative Foundation in 2007, he has managed the business finance, entrepreneurship, child care, career pathways and other economic development programs and... Read More →

Thursday April 10, 2025 3:30pm - 4:40pm CDT
Summit-University

Ecosystem

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

3:30pm CDT

Aligning Values and Investments: A Roadmap to Meaningful Impact

Thursday April 10, 2025 3:30pm - 4:40pm CDT

Frogtown

This presentation delves into the intersection of personal values and financial investments, highlighting how individuals can align their investment strategies with their core beliefs. It will explore impact investing, socially responsible investments, and other methods to support causes that matter. Participants will learn how to make informed decisions that reflect their values, while also pursuing financial growth. Whether you're new to investing or looking to refine your strategy, this session will provide actionable insights to guide your choices.

Speakers

Cindy Willard

Senior Director Capital Activation, Impact Charitable

Cindy believes the power of relationships and the intentionality of capital will create a more equitable world. She has deep experience as a Colorado thought leader in philanthropic strategy, grantmaking and program development.She began her career in journalism and community relations... Read More →

Thursday April 10, 2025 3:30pm - 4:40pm CDT
Frogtown

Investor/Source of Capital

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

5:00pm CDT

ConnectUP! Community Celebration & Reception

Thursday April 10, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT

Auditorium A/B

RSVP Required. Mark in your schedule if you are attending so we can be sure to order enough food and drinks!

Thursday April 10, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

General Session

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

8:30am CDT

WELCOME

Friday April 11, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am CDT

Auditorium A/B

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

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

9:20am CDT

Get Right: Empowering Entrepreneurs with Culturally Inspired Support

Friday April 11, 2025 9:20am - 10:45am CDT

Auditorium C

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

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

Ecosystem, Investor/Capital Source

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

10:50am CDT

Scale Smart: Growing Your Business Without Losing Your Foundation

Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT

Frogtown

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

Sarah Sengupta

Associate Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management, St. Cloud State University

Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT
Frogtown

Entrepreneur

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

10:50am CDT

Equity Under Fire: Navigating DEI Backlash in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Friday April 11, 2025 10:50am - 11:50am CDT

Auditorium C

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

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

General Session, Ecosystem

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Investors, Entrepreneurs

1:00pm CDT

Getting on Track: Building Business Credit

Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

Auditorium C

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

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

Entrepreneur

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

2:45pm CDT

Determining Your Investor Pathway

Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Summit-University

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

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

Entrepreneur

Audience Investors

2:45pm CDT

State of the Ecosystem

Friday April 11, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Auditorium C

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

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 →

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 →

Cihan Behlivan

Executive Director, BETA MN

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

General Session

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

4:10pm CDT

Innovations in Sustainability: The Impact of ConnectUP! Institute

Friday April 11, 2025 4:10pm - 4:45pm CDT

Auditorium A/B

Moderators

Y. Elaine Rasmussen

Founder/CEO, ConnectUP! Institute

Speakers

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

Ecosystem, Investor/Capital Source

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

9:15am CDT

KEYNOTE: Capitalization Journeys: Lived Experiences in Securing Funding

Saturday April 12, 2025 9:15am - 9:45am CDT

Auditorium A/B

Join seasoned entrepreneurs as they share candid insights on getting capital ready. Learn from their challenges, key lessons, and proven strategies for attracting investors and managing financial readiness. Whether you're preparing for your first raise or refining your approach, this session offers practical advice to navigate the capital-raising process with confidence.

Moderators

MoonShine Stylist

Founder & CEO, MoonShine Stylist LLC

Speakers

Sabrina D. Jones

CEO, SJC Body Love

SJC Body Love products are made for health and skin-conscious individuals who are tired of unknown ingredients, overpowering scents, and expensive multi- product routines. Our clean, minimal ingredient skincare is made from familiar plants and medicinal oils. Each formula has a natural... Read More →

Meredith Englund

Founder & Owner, Camperoni

Meredith is Founder and CEO of Camperoni, where our mission is to automate the administrative grunt work of parenting, starting with finding and registering for kids' camps, sports and activities. Meredith lives in Southwest Minneapolis with her husband and two kids ages 8 and 5... Read More →

Charles Lovejoy

CEO, Lovejoy's

Charles Lovejoy combines his extensive bartending experience with a passion for philanthropy. Inspired by his mother, Dr. Margaret Lovejoy, who founded a non-profit for homeless families, Charles supports local charities and youth homelessness initiatives. His dedication shines through... Read More →

Saturday April 12, 2025 9:15am - 9:45am CDT
Auditorium A/B

General Session

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

12:30pm CDT

Credit Opens Doors: Debt as a Pathway to Growth

Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Auditorium A/B

Debt is more than an obligation—it’s a tool for growth. This panel explores different types of credit, how to use them strategically, and why borrowing can strengthen financial stability. Experts will break down business lines of credit, personal loans, and common myths, offering actionable insights for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Whether you're scaling, investing, or navigating credit options, this session will help you turn debt into an opportunity.

Speakers

Hal Reynolds

CEO/Founder, DYGI

Jonathan Cooper

Commercial Lender, Sunrise Bank

Margarita Jules

SBA Business Development Officer, First Bank & Trust

Briana Barnes

Parent, Community Action Ramsey & Washington Counties (CAPRW)

Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

Ecosystem

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

12:30pm CDT

Cultivating Joy

Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Auditorium C

Using practical tools and tangible concepts, Cultivating Joy helps participants to better understand themselves and show up more present in the communities they serve, including their workplace. Through mindfulness techniques, movement and community building dialogue, this workshop is sure to equip and entertain.

Speakers

Nakara Forjé White

Founder, SWAGG (Super Women Achieving Great Goals)

I am an artist, entrepreneur and community organizer who centers wellness and Black girl joy in everything that I do. Through initiatives like the Healing for Hip Hop Lovers workshops and books, the #deependchallenge swim retreat, and the Black Girl Joy brand, my goal is to cultivate... Read More →

Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Auditorium C

General Session

Audience Ecosystem Partners, Entrepreneurs, Investors

2025 CI Summit: Capital Readiness Inside + Out

From $203.77