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Thursday, April 10
 

12:00pm CDT

REGISTRATION & CHECK-IN
Thursday April 10, 2025 12:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Thursday April 10, 2025 12:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Rondo Dining Room

1:00pm CDT

BLESSING & OPENING REMARKS
Thursday April 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm CDT
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 →
Thursday April 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

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

2:00pm CDT

Network is Net Worth: Make and Grow Connections
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT
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
avatar for Marcus Styles

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

2:00pm CDT

Unlock Your Mind to Accelerate Business Growth
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT
What’s the #1 thought holding you back right now?
Success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about mindset. Are you leading from Fear—doubt, pressure, and survival? Or are you stepping into Soul Power—clarity, alignment, and purpose?
In this powerful session, Tess Vergara, creator of Soul Powered Leaders, will help you break free from fear-driven limitations and realign with the unshakable power of your soul.
You’ll walk away with a champion’s mindset, ready to lead your business with courage, authenticity, and unstoppable momentum.
Come ready to challenge your thinking and step into your next level of leadership—it all begins with the mind. Powered by Soul.
Speakers
avatar for Tess Vergara

Tess Vergara

Soul Powered Executive Coach, Soul Powered Leaders
Tess Vergara is the creator of Soul Powered Executive Coaching, helping executives and changemakers resolve the inner conflicts between mind and heart, soul and ego. She guides leaders toward unshakable confidence and a rock-solid foundation so they can fully step into Soul-Powered... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT
Auditorium C

4:45pm CDT

CLOSING REMARKS
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

5:00pm CDT

ConnectUP! Community Celebration & Reception
Thursday April 10, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm CDT
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
 
Friday, April 11
 

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

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

12:20pm 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

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
 
Saturday, April 12
 

9:15am CDT

KEYNOTE: Capitalization Journeys: Lived Experiences in Securing Funding
Saturday April 12, 2025 9:15am - 9:45am CDT
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
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 →
Speakers
avatar for Sabrina D. Jones

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 →
avatar for Meredith Englund

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 →
avatar for Charles Lovejoy

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

10:00am CDT

TABLE TALKS: Open forum conversation
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Start your own conversation!
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Auditorium A/B

11:50am CDT

Getting the Most of Your Coach or Mentor
Saturday April 12, 2025 11:50am - 12:25pm 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 →
Saturday April 12, 2025 11:50am - 12:25pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

12:30pm CDT

Cultivating Joy
Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
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
avatar for Nakara Forjé White

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

12:30pm CDT

TABLE TALKS: Open forum conversation
Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Start your own conversation!
Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Frogtown
 
2025 CI Summit: Capital Readiness Inside + Out
From $203.77
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