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Venue: Auditorium A/B clear filter
Thursday, April 10
 

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

Building a Business with AI: A Smarter Strategy for Entrepreneurs and Investors
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:00pm - 3:10pm CDT
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
avatar for Justin Kaster

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

3:30pm CDT

Securing the Bag: Your Guide to Investor Research & Preparation
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Not all investors are the right fit for your startup. In this interactive 60-minute workshop, early-stage founders will learn how to identify investors who align with their mission, values, and business model. Attendees will gain practical tools for researching investors, organizing data rooms, and building relationships before the ask.
What You’ll Learn:
  • Defining your ideal investor profile
  • Finding investors through research and networking
  • Organizing your data room
  • Engaging with investors before fundraising
Speakers
avatar for Angel Even

Angel Even

CEO/Founder, Led by TRUTH
Angel Even is the Founder & CEO of Led by TRUTH, an organization that sprouted from an idea where diversity is celebrated, amplified, felt & seen by creating a cocoon of melanated support for Founders to be mentored by those who reflect their lived experience. By being focused on... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

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
 

8:30am 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

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

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

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

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

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
 
Saturday, April 12
 

9:00am CDT

OPENING REMARKS
Saturday April 12, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am 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 →
Saturday April 12, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am CDT
Auditorium A/B

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

Glow Up: Knowing Your Numbers
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Numbers matter in your business, but some are more meaningful than others, just ask any lender or investor. Profit and loss, income statement, cash flows, forecasting? Some of these numbers might seem intimidating, but they are essential to growing your business. These 'numbers' tell you about your business, help you make decisions, determine how to grow, and so much more. Master your business numbers and bring your questions on your financials. It will be helpful if you bring your Income Statement/Profit and Loss Statement, or Balance Sheet.
Speakers
avatar for Lonnia Jefferson

Lonnia Jefferson

Owner/CEO, Noir Arise Accounting LLC
 
Saturday April 12, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am 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

Credit Opens Doors: Debt as a Pathway to Growth
Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
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
avatar for Hal Reynolds

Hal Reynolds

CEO/Founder, DYGI
JC

Jonathan Cooper

Commercial Lender, Sunrise Bank
MJ

Margarita Jules

SBA Business Development Officer, First Bank & Trust
avatar for Briana Barnes

Briana Barnes

Parent, Community Action Ramsey & Washington Counties (CAPRW)
Saturday April 12, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Auditorium A/B

1:45pm CDT

CLOSING REMARKS + APPRECIATION CEREMONY
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm CDT
Saturday April 12, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm CDT
Auditorium A/B
 
2025 CI Summit: Capital Readiness Inside + Out
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