Diverse Entrepreneurship Summit

WRITTEN BY DAWN ANDERSON | COURTESY PHOTO

According to Diverse Entrepreneurship Summit (DES) Founder Cynthia Lee, the event’s aim is “providing access where access is often limited for minority businesses.” DES 2022 begins Friday, June 3, at the Speed Museum with a Vendor/Networking Fair from 4 to 8 pm. Saturday, June 4, is a full day of speakers and interactive workshops from 9 am to 4 pm. “DES is a specially curated experience specifically for minority businesses at every stage of their business.” Whether you have an established business or your vision is still in the idea phase, Lee encourages the minority business community to register and become involved.

DES meets the needs of diverse entrepreneurs in the current marketplace and equips them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in their business. “The goal of this year’s event is to provide as many resources as possible to as many minority businesses as possible in one location at one time,” says Lee. Her drive and partnerships have developed her “grassroots passion project” into a nationally recognized small business summit. “The event is the largest and most interactive of its kind in the region, with over 200 businesses engaged at one location.”

The featured speakers include national thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and wealth creators such as Keynote “She Did That.” filmmaker and producer Renae L. Bluitt and Main Stage Speaker Professor Lenny Williams. Workshop Speakers will address issues such as Business Valuation Tools, Concept to Brand, Marketing, Retail Growth, and Business Taxes Best Practices. DES will also include the VIP Fresh Bourbon Lounge, Virtual Motivators, and a Supply Chain Diversity Panel featuring UPS®, Yum! Brands, Greater Louisville Inc. (GLI), and Restaurant Supply Chain Solutions (RSCS).

Lee hopes attendees will find immediate solutions through DES 2022. “I expect they will take away something to use in their business the next day and incorporate it into daily use to add value. Expect to walk away recharged and ready to take your business to the next level!”

To purchase General Admission tickets, register as a vendor, or sign up to volunteer, visit desummit.org. Follow @DiverseEntrepreneurshipSummit on Facebook and Instagram.