The NEXT GENERATION SUMMIT took place at the Tony Rand Student Center on Friday, May 10 bringing new and experienced entrepreneurs together for a chance to network and learn.
The Fayetteville Next Advisory Commission in partnership with Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) partnered together to assist participants in developing high-level strategies and addressing critical challenges in their business development or job search journeys.
The Summit was developed as part of the Fayetteville NEXT Advisory Commission’s key initiative goals for 2024.
The Summit began at 9 a.m. with a Workforce Development Session featuring a job readiness workshop led by area business advocates including Workforce Development Professional Xavier DeBrough. During his presentation DeBrough provided practical tips to apply when going for your next opportunity. Topics included focusing on areas such as first impressions, confidence and communication.
He also focused on the importance of networking as a potential and current business owner, and included a group exercise to demonstrate how you never know where your next key connection can come from.
Following a Munch & Mingle food truck picnic lunch hour, outside of the student center, summit attendees were welcomed back to a Business Strategy Panel Discussion Session.
Seven panelists composed of successful Fayetteville rooted entrepreneurs were able to give their insight as business owners on a number of business topics including finding a market for your business, the importance of networking, business operations and strategic planning, the biggest challenges they faced when starting their business and more.
Panelists included:
The panel was moderated by President and Executive Director of The Tulsa Initiative, Inc. Qu'Derrick R. Covington.
The Fayetteville Next Advisory Commission is established to attract, retain, and engage Fayetteville residents between the ages of 23 and 39. The Commission is dedicated to improving the quality of life for young adults through targeted event programming and community outreach initiatives, making Fayetteville a “desirable place to live, work and recreate” for this generation. Keep up with their mission and current events on their Facebook page here.
Editor's note: This article is still being developed. More still to come from Fayetteville NEXT event organizers.
Nikole (pictured) and Lakota Shawn began selling their meat at farmers markets and in an online store in 2024. Now, they’ve opened their first brick-and-mortar location. Photo by GFBJ.The Shawn family believes in quality, locally sourced food, and th
Tracey Jones-Brooks REALTOR®, ABR®, is eager to continue growing her business in Fayetteville, and a new office space is going to help make that dream a reality.
Winners of the inaugural pitch competition were Omega Air, Rebirth-Heart and Mind PLLC, Sprinkle Me Pink, LLC and Fedora Elite Mobile Cigar Experience. Following an event-packed weekend, four Fayetteville-based entrepreneurs were given a leg up
