Future Rich Aunties (FRA), a Fayetteville-based network for female business leaders, works to empower minority- and women-owned businesses and support economic growth throughout the region.

Future Rich Aunties gives members access to biweekly webinars, monthly networking events and business development resources, including assistance securing Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) certification, a key designation for accessing government contracting opportunities. “This is something that Fayetteville has never seen before—the sisterhood we have formed,” said Sylvia S. Glanton, founder of Future Rich Aunties.

The organization also serves as a hub for business referrals, connecting women entrepreneurs to new clients and opportunities. 

“In business, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, but a good network gives you a strong foundation to fall back on,” Glanton said. “We refer from within and our active referral network has built its credibility and authority.” 

From April 11-12, 2025, FRA is holding its fourth annual Business Summit at Blissful Alchemist, located at 414 Ray Ave. in Fayetteville. As part of the two-day event, registered attendees can compete for cash prizes at FRA’s first-ever pitch competition. 

“This is the fourth year of the summit, and we try to do something new and exciting every year to keep people guessing,” Glanton noted. The summit will feature a panel discussion with leaders in government contracting, including Nicole Outlaw of NCGrowth, Carla Daniels of NC State University, and Camille Little, a former HUB certification specialist. Jelissa Thomas, President of D3 Delivery, will kick off Day 2 of the summit.

“I wanted to connect expert panelists with business leaders in the community to talk about workforce development, foster new partnerships and map out business development ideas,” Glanton explained. “It’s not a cookie-cutter way of doing business. It’s really based on sharing experience.”

Judging criteria for the pitch competition will evaluate business innovation, operational structure, business model viability and technology integration. The top three finalists will be awarded cash prizes of $1,000, $500 and $250, along with business support services. 

“The winning pitch contestants can use the prize funds to jumpstart their businesses and enjoy the free perks of a branding photo shoot and tax planning services,” Glanton said. “We want to help them see their vision all the way through.”

Finalists selected for the pitch competition must submit a final pitch deck by April 1, 2025, and attend the summit in person. Leading up to the event, finalists will receive individualized coaching from experienced FRA members to refine their presentations.

Tickets for the Future Rich Aunties Business Summit are available for purchase, with an early registration discount code (GETINTHEROOM15) valid through April 7, 2025. Registration for the summit includes membership in FRA. More details, including pitch competition guidelines and membership information, can be found at www.futurerichaunties.com.