ABOUT THIS YEAR'S EVENT
National Entrepreneurs Association and AYURS present the 2025 NEA Entrepreneur Summit Friday April 11th from 8am to 12pm at the University of Maryland. Join us for an exclusive event designed for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to accelerate growth and boost profits. Discover powerful strategies to expand your client base, automate your operations, and optimize efficiency—all without adding a lot of extra costs. Get expert insights on the latest technology, marketing strategies, funding options, and key resources to take your business to the next level.
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FRIDAY APRIL 11, 2025 FROM 8AM TO 12PM AT UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND - ALUMNI CENTER
*Conference registration is $97. Includes breakfast. Parking is available in the Stadium Drive Garage.
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2025 Entrepreneur Summit Confirmed Speakers
Kickoff Speaker: Dr. ZaLonya Allen
President of National Entrepreneurs Association & Business Psychologist
Topic: Think Like an Entrepreneur: Overcoming Mental Barriers to Success
Dr. ZaLonya Allen is President/CEO of the National Entrepreneurs Association. She has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years. As a Professional Speaker and Trainer specializing in entrepreneurship and leadership development, she has delivered hundreds of talks for organizations throughout the country and coaches professionals in a variety of industries. Dr. Allen has been speaking nationally about the entrepreneur mindset for over 10 years. She earned a Bachelors in Psychology & Sociology from the University of Michigan, a Masters in Industrial Relations from Wayne State University and a Doctorate in Psychology with honors from North Central University. She became an educator in 2002 teaching business and psychology courses. Using the principles of psychology, Dr. Allen helps clients master their mindset.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit, you'll uncover the key strategies to break through the mental barriers that hold most entrepreneurs back. Learn transformative techniques to unlock your full potential and achieve a breakthrough like never before. Watch your confidence soar and see your goals become more reachable than ever!
Keynote Speaker: Rodney C. Burris
Corporate Trainer | EI Expert | Whitehouse Correspondent
Scaling for the Future: Recognizing Your Window of Opportunity!
Rodney C. Burris is one of the nation's top leaders in unlocking human potential and inspiring organizations to greatness. He is the Chief Learning Officer for Pinnacle Advisory Services. As a White House Correspondent, his extensive portfolio of satisfied clients includes powerhouses like Fiat-Chrysler Corporation, the Federal Department of Education, and the Washington DC Business District. In addition to his hands-on training, Rodney has authored a best-selling book on emotional intelligence, topping Amazon's charts in three categories. He is an incredible catalyst for Emotional Intelligence Training and Empowerment. Mr. Burris holds a BA in Psychology from the Johns Hopkins University as well as a MS in Nonprofit Management.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Rodney will motivate you to take action during this critical period in history when entrepreneurs and small business owners have the greatest opportunity for advancement.
AI Trainer: Christine Nabria Brogdon
Business Growth Expert | AI Consultant | Mrs. Baltimore
The AI Blueprint: How to Scale & Dominate Without Limits
Christine Nabria Brogdon is an expert business consultant certified through the US Institute of Diplomacy & Human Rights. She specializes in AI business solutions, strategic planning, software development, branding, and global marketing. As the founder and lead organizer of TEDx Reisterstown, Christine champions community empowerment and provides a global platform for leaders making a difference. She is a mentor, strategist & creator Under the Kingdom Business Unlimited umbrella—which includes Royalty Designs Pro and Kingdom Business Accelerator. She is one half of the visionary behind BEN TV, a founder of her own streaming service, where she’s developed the tv network across all platforms including Roku, Fire TV, and others. Through her innovative work, Christine is redefining industry standards and inspiring transformative change in the business world. ​
At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Christine will show you how to use AI tools to scale your business quickly. You'll learn practical strategies for incorporating AI into various aspects of your operations from automating routine tasks to enhancing marketing.​
Michael Davis
Ministry in the Marketplace & Sr Acct Executive at Radio One (Panel Moderator)​
Elder Michael Davis was born to a military family and grew up traveling. He is currently Sr. Acct Executive at Radio One Inc. and Host of Ministry in the Market Place on Praise 106.1FM. The show focuses on helping believers use their gifts, talents, and abilities for the Glory of God. He has worked for more than 22 years in Christian and secular Radio in Baltimore, Maryland. Michael graduated from Heidelberg high school in Heidelberg Germany then ventured off to Florida A&M University where he received a BS in public administration, also minoring in military science. While participating in the ROTC program; Michael was commissioned as reserve United States army officer. After officer basic course in Indianapolis, Indiana, he lived in the Maryland area and later married the lovely Tonya Mclendon. They have four children. His adopted Mantra from the late Dr. Myles Munroe is “You haven’t been employed…But deployed” for such a time as this. “Don’t die old…Die empty”of everything God has put in you.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Michael Davis will lead a panel of seasoned entrepreneurs discussing how to scale in 2025.
Clement Troutman
Speaker, Author and Top Tropical Smoothie Franchise Owner
Clement Troutman is a top Tropical Smoothie Cafe franchisee and Navy Veteran. He and his family: Jackie, Jocelyn, and Jordan, represent The Troutman Alliance and have been serving the community of Capitol Heights, Maryland and surrounding DMV for 8-years. In addition to providing better-for-you food options, they also bring job opportunities to underserved communities. His first café is the brand’s #1 highest-producing café nationwide. Over 3 million served and over seven hundred workers employed during an 8-year period. Their second location is in Bowie, Vista Gardens. Clément’s leadership and managerial philosophy centers around developing strong community relationships while helping staff to reach their full potential. Dedicated to community outreach, he serves as Executive Board Treasurer of Mission of Love Charities, Inc., a non-profit organization that feeds the hungry throughout the DMV. As a brand ambassador, he served as TV spokesperson during the Washington, DC NBC4 Food 4 Families Food Drive that fed over four thousand families.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Clement Troutman will share how he is successfully scaling his businesses and restuarants.
Dr. Ebony Grey
Certified Mentor Washington DC SCORE Chapter
Dr. Ebony Grey is a passionate advocate for veterans and military spouses transitioning to civilian life. She is a dedicated Mentor for SCORE DC and Co-Chair of Outreach. With 25 years of federal government experience, she is a Cybersecurity Professional, AI Strategist, Workforce Trainer, Senior Policy Analyst and Government Contracting Consultant. She is a proud Air Force veteran! As CEO of Greys Consulting Group, she focuses on Employment, Economic Development, and Entrepreneurship. Dr. Grey holds a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship and Business from Trinity International University of Ambassadors, and an MBA, and Master's Certificates from George Washington University. She has a B.S. in Information Systems from Strayer University. She is a Certified Federal Job Search Trainer® and Career Coach®, and coaches executives and entrepreneurs as an Associate Certified Coach for the International Coach Federation. Her accolades include the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and Innovator of the Year by NextGen of Government Public Service. She is the bestselling author of "A Guide to Unlocking Federal Employment.”
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Dr. Ebony Grey will discuss free mentoring services and other programs offered by SCORE to help business owners grow their businesses.
Are you looking for new ways to scale your business? Attend the 2025 NEA Entrepreneur Summit and learn proven strategies from experienced entrepreneurs and professionals.
Event Highlights
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Dynamic Keynote Speakers
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Powerful Panel Discussions
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Networking Opportunities
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Business Resources
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Exhibitors/Vendors
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Breakfast Buffet
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Giveaways and more
2024 NEA Entrepreneur Conference
Entrepreneur Summit Agenda
07:30am to 08:15am - Registration and Breakfast
08:15am to 08:30am - Kickoff Speaker
Dr. ZaLonya Allen
President of National Entrepreneurs Association
Think Like an Entrepreneur: Overcoming Mental Barriers to Success
08:30am to 09:15am - AI Training Session
Christine Nabria Brogdon
Business Growth Expert | AI Consultant | Mrs. Baltimore
The AI Blueprint: How to Scale & Dominate Without Limits
09:15am to 09:30am - Networking Break
09:30am to 10:15am - Panel Discussion
Michael Davis (Moderator)
Ministry in the Marketplace Host | Senior Acct Exec at Radio One
Expert Insights on Scaling Your Business
Tara A'Daora, Clement Troutman, Dr. Nicole Sergeant, Halle Williams
10:15am to 10:30am - Networking Break
10:30am to 11:15am - Panel Discussion
Van Allen (Moderator)
Professional Speaker & Founder of Van Allen Productions
Entrepreneur & Small Business Resources to Scale
Panelists: Hope Brown, Dr. Ebony Grey, Karen Brown, Dr. Janet Little
11:15am to 12:00pm - Keynote Speaker
Rodney C. Burris
Corporate Trainer | EI Expert | Whitehouse Correspondent
Scaling for the Future: Recognizing Your Window of Opportunity!
12:00pm to 12:30pm - Open Networking
2023 NEA Entrepreneur Conference
SESSION DESCRIPTIONS
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​Think Like an Entrepreneur: Overcoming Mental Barriers to Success
Speaker: ZaLonya Allen, PhD President of National Entrepreneurs Association & Business Psychologist
Summary: Pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams will take you on an amazing journey filled with both ups and downs. Your thinking will ultimately determine the results you get. Do you think like an entrepreneur? During this session, you'll learn about common mental barriers to success and discover powerful strategies to overcome them and boost confidence.
​Key Takeaways:
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A deeper understanding of entrepreneur mindset
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Ability to recognize and break through mental barriers
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Proven strategies to quickly increase confidence
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​​The AI Blueprint: How to Scale & Dominate Without Limits
Speaker: Christine Nabria Brogdon, Business Growth Expert and AI Consultant
Summary: AI has revolutionized business growth and expansion efforts. Business owners are using AI to analyze data, create content, market, automate, improve customer service and more. Learn how integrating AI tools into your business can drive growth and reduce cost.
​Key Takeaways:
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How business owners use AI to scale
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Using AI for content creation
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Best AI Tools for Small Business
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How to use AI to dominate in your industry
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​Panel Discussion: Expert Insights on Scaling Your Business in 2025
Summary: Join our panel of experienced entrepreneurs and professionals as they discuss the challenges of scaling a business in 2025 and offer actionable solutions based on forecasting and personal experiences.
Key Takeaways:
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Expert advice drawn from real-world experience.
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Resources to enhance your current efforts.
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Effective marketing and social media strategies.
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Insights on funding and financial planning.
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Panel Discussion: Entrepreneur & Small Business Resources to Scale
Summary: Did you know that there are numerous organizations and businesses that offer free and/or affordable assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners. Get an in-depth look at who offers what and how you can take advantage of these services that will help you scale your business more efficiently.
Key Takeaways:
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Learn how to access resources for your business.
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Explore traditional and non-traditional funding options
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Meet with resource providers in person.
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Get answers to your questions
Scaling for the Future: Recognizing Your Window of Opportunity
Summary: The "window of opportunity" is a critical period such as this where the timing is ideal to take action and make significant progress in growth, innovation and expansion. Learn how to strategically expand your business and take advantage of market trends, technological advancements and customer demands.
Key Takeaways:
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EI and what is required emotionally to continue growth.
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How to build the right team to support your growth efforts.
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How to avoid creating instability due to premature scaling.
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Overcoming procrastination and other bad habits
Dr. Nicole Sergeant
Creator of Morgan Taylor Scrubbs
Dr. Nicole Sergeant (Dr. Nikki) is the innovator and President of Freckled LLC. A licensed physical therapist in DC and Maryland, she proudly embraces her Spanish and West Indian heritage. A Brooklyn native, she noticed the need for clothes that complement curvier figures while working in retail. Inspired by her late mother, a dedicated nurse, Dr. Nikki created Morgan Taylor Scrubs (MTS) to offer stylish and comfortable scrubs for women of all shapes and sizes. She also launched a functional and appealing men’s scrub line. Dr. Nikki believes that looking and feeling good enhances the quality of care provided by medical professionals. A portion of MTS proceeds is donated to cancer research, honoring her mother’s legacy. Dr. Nikki holds degrees from Stony Brook University (B.A. in Psychology), Howard University (M.S. in Physical Therapy), and Alabama State University (Doctorate in Physical Therapy).
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​At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Dr. Nicole Sergeant will share how she is scaling her business along with greatest challenges and solutions.
Hope Brown
Financial Consultant and Founder
of The Tax Minded Bookkeeper
Hope Brown, MSA, is a QuickBooks ProAdvisor Bookkeeper, Tax Practitioner, and Business Financial Consultant. As the founder of The Tax Minded Bookkeeper®, she is dedicated to helping small businesses increase their productivity and reach their financial goals. With a deep passion for supporting entrepreneurs, Hope provides expert services in bookkeeping, tax strategy, and comprehensive financial management. In addition to her consulting work, Hope hosts the Beyond the Receipts podcast, where she shares essential insights on bookkeeping, tax strategies, and financial resources to help small business owners stay compliant and grow their businesses. Hope and her firm were recently recognized as a "Top 25 Up-N-Coming QuickBooks ProAdvisor Award Recipient for 2024" by Insightful Accountant, a testament to her dedication and work in the accounting and small business financial management space.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Hope Brown will share the best tax strategies for your business along with information that can help you reach your financial goals faster.
Dr. Janet Little
Physician|Resilience Coach|International Speaker
Dr. Janet Little, affectionately known as Dr. Jan, is a physician, trauma-informed resilience coach, and international speaker dedicated to helping high performing professionals reclaim their power without sacrificing well-being. As a physician leader who has overseen 75+ healthcare professionals, she has firsthand experience navigating the high-stakes world of leadership and burnout. After her own transformative journey, Dr. Jan founded Optimal Vitality MD, LLC, blending neuroscience, medicine, and personal development to empower individuals and organizations. A Lisa Nichols Certified Transformational Trainer and Lodestar Trauma Informed Professional Coach, she equips professionals with the mindset, skills, and strategies to rise from overwhelm into sustainable success. Her commitment to reshaping how professionals approach stress and resilience earned her recognition as one of the Top Women Leaders to Watch in 2025 by Voices of Change Magazine. Dr. Jan is redefining success, proving that high achievement and well-being can coexist.
At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Dr. Janet Little will discuss how she empowers professionals to break free from cycles of exhaustion and step into a life of vitality, confidence, and impact.
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Van Allen
Professional Speaker, Investor and Founder of Van Allen Productions (Panel Moderator)
Van Allen is a former Ford Motor Co employee, investor and lifelong entrepreneur. He began his career in investing over 25 years ago. His primary investments include real estate and blue chip stocks as well as numerous entrepreneurial ventures. He is an award winning motivational speaker and former cable talk show host who received numerous speaking awards including first place in the District 28 World Championship of Public Speaking Contest for Toastmasters International. His signature presentation “Are You a Winner” encourages audiences to step out of their comfort zone to reach their true potential. He attended Henry Ford Community College and Wayne State University. He is a Master NLP Practitioner and founder of Van Allen Productions. He is also a mindset trainer for the nationally acclaimed NEA Comerica Entrepreneur Bootcamp and Certification Program.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Van Allen will lead a panel of professionals who provide valuable resources and services to help entrepreneurs succeed.
Halle Williams
Founder/CEO of Right Next Door
Hallie Williams is Founder and CEO of Right Next Door, a franchise brokerage firm, with more than 20 years of experience in economic and community development. Hallie’s franchising experience includes providing consulting and coaching that equips entrepreneurs aspiring to own a franchise; guiding entrepreneurs through the process of selecting and investing in established or emerging franchises; and managing strategic partnership with a network of over 450 national franchise brands in commercial, retail, industrial, entertainment, education, and professional service industries. Hallie is a Certified Franchise Broker, Certified Loan Broker, Certified Project Management Professional, and Certified Ice House Entrepreneurial Mindset Facilitator. He graduated with B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from A. James Clark School of Engineering and an MBA from Howard University. In February 2023, Hallie was featured in the Franchise Journal promoting corporate sustainability through franchising.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Hallie Williams will share how he helps business owners with franchises and financing.
Tara T. A'Daora
Founder/CEO of AYURS Batch of Nature
Tara T. A'Daora is a Certified Trichologist & Hair Loss Practitioner and has been in the industry for over 12 years while experiencing hair loss of her own 10 yrs ago. She is the Founder & CEO of Ayur’s Batch of Nature, LLC., an Ayurveda Beauty Brand that hand-crafts healthy, ayurveda all-natural and organic products, one batch at a time. As a natural, Tara tried many products on her own natural hair that were loaded with harsh chemicals and ingredients and they did not treat the underlying issue of hair loss, so she began researching and experimenting with 100% pure, natural ingredients & herbs and began creating recipes that resulted in a God-Given formula specifically targeted for dryness, breakage, baldness, alopecia, hair trauma & due to aging hair, hormonal changes, chemo/radiation treatments, thyroid issues, medicines and other conditions. Hence, Ayur's Batch of Nature was born, producing, manufacturing, and distributing over 1,500 products per month. Her #1 selling Clinical Collection (alopecia bundle) are sold in Macy’s, Beauty Supply Stores and Salons nationwide. She is also an Author of 'Journeying through Life Holistically and is a national speaker, STEM Educator & business mentor to help business owners expand. ​
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Tara will share the resources she is using to grow her hair care line.
Karen Brown
Solution Strategist & Business Coach
Karen A. Brown, Founder and CEO of One Karen Brown, hails from Northern Virginia. She is called a connector of generations, from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, helping them find common ground to move their dreams, plans, and businesses forward. She defied her parents' expectations, who did not support or believe in her dream, and pursued higher education, becoming the first college graduate in her family. This decision began a remarkable journey filled with resilience and determination. Overcoming early adversities, Karen's unwavering drive propelled her towards a career in pension administration, where her degree in accounting and strong interest in law intersected. Karen's professional journey continued as she transitioned into leadership roles, thanks to her strong understanding of the law and ability to educate teams. Over 20 years, her expertise allowed her to oversee the daily operations and manage teams for two million-dollar enterprises. This experience showcased her skill in identifying operational inefficiencies and streamlining processes.
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At the 2025 Entrepreneur Summit Karen Brown will share how she helps entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve success through coaching and virtual services.
Venue: University of Maryland Alumni Center
Address:7801 Alumni Dr, College Park, MD 20742
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The University of Maryland Alumni Center is a convenient meetings and events location just minutes outside Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD. Parking is available in the Stadium Drive Garage located adjacent to the Riggs Alumni Center and the Moxley Gardens. For those traveling our hotel recommendation is "The Hotel" at University of Maryland. Amenities include:
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Shuttle
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Restaurants
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Business Services
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Internet Access
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Wifi Availability
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Fitness Center​​
Top 5 Reasons to Attend Entrepreneur Summit: Scalability
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Learn new skills from top entrepreneurs.
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Network and build connections with your peers.
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Learn about business resources and funding.
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Promote your brand to potential customers.
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Get the motivation you need to reach your goals.
CONNECT WITH RESOURCES, EXHIBITORS AND VENDORS
​Attention entrepreneurs and professionals! Don't miss the opportunity to be a vendor at the 2025 Entrepreneurs Forum: Innovation and connect with area professionals. Register on Eventbrite using the register link below.
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2025 Vendor Space Includes
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2 Full Conference Registrations
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6 Foot Table and 2 Chairs
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Table Cloth
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Listing in Program
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Social Media Mentions
Testimonials from NEA Events
It was an OUTSTANDING EVENT! Many thanks to Dr ZaLonya Allen for her vision to support small businesses with the creation of National Entrepreneurs Association! I was honored to serve as a panelist... Vickie Lewis, Founder and CEO of VMX International
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What a phenomenal event and amazing entrepreneurs Being the difference in the world! The generosity of support, laughter and wisdom shared was unparalleled! Bravo! Bernadette Johnson, Leadership Strategist
Dynamic. Spectacular. Incredible and any other inspiring and positive adjectives can only describe the forum... Colette Hughes, Real Estate Broker
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It was an amazing time as always. I just love the spirit of the conference and this amazing community that the NEA has created under your great leadership. Melissa McClary, Founder and CEO of Wise Digital Marketing
Your event was amazing - fabulous. You should be super proud of what you have done. Linda Schlesinger-Wagner, Founder of Skinnytees
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Congratulations! I had an amazing time of learning and networking! Regina Hall, Founder of Enlighten Heart Services​​