SESSION DESCRIPTIONS

(partial listing) 

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Kickoff Keynote: Innovation in Action 

The forum will kickoff with a powerful keynote from trailblazing architect and entrepreneur, Beverly Hannah who will share her inspiring journey of becoming Michigan’s first African American woman-owned architectural firm. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers offering inspiration to entrepreneurs looking to carve their own path to success. Through personal insights from landmark projects across Detroit, Beverly will reflect on the challenges and triumphs of building a legacy in a male-dominated industry. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from a pioneer whose vision continues to shape communities.

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Key Takeaways:

• Understanding that breaking barriers starts with believing in yourself

• How aligning your work with your passion can lead to success

• Overcoming challenges and recognizing that your path doesn’t have to be perfect

• Innovation starts from reimagining what’s possible

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Innovations in Digital Marketing Panel Discussion

​​Panelists: Amy Vaughn, CEO of Together Digital, Breona Clawson, Founder of Eloquent Digital Marketing, Nick Mattar, CEO of Digital Detroit and Darrell Dennis II, Owner of First Hill Marketing

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​Summary: In today’s competitive world, mastering digital marketing is not just an advantage, it’s a necessity. Join us for a high level panel discussion featuring four of the brightest minds in digital marketing as they reveal the strategies, tools, and trends that are powering successful businesses in 2025. ​Whether you're a startup founder, small business owner, or seasoned entrepreneur, this session will give you the insights you need to sharpen your marketing strategy, increase ROI, and connect with your audience in more impactful ways. From cutting-edge AI tools to the power of personal branding, our experts will break down what’s working right now—and what to leave behind.

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Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to build a digital marketing strategy that aligns with your business goals

• Discover the latest trends in social media, SEO, and paid advertising

• Understand how AI and automation can boost your marketing efficiency

• Get practical tips for growing your brand and customer base online

• Hear real-world success stories and lessons from top-performing campaigns

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Resources for Navigating Today’s Business Landscape Panel Discussion

Organizations: National Entrepreneurs Association, Centrepolis Accelerator Lawrence Technological University, Comerica Bank and more

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Summary: Knowing where to find the right resources to grow your business can be the difference between surviving and thriving. In this power-packed panel discussion, seasoned small business experts will guide you through the essential tools, connections, and support systems every entrepreneur needs. This panel will discuss strategic growth strategies, training opportunities, and funding sources available to help you succeed. You’ll walk away with real-world insights and a clearer understanding of how to access the resources that can take your business to the next level.

 

Key Takeaways:

• How to find and apply for small business funding

• Practical steps to refine and develop your product or service

• Training programs to level up your skills and your team

• Financial tips to manage growth and maintain sustainability

• How to build strategic partnerships that actually move your business forward

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Behind the Brand: A Fireside Chat with a Marketing Powerhouse

Summary: What does it really take to build a brand that cuts through the noise and connects with millions of people? In this unfiltered fireside chat, you’ll hear directly from one of the most accomplished marketing minds in the business, an award-winning expert who has launched multiple successful marketing firms and worked with global giants like Nike, CBS, Fox, BMW, and Apple. With decades of experience driving results for both Fortune 500 companies and growing brands, he’ll share the real-world strategies, creative insights, and behind-the-scenes stories that have shaped today’s most recognizable campaigns. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your brand identity, scale your marketing efforts, or better connect with your audience, this is your chance to learn from someone who’s done it all.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Real insights into what makes a brand unforgettable in today’s crowded market

• How small businesses can apply big-brand strategies on a realistic budget

• The importance of storytelling and authenticity in modern marketing

• Tips for scaling your marketing efforts without losing your voice

• Lessons from high-stakes campaigns—and what they mean for your business

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Innovations in Business Tech and AI for Entrepreneurs

​​​What does it really take to scale a business in today’s fast-moving digital world? At this year’s Entrepreneurs Forum: Innovation, you'll hear directly from someone who’s done it—again and again. Business strategist and serial entrepreneur Gregory Shepard will deliver an unforgettable keynote on how entrepreneurs and small business owners can harness technology and artificial intelligence to supercharge their business, streamline operations, and outpace the competition.

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Key Takeaways:

• How AI can be a game-changer for small businesses, from automation to smarter customer insights.

• Real examples of how Greg scaled companies using emerging tech and how you can too.

• How to build a business that grows fast and makes a difference in the world.

• Personal lessons from Greg’s own journey overcoming challenges and how resilience fuels innovation.

• Practical steps to start integrating tech and AI into your business now, even if you don’t have a tech background.