Los Angeles "Branding Evangelist" Gerry Foster is the keynote speaker of the Fresno Metro Black Chamber's upcoming event. Photo via gerryfosterbranding.com

The Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce has announced the date for its first Economic Awareness, Diversity, and Prosperity Conference in an effort to share information and resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The event will begin at 8 a.m. on July 14 at the Doubletree Hotel in Downtown Fresno and feature various speakers, workshops, and peer-to-peer engagement that will provide participants tools to make better business decisions, according to a news release.

According to the FMBCC, understanding the power of diversity, inclusion, and self-empowerment are key components of this conference, allowing attendees the opportunity to gain a new level of ambition while setting new goals and strategies.

“We are committed to serving the Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs of the Central Valley to ensure their success and continued growth,” said Cassandra D. Little Ph.D., Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce CEO. “As our business community transitions from the influx of Covid 19 related financial support to managing business as usual, we must continue to provide them opportunities to elevate and scale their businesses. This conference will provide an invaluable learning experience that will give our participants access to valuable resources and inspiration to help them succeed.” 

The event will include workshops on topics such as financial literacy, access to capital, business planning for long-term success, marketing strategies, networking opportunities and more. There will also be a special appearance from Anthony Bailey, morning weather anchor from CBS47 Fresno, as master of ceremonies.

The keynote presentation will be led by Gerry Foster of Los Angeles-based Gerry Foster Branding, with an opening discussion from Tara Lynn Gray, director of the Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). Closing discussion will be led by Jay King, president and CEO of California Black Chamber of Commerce.