School of Business Sponsors 2024 ASPIRE Community Capital Economic Symposium

The Wake Forest University School of Business served as a sponsor for the 2024 ASPIRE Community Capital Economic Symposium, held on October 8. Themed “Bridging the Gap: Access, Equity, and Growth for Black Businesses in Charlotte,” the event gathered community leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates to discuss challenges and opportunities faced by Black-owned businesses in the Charlotte region.

The School’s participation highlighted its commitment to promoting inclusive growth. Roderick Lewis, Executive Director of Global Inclusion and Community Impact, facilitated discussions on enhancing capital access and resources for Black-owned businesses. Amol Joshi, Thomas H. Davis Professor in Business and Associate Professor of Strategic Management, moderated a panel on growth strategies, which explored ways to scale Black-owned businesses and overcome market disparities. Additionally,  MBA alumnus and ASPIRE Board Member Adam Holtzschue delivered opening remarks. Crystal Isler, Assistant Director for Enrollment Management, also attended the event on behalf of the  MBA Program.

The symposium aimed to find solutions to promote equity for Black-owned businesses, focusing on issues like capital access, mentorship, and sustainability. Networking opportunities concluded the event, aiding in building partnerships to address economic disparities.