The sixth annual InnoPower Minority Business Week is set to take place from August 27-28, 2024, in downtown Indianapolis, partnering with Elevate Ventures‘ RALLY. This year’s conference is designed to create access for Black Hoosiers to compete for high-paying jobs and drive business growth in the innovation economy.
IMBW’s mission is to foster an environment where Black students, entrepreneurs, and professionals can thrive in the rapidly evolving tech and innovation sectors. By collaborating with RALLY, IMBW is amplifying its efforts to provide unparalleled opportunities for skill development, networking, and business expansion.
“Our goal is to bridge the gap between Black talent and the innovation economy,” said Emil Ekiyor, CEO of InnoPower. “Through this partnership with RALLY, we’re creating a platform that showcases Black excellence and provides tangible pathways to success in high-growth industries.”
The conference will feature over 40 speakers, including prominent Black leaders in tech, finance, and entrepreneurship. Attendees can expect:
- Keynote speeches from successful Black innovators
- Panel discussions on breaking barriers in STEM fields
- Workshops on accessing venture capital and scaling startups
- Career fairs featuring top tech companies committed to diversity
- Mentorship matchmaking sessions
Some of the notable speakers include:
- Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, immunologist and lead developer of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
- Robert F. Smith, founder of Vista Equity Partners and philanthropist
- Arlan Hamilton, founder and managing partner of Backstage Capital
- John Thompson, chairman of Microsoft and CEO of Virtual Instruments
Key sessions will include:
- “Navigating the VC Landscape as a Black Founder”
- “From STEM Student to Tech Leader: Charting Your Career Path”
- “Building Inclusive AI: Ensuring Black Voices in the Future of Tech”
- “The Black Business Support Ecosystem Design Thinking Session”
- “Modern Day Apprenticeship in Tech Industries”
The conference will culminate with the Black Innovators Awards, which will celebrate the outstanding achievements of Black leaders and professionals in the Indianapolis tech and innovation community.
In 2023, over 8,000 attendees participated in InnoPower, uniting diverse voices and perspectives. IMBW @ RALLY aims to surpass that number this year, creating a powerful network of Black innovators and allies committed to driving economic growth and inclusivity across Indiana.
Business Equity for Indy is offering a special discount for Black-owned businesses, students, and professionals to attend IMBW @ RALLY. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be part of a transformative event shaping the future of economic growth and inclusivity in Indiana’s innovation sector.
By attending IMBW @ RALLY, you’ll be part of a game-changing initiative creating sustainable economic development that integrates growth, prosperity, and inclusion for Black Hoosiers in the innovation economy. Don’t miss this chance to drive real change in Indiana’s tech and business landscape.
For more information on discounted tickets or to register, please visit the InnoPower website or contact the event organizers directly.
About InnoPower Minority Business Week
IMBW is a pioneering conference celebrating diversity and uniting brilliant minds from various sectors to promote inclusive innovation and economic empowerment. Through strategic partnerships, IMBW provides a platform for Black entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive.
Join us at IMBW @ RALLY and be part of the movement driving economic growth and innovation in Indiana.
