The second annual Microbusiness Support Colloquium, presented by Northern Trust, brought together twenty microentrepreneur support organizations from twelve states to Goizueta to discuss data, leading practices and new collective efforts that will help more microbusinesses start, grow and succeed in underserved communities.
In addition to peer organization discussions, the colloquium included two interactive panels featuring policy and research experts — both critical drivers within the microbusiness ecosystem.
Solana Rice of Prosperity Now and William Lambe of Enterprise Community Partners discussed top policy issues, such as Opportunity Zones (a program to encourage long-term investments in low-income urban and rural communities) and wealth-building tools. Chris Wheat of JPMorgan Chase and Francois Neville of McMaster University shared insights from recent academic studies and talked about potential new research on cooperative models and speed to capital access.
Lastly, Goizueta celebrated microbusinesses with a reception and meal made by Atlanta-area food entrepreneurs Atlanta Beer Boutique, Cherokee Moon Mixology, Purple Corkscrew Wine Shop & Tasting Room, Stop Think Chew, Chicomecóatl and Marddy’s.
