2008 MBE Capital Call
Connecting Entrepreneurs and Capital
September 26th, 2008   Homewood Suites by Hilton   Richmond, Virginia

Welcome & Introduction
     Opening Remarks by James R Taylor, Director - MBE Capital Connect™

Introduction to Angel Investing
    by Terrence H. Hicks, VP - Ben Franklin Technology Partners and Co-Founder, Minority Angel Investor Network

The Minority Angel Investor Network, the first and only organized network of accredited minority angel investors in the country, emerged as the brainchild of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP), a state-sponsored economic development organization committed to making early-stage technology companies successful.  In this session, Terrence discusses the role of Angel Investors and provides potential investors an overview of what Angel Investing is about.

The Franchise Advantage
     by Winston Bersch - The Entrepreneur's Source

Deciding the "best" franchise opportunity can be a bit challenging. Particularly since there are plenty of brands to choose, in a broad range of categories.  In "The Franchise Advantage", Winston discusses finding the "right fit", provides some insight to what makes a good "franchise" (for both parties), how to finance it, and important steps to take.  This session is an excellent primer for those thinking about acquiring a franchise, as well as entrepreneurs with a business model suitable for franchising.

Real Estate Development Finance
     by Christopher A. Hilbert, Senior Community Housing Officer - Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA)

You'd have to be on another planet to not know about the slumping housing market, and its affect on our economy.  In this session, Chris discusses the current climate, potential challenges, and opportunities ahead.  Attendees will get a good look into real estate development and how to finance various types of projects.

What Wall Street Isn't Talking About
     by Derrick L. Alford, CEO - Fiscal Fitness Tax & Financial Services, Inc.

The market is down, CD rates are languishing, and the ever persistent foreclosure bug loiters the nation.  Curious, we haven't heard much, if anything, from Wall Street lately.  Where is the smart money going?  What is going on with the titans of our capital markets?  Why all the secrecy?  In "What Wall Street Isn't Talking About" Derrick pulls back the covers and discusses the challenges on Wall Street and how business owners may avoid potential financial potholes!

Securing Capital in a Bad Economy
     by Timothy S. Hayes, CEO - Second Look Capital, Inc.

Ever since the economy started slowing last year, business owners across the country have been complaining about a lack of access to capital.  Well, that's certainly not news to the nation's Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs).  In "Securing Capital in a Bad Economy", Tim discusses the issues and challenges in the current market and reveals several strategies and techniques for financing the small business enterprise.

MBE Presentations

- J. Morani Holdings, Inc. (GA)

- Peter's! Restaurant, Inc. (VA)

- 4 Survival To Go, LLC (CA)

- Mwendo, LLC (VA)

- VStarz Corporation (VA)