Two months after the Immigrant Entrepreneurs Summit held its first regional event in Bloomington, the city has put out a recap, video included. City staff said about 300 business owners, community partners and leaders spent the day learning, networking and getting a push forward. The city said the summit showed off "the creativity, resilience and leadership that immigrant entrepreneurs bring to Bloomington and the entire region."
The city said its staff went to the regional gathering to support local business founders and build stronger ties with the residents who help drive economic growth. Council Member Shawn Nelson spoke to the crowd and called "the City's dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive business environment" central to the day. If you missed it, the recap video is on YouTube.
Here's how it came together. Immigrant Entrepreneurs Summit, with support from the City of Bloomington, booked Friday, June 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Masonic Heritage Center, 11411 Masonic Home Drive. Organizers said the day would celebrate entrepreneurs' wins, connect business owners with each other and with support groups, and teach practical strategies on core business topics.
This was the summit's first event in Bloomington. Board Director Ying Sa said in advance that the partnership "showcases a supportive, vibrant community full of opportunity."
Bloomington will be represented again this fall. The group's 19th annual national summit is set for November 21 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, Iowa. Barb Wolff of the Bloomington port authority will receive the Karen L. Evans Immigrant Champion Award there. The national program lists 21 breakout workshops, an exhibitor hall, a business pitch competition and an awards luncheon.
Local business owners who want help can call the city's Community Development Department at 952-563-8920 or email [email protected].
