AEO Talks: Advancing Entrepreneurial Innovation
About this Event
AEO Talks: Martha’s Vineyard Convening 2026 is a curated gathering of leaders from business, government, philanthropy, higher education, finance, entrepreneurship, and economic development who are committed to advancing economic mobility, entrepreneurship, and community wealth creation across America.
This invitation-only experience will bring together approximately 100 senior leaders to engage in thoughtful dialogue, explore innovative solutions, and build meaningful connections around one central question:
How do we create stronger pathways to ownership, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunities that produce lasting impact for communities and future generations?
Through a series of dynamic conversations and networking opportunities, attendees will examine how local leadership, anchor institutions, and entrepreneurial ecosystems are driving measurable economic transformation and expanding pathways to prosperity.
Featured Discussions
Black Mayors Driving Economic Transformation
Across the country, mayors are increasingly serving as architects of economic growth, entrepreneurship, and community revitalization. This conversation will explore how city leaders are leveraging procurement reform, workforce development, capital access initiatives, and public-private partnerships to strengthen small business ecosystems and create more inclusive economies.
Attendees will gain insight into innovative approaches being implemented at the local level and discover scalable strategies that can be adopted by communities nationwide.
- Former Mayor Steve Benjamin - Columbia, South Carolina – Moderator
- Mayor Dorcey Applyrs – Albany, New York
- Mayor Van Johnson – Savannah, Georgia
- Mayor Eddie Melton – Gary, Indiana
- Mayor Errick Simmons – Greenville, Mississippi
- Mayor Donya Sartor – Jonesboro, Georgia
HBCUs as Engines of Entrepreneurship & Wealth Creation
Historically Black Colleges and Universities have long served as engines of opportunity and advancement. Today, many are playing an even greater role as catalysts for entrepreneurship, innovation, talent development, and economic mobility.
This discussion will examine how higher education institutions are helping to build entrepreneurship ecosystems, cultivate future business leaders, strengthen regional economies, and create pathways to generational wealth through innovation and ownership.
- Antwon Woods, Dean, School of Business, Alcorn State University
- Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston, President, Norfolk State University
WACIF Capital Access Marketplace
Presented by the Washington Area Community Investment Fund (WACIF)
The convening will also feature a curated marketplace showcasing high-potential entrepreneurs and small businesses that are benefiting from access to capital, technical assistance, and ecosystem support.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
• Meet innovative entrepreneurs and founders
• Explore products and services from emerging businesses
• Connect directly with funders, investors, policymakers, and ecosystem leaders
• Engage in conversations focused on capital access, business growth, and economic opportunity
This activation is designed to move beyond visibility and toward meaningful relationship-building, investment opportunities, and ecosystem collaboration.
- Shinju Whiskey – Janon Costley
- NKVS Skincare – Nikia Vaughn
- Brown Sugar Babe – Mercy
- Nubian Hueman – Anika
- The Vibes Spot – Desiree Hill
- Bifties Gifts – Constance Panton
- The Spice Suite – Angel Gregorio
- My Block Skin – Dujon Smith
- Bow Fest – Adra Williams
- Boyd Cru Wines – Jon'll Boyd
- Capstone Creates – Lawanda Stoney
Who Should Attend
Entrepreneurs, small business leaders, policymakers, investors, CDFIs, philanthropic leaders, higher education executives, corporate partners, chambers of commerce, economic development practitioners, ecosystem builders, and advocates committed to expanding economic opportunity. Please note a ticket does not guarantee entry. Registering is applying to attend.
Partnership Opportunities
A limited number of partnership opportunities are available for organizations that share AEO’s commitment to advancing entrepreneurship, economic mobility, and community wealth creation. Partners will have the opportunity to support and engage with a distinguished network of leaders from business, government, philanthropy, higher education, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem while contributing to meaningful conversations that drive inclusive economic growth.
To learn more about becoming a supporting partner, please contact:
📧 [email protected]
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
