Leveraging Regionalism to Support Small Business: New England Convening

The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) is proud to build on the success of our Leveraging Regionalism to Empower Small Businesses Summit, held on May 2, 2024. This event explored regional economic development strategies to drive small business growth, with a focus on equitable access, innovative financing, and leveraging technology to foster collaboration among stakeholders.

We are excited to continue this momentum by hosting our next Regional Councils: Leveraging Regionalism to Support Small Business convening in the New England region.

Taking place at Gather Conference Space at Oliver Street Tower (125 High St) in Boston, this in-person, half-day convening will bring together key regional stakeholders to examine the latest economic trends, engage in insightful discussions, and foster meaningful connections. Through panel discussions, fireside chats, and networking opportunities, participants will collaborate on strategies to strengthen and empower small businesses across the region.

The New England region encompasses Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont , a diverse area driving economic growth and innovation.

IMPORTANT: All attendees must present a valid government-issued photo ID to enter the venue.

Please ensure that the name on your registration matches your ID, as tickets are non-transferable. Thank you for your cooperation.

Attire: Business

Join the Movement: AEO Regional Councils – Empowering Small Businesses Across the U.S.

The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) Regional Councils bring together local changemakers—leaders from government, private industry, foundations, and nonprofits—to tackle the most pressing challenges facing underserved businesses across six U.S. regions. By uniting key stakeholders, we drive real, impactful change at the local level.

The AEO Regional Councils go beyond conversation—they are a catalyst for action. Through strategic virtual and in-person convenings, we deliver localized solutions tailored to the unique needs of each region.

✅ In-Person Convenings: Regional events and roadshow stops featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and interactive workshops designed to foster collaboration and drive solutions.
✅ Webinars & Virtual Events: Ongoing discussions on critical topics like access to capital, policy advocacy, and digital transformation to ensure year-round engagement.
✅ Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with government agencies, private enterprises, and nonprofits to equip small businesses with the resources and networks they need to thrive.
✅ Advocacy & Policy Development: Elevating the voices of underrepresented small businesses in local, state, and federal decision-making.

Are you an organization looking to partner with us?

Connect with us here!

Alexandria Eberhardt
Executive Director
Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce

Ani Vong
SBA Prime Coordinator & Business Coach
Community Teamwork

Betsy Biemann
Chief Executive Officer
Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI)

Brandon McDonald
Regional Hub Coordinator
Northern Maine Development Commission (NMDC)

Brianna January
Senior Director of AI, Creativity and Copyright Policy
Chamber of Progress

Chandra Reber
Director
Center for Women & Enterprise - NH Women's Business Center

Charles J. Rudelitch, Esq.
Executive Director
Sunrise County Economic Council

Deanne Healey
President
Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce

Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant
President and CEO
U.S. Haitian National Chamber of Commerce

Francesca Grippa
Executive Director
Northeastern Lab for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (NL4IE)

Joseph W. Williams Jr., MBA, EDP
Managing Director, The Community Foundation Mission Investments Company
The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven

Melissa Bounty
Executive Director
Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation (CVEDC)

Steve Grossman
CEO
Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC)

Host or Publisher Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO)