Business Excellence Program

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    2024-BEP-E.E.C.

Program Schedule and Details

    1. Mastering the Fundamentals | In-Person | Thu, 10/17; 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
      TOPIC
      Foundations of Business  Strategic Planning  Operational Efficiency 
      Location: Plantation High School Auditorium 6901 NW 16th Street, Plantation, FL 33313

      • Greetings, Welcome, and Opening Remarks
      • Honor Guards Salute
      • Performance
      • Educational Session

    Moderator: Maribel Feliciano – Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development
    Panelist: Dr. Reggie Lewis – Fusion Consulting Associates, LLC
    Panelist: Tanya I. Davis – S. Davis & Associates, P.A.
    Panelist: Emmanuel Trenche – TriFactor Creative
    Panelist: Sam Chesser – Self-Help Credit Union

    1. State of Small Business Funding | In-Person | Thu, 10/24; 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
      TOPIC: Capital Compass: Navigating Your Funding Landscape ▪ Mastering the Art of Successful Funding Applications ▪ Finance Fortitude: Building Bulletproof Financial Strategies
      Location: Plantation High School Auditorium 6901 NW 16th Street, Plantation, FL 33313

      • Welcome, and Opening Remarks
      • Greetings: Mayor Wayne Messam - City of Miramar
      • Educational Session

    Moderator: Commissioner Melissa Dunn – City of Lauderhill
    Panelist: Garcia Clemence – U.S. Small Business Administration
    Panelist: Angel Leon – ProsperaUSA
    Panelist: Dr. Lascelle Sweetland – Miami-Dade College (U.S. Department of Commerce available Grants)

      • Community Speaker Session

    Speaker: Philip Dickey, MBA – Miami-Dade College (Presentation: Al-Powered Grant Searching and Grant Writing: Enhancing Strategies for Profit and Non-Profit Success)

    1. Legal Launchpad: Essential Foundations for Business Success |Virtual| Thu, 10/31; 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
      TOPIC: Crafting Your Business Structure for Success ▪ Compliance Corner: Navigating Rules for Business Success ▪ Seal the Deal: Mastering Contracts and Agreements
      To Access the Meeting, Call or log into Microsoft Teams. Click on Join the meeting now; Meeting ID: 263 175 234 713;  Passcode: S5oyLF | Dial in by phone +1 754-216-1864,,888389906#; Phone conference ID: 888 389 906#

      • 1st Educational Session

    Speaker: Robert Henry & Claudja Henry – Integrity Consult Solutions, LLC

      • 2nd Educational Session

    Moderator: Robert Henry – Integrity Consult Solutions, LLC
    Panelist: Yolanda Cash-Jackson - Becker Lawyers
    Panelist: Kimra Major-Morris – Major Morris Law
    Panelist: Michael Scott – BCPS Economic Development & Diversity Compliance 

    1. Bond Boost: Elevate Your Business to Bond-Ready Status! | In-Person | Thu, 11/07 at 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
      TOPIC: Access to Bonding ▪ Resources and Support ▪Navigating Applications
      NEW Location: Plantation High School Auditorium 6901 NW 16th Street, Plantation, FL 33313
      • Educational Session

    Greetings: Sandy - Michael McDonald, Broward County Economic Development & Small Business Development
    Moderator: Beatrice Louissaint – Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council
    Panelist: Mark Cohen – Broward County Public Schools Procurement & Warehousing Services
    Panelist: Richard Zimmerman – Seubert & Associates, Inc.
    Panelist: Gladys Keith – FSB Agency, Inc.

      • Community Speaker Session

    Speaker: Richard Zimmerman – Seubert & Associates, Inc. (Presentation)

    1. Fast Track to Payment: Mastering the Local Gov’t Invoicing Process | In-Person | Thu, 11/14 at 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
      TOPIC: Cashflow Cure: Solving Invoicing & Payment Puzzles ▪Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve common invoicing and payment issues.
      Location: Plantation High School Auditorium 6901 NW 16th Street, Plantation, FL 33313

      • Educational Session

    Moderator: Joseph Sanches, Chief Operating Officer – School District of Palm Beach County
    Panelist: Mervin Swaby, Director of Accounting and Financial Reporting Department – Broward County Public Schools

      • Community Speaker Session

    Speaker: Dominique Herb & Team - SAP Business Network (Presentation - BCPS Procurement System: Learn the Buying and Invoicing Process in the Ariba System)

    1. Trailblazer Talks: Acquire Insights and Learn Strategies from Industry Leaders | In-Person | Thu, 11/21 at 4:00 p.m.- 8 p.m.
      TOPIC: 1st Session: Driving Business Growth with AI Technology ▪ 2nd Session: Connecting with Key Decision-Makers ▪ 3rd Session:  Insights from Prime and Sub Pros Success Secrets.
      Location: Plantation High School Auditorium 6901 NW 16th Street, Plantation, FL 33313

    1st Session:

    Educational Session

    Speaker: Stephanie Sylvestre – AVATAR Buddy, LLC 

    2nd Session:

    Community Speaker Session

    Moderator: Jennifer D. Andreu, Executive Director of Operations – Broward County Public Schools 
    Panelist: Joseph M. Morris, CEO and Port Director - Broward County Port Everglades
    Panelist: Mark E. Gale - Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport - Chief Executive Officer/Director of Aviation

    3rd Session

    Educational Session

    Moderator: Shaheewa Jarrett Gelin, Esq. - Chair, Broward County Public Schools’ Small Business Advisory Committee, and President, Broward County Black Chamber of Commerce 

    Representing Technology Business Category

    Panelist: Brian Ferrell, iPhone and iPad Warehouse, LLC – Sub
    Panelist: Cynthia Zeller, Worldwide Technology - Prime

    Representing Construction Business Category

    Panelist: Elena Hercule Jean-Francois, HJ Construction Group, Inc. – Sub
    Panelist: Mike Geary, Pirtle Construction - Prime

    Representing Business Operations - Health Benefits Category

    Panelist: Betty Piazza – Piazza Marketing, LLC – Sub
    Panelist: Maria Ortiz, AFLAC - Prime

    1. Graduation Affair: Celebrating Your Journey to Excellence | In-Person | Thu, 12/05 at 5:30 p.m.- 8 p.m.
      Location: Plantation High School Auditorium 6901 NW 16th Street, Plantation, FL 33313
      • Welcome and Opening Remarks
      • Honor Guards Salute
      • Performance
      • EMCEE: Kirk Gimenez, Founder / Host Xizzle TV

    About Kirk Gimenez:

    Kirk GimenezKirk Gimenez is an esteemed media professional whose distinguished career and educational background uniquely qualified him to lead innovative ventures in the business world. As a pioneering television broadcasting figure, he made history in 2003 as the first Latino hired by ESPN to anchor in English, demonstrating his trailblazing role in the industry. This historic achievement underscores his ability to break barriers and pave new paths in media representation.

    Kirk’s impressive career spans nearly 30 years of anchoring and public speaking, during which time he has engaged with millions of viewers across the globe. His expertise in communicating effectively and charismatic presence on screen has earned him two Emmy Awards, highlighting his excellence in television. This extensive experience attests to his media production and presentation skills and positions him as an expert in crafting messages that resonate with diverse audiences.

    In 2021, Kirk founded Xizzle TV, a media initiative to create smart TV for Latinos in English. This venture was designed to elevate the Hispanic-American community and other minorities, reflecting his commitment to enhancing media representation and addressing community needs. His role as a corporate Zoom coach further enriches his profile, showcasing his adaptability and capacity to lead and inspire in various formats – from traditional media to digital platforms.

    Moreover, Kirk’s involvement as a financial facilitator and his leadership in a full-service media/marketing agency demonstrate his broad expertise in media production, strategic business management, and financial operations. This combination of media acumen and business savvy makes Kirk an exemplary leader for new business initiatives, particularly those like Xelsior Real Estate LLC, which require a blend of real estate acumen and community-focused entrepreneurship.

     

    • Keynote Speaker: Dr. Marcus Bright, Author, Motivational Speaker and Nationally Renowned Speaker
      About Dr. Marcus Bright:
      Speech Title: “Bridges to a Brighter Future”

    Dr. Marcus BrightDr. Marcus Bright is an author and social impact leader who has worked with institutions, organizations, and communities to build partnerships and establish processes that generate access, opportunities, and resources for socioeconomic mobility.

    He has taught at five universities and held administrative posts across various sectors, including higher education, school districts, non-profits, and government entities. Dr. Bright has published three books that were Amazon's #1 ranked new releases in their respective categories.

    Additionally, he has published over 200 articles in numerous publications, including the Huffington Post, The Grio, Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, and the Miami Herald, and has spoken across the country on various topics related to public policy, education, and social justice.

    He received a Ph.D. in Public Administration from Florida Atlantic University, a master's degree in public administration from Florida International University, and a bachelor's degree in government and World Affairs from the University of Tampa.

INVEST IN YOUR GROWTH

  • INVEST IN YOUR GROWTH

    The Economic Development & Diversity Compliance (EDDC) invites you to our inaugural six-part Business Excellence Program (BEP) series, running weekly from Thursday, October 17th, 2024, through Thursday, December 5, 2024. This program is a valuable investment that empowers businesses with essential knowledge and resources to enhance their functions, organizational infrastructure, and further growth. Engage and access $2B in upcoming opportunities across the tri-county marketplace!

    BENEFITS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

    This participatory agenda features subject matter experts and high-powered, quality networking. Participants are encouraged to register for one or all sessions. Our commitment to providing you with the best networking opportunities, coupled with your participation in the 14+ hours of business development, equals greater ROI!

    WHY THIS PROGRAM IS YOUR GAME-CHANGER
    Do you supply these products and services? 

    • Academic /Student Services
    • Business Operation Products
    • Business Operation Services
    • Construction
    • Curriculum / Compliance
    • Facilities / Maintenance / Repair (Inside)
    • Food Services / Cafeteria
    • Grounds / Structure / Exterior
    • Janitorial / Custodial
    • Technology
    • Transportation/Logistics

    Hashtags:

    • #EDDCBusinessExcellenceProgram
    • #BcpsEddc

Transform Your Business...Furthering Growth:

  • BEP is a transformative six-part course specifically crafted to empower and support local small businesses in Broward County. This innovative program delivers a robust curriculum of business essentials designed to propel your business toward greater success.

    Course Highlights:

    • Sessions: Engage in immersive 2-hour monthly sessions, offering flexibility and continuous learning.
    • Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain in-depth knowledge of critical business areas, including strategic planning, financial management, marketing strategies, operational efficiency, and leadership skills.
    • Expert Guidance: Learn from industry leaders and business experts who provide actionable insights and practical advice tailored to small businesses.
    • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, fostering a collaborative environment for sharing experiences and best practices.
    • Unlock Access to Lucrative Procurement Opportunities: The strategic business mastery program prepares local and small businesses to engage and access nearly $2B in upcoming opportunities across the tri-county marketplace. By completing this program, you'll be well-positioned to leverage these opportunities, driving significant growth and sustainability for your business.

    Our curriculum imparts essential business skills and cultivates a mindset of innovation and resilience. Participants will leave the program with a clear roadmap for success, empowered to navigate the competitive business landscape and achieve their strategic goals.

    Join us in the BEP course and take the definitive step towards transforming your business, seizing new opportunities, and achieving excellence in your operations.

  • Turn Attendance Into Opportunity!

    Why Attend?

    • Unlock unparalleled opportunities: Gain insights into effective strategies and best practices that can help propel your business to new heights, ensuring sustainable growth and long-term success.
    • Enhance Contracting Skills: Master the art of drafting, negotiating, and managing contracts, which are crucial for securing advantageous deals and fostering strong business relationships.
    • Stay ahead of Compliance: Learn how to navigate the complex landscape of local, state, and federal regulations, minimize legal risks, and ensure your business remains compliant with all necessary laws and standards.
    • Connect with Industry Leaders and Peers: Access Exclusive Resources and Networks, fostering invaluable connections that can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and innovative ideas for your business.

    Who Will Benefit Most?

    • Aspiring Entrepreneurs: This event is a golden opportunity for those looking to start or grow their businesses, offering invaluable insights and inspiration.
    • Business owners: Individuals seeking to enhance their business operations and strategies.
    • Municipalities: Government representatives involved in economic development and business support initiatives.
    • Non-profit Organizations: This event is for organizations seeking to improve their operational efficiency and impact, empowering you to make a difference.
    • Professionals: Business consultants, advisors, and others aiming to expand their knowledge and network.
    • Students: This event is a playground for aspiring business leaders and managers, offering knowledge and networking opportunities to fuel your growth and learning.
    • Subject matter experts: Specialists from various industries and business life cycle stages looking to share their expertise and gain new insights.
    • Veterans – Unlock the potential of veteran business programs, gaining insights and funding opportunities tailored to empower veterans, service members, and military spouse entrepreneurs.

Learn More and Register

  • There is no registration fee; all participants are welcome to register and attend each session. However, participants who attend four of the six sessions will earn a #BEPCertificate from the BCPS (Broward County Public Schools) EDDC Department. REGISTER

  • 2024 Business Excellence Program (BEP) Sponsorship Package

    Become a sponsor of the School Board of Broward County's inaugural BEP and contribute to the continued economic growth in South Florida – act now to align your brand with this transformative initiative!

    SPONSORSHIP CONFIRMATION: Check the box located under the sponsorship package description.

    DEADLINE: ALL sponsorship payments MUST be received by 5 PM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

    PAYMENT METHOD: Credit cards only.

    All payments must be made by credit card. Please note that a 4% processing fee for all credit card transactions will be added to the sponsor package total.

    Sponsorship Payment QR Code - bit.ly_3X023bf
      https://bit.ly/3X023bf 

    For more information, please contact Jasmine Jones at jasmine.jones@browardschools.com.

  • Signature Host Sponsor: (In-Kind) (Value: $10,000) - No longer available

    • Official Co-sponsor of the 2024 Business Excellence Program 
    • Prominent logo placement on all promotional materials, websites, and event signage
    • 2-minute Introductory remarks at a hosted launch event
    • Opportunity to speak at the opening and closing sessions
    • Full-page ad (8.5" w x 11" h) in the Graduation and Awards Ceremony Program
    • Opportunity to participate in media interviews
    • Photo opportunities throughout the duration of the Business Excellence Program
    • Live acknowledgment during each course at the Graduation & Awards Ceremony
    • One (1) Resource Table  at all sessions for Agency's promotion

  • Wi-Fi Sponsor: $4,000

    •  Official Co-Wi-Fi Sponsor recognition in all e-blasts and social media posts (available as of signup date)
    •  Keynote presenter at the Graduation and Awards Ceremony Program
    •  Live acknowledgment at each Black Excellence Program event
    •  3-minute Introductory remarks at a hosted launch event
    •  Feature your 30-second promotional video (as provided) throughout the 2024 Business Excellence Program
    •  Full page ad (8.5" w x 11" h) in the Graduation & Awards Ceremony
    •  Interview opportunity during the Graduation & Awards Ceremony
    •  Prominent exhibit tabling location in the exhibit hall with two (2) chairs​
    •  Recognition during the Graduation & Awards Ceremony
    •  Sponsor recognition in social media posts
    •  Opportunity to distribute promotional materials to attendees
    •  Opportunity to receive full list of 2024 Business Excellence Program registrations

  • Graduation Ceremony Keynote Sponsor: $4,000

    • Official Co-sponsor of the 2024 BEP Graduation Ceremony Program

    • Full-page ad on the back cover of the Graduation Ceremony Program

    • Logo on the front cover of the Graduation Ceremony Program 

  • Speaker Sponsor: $2,500

    • Official co-panel sponsor at a selected session
    • Opportunity to speak at a session panel
    • Logo on promotional materials, website, and event signage
    • Half-page ad (5.5" w x 8.5" h) in the program guide
    • 15-second promotional video (as provided) 
    • Live acknowledgment during each sponsored session
    • One (1) Resource Table  at all sessions for your agency/company's promotion
    • Recognition during the Graduation & Awards Ceremony
    • Sponsor recognition in social media posts

  • Networking Sponsor: $2,500

    • Official Co-sponsor for "networking break" throughout the Program
    • Logo on signage during the networking break
    • Opportunity to distribute promotional materials during the break
    • Prominent exhibit tabling location with two (2) chairs​

  • Session Sponsors: $2,500

    • Official co-sponsor of a specific session 
    • 3-minute speaking/presentation at a specific session
    • Logo on promotional materials, website, and event signage for the specific session
    • Quarter-page ad (5.5" w x 4.25" h) in the Graduation and Awards Ceremony Program Guide
    • Live acknowledgment during each sponsored session
    • One (1) Resource Table  at all sessions for your agency/company's promotion
    • Recognition during the Graduation & Awards Ceremony
    • Sponsor recognition in social media posts

  • Virtual Visionary Sponsor: $2,500

    • Official co-sponsor of the Legal Launchpad: Essential Foundations for Business Success Session
    • Logo on virtual event platform, promotional materials, and digital event signage
    • Half-screen ad (5.5" w x 8.5" h) before the start of the virtual session
    • Share downloadable resources during the sponsored session
    • Mention in the virtual session announcements and digital posts
    • Push notifications

  • Partnership Pioneer Sponsor $2,500

    • Official panel sponsor of the Partnership Excellence: Navigating Prime and Subcontractor Dynamics  Session
    • One (1) Sponsor Booth with prime location*
    • Recognition in all media promotions and logo in event materials 
    • Live acknowledgement 
    • Feature company’s informational slides (as provided) in sponsors loop (2 slides maximum) 
    • Logo displayed in on-site event signage, digital screen and event program  
    • Opportunity to distribute promotional material to attendees
    *Electricity space is limited and is on first come, first serve basis

  • Community Champion Sponsor (Public Agencies/Marketing/Door Prizes Partner (In-Kind Sponsor)

    • Recognition as the official community/marketing partner
    • Logo on promotional materials and event signage
    • Opportunity to provide branded door prizes
    • Mention in all session announcements and social media posts

  • Photobooth Sponsor: $1,500

    • Logo in the 2024 Business Excellence Program website with hyperlink
    • Quarter page ad (Vertical 3.75" w x 5" h; Horizontal 7.75" w x 5" h) in the 2024 Business Excellence Program program
    • Prominent printed signage with company logos
    • Sponsor recognition in social media posts and e-blasts (available as of signup date)
    • Exhibit table in the exhibit hall with two (2) chairs
    • Opportunity to distribute promotional materials to attendees

  • Refreshment Sponsor: $1,500

    • Logo on signage at refreshment stations
    • Mention in the session announcements
    • Exhibit table in the exhibit hall with two (2) chairs

  • Exhibitor Excellence Sponsor: $500 per event

    • Official sponsor of Exhibitors Lane
    • One (1) Sponsor Booth with prime location
    • Recognition in all media promotions and logo in event materials 
    • Live acknowledgement 
    • Feature company’s informational slides (as provided) in sponsors loop (2 slides maximum) 
    • Logo displayed in on-site event signage, digital screen and event program  
    • Opportunity to distribute promotional material to attendees

Signature Sponsors

  • City-of-Miramar Pompano-Beach FL-Warmest-WelcomeCity-of-SunriseCity-of-TamaracEconDevLogo4C-WHITE BG

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Program Schedule and Details