For 18 years, the Economic Development Forum, hosted by the Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum, has been a cornerstone for opportunity, collaboration and economic progress across the Mid-South. The forum is a space where ideas flourish, partnerships are forged and businesses of all sizes gain the guidance, knowledge and inspiration they need to thrive.
This yearโs theme, โFuture Focused,โ embodies the vision, tenacity and forward-thinking mindset that drive entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and community advocates to anticipate change, embrace innovation and prepare for opportunities of tomorrow.ย
โEDF 2025 is designed to equip business leaders and communities to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy,โ said Jozelle Luster Booker, president and CEO of The MMBC Continuum.
The forum, being held at the Renasant Convention Center,ย kicks off Tuesday, September 9,ย with a welcome reception and runs through Thursday.ย
On Wednesday, September 10, participants will immerse themselves in The Vision Vault, an interactive exhibit hall, where attendees can explore live demonstrations and silent workshops that spark creativity, foster connections and reveal new business opportunities.
Wednesday will also feature special seminars and workshops, including Booked for Business: Author Insights for Leaders and Entrepreneurs, featuring local authors Christin Webb (โ31 Days of Confidence: Engage Your Core and Leadershipโ), D. John Jackson (โFor Whom The Virus Tolls: Resilience, Perseverance, Fortitude, and Survival in the Face of COVID-19โ), and Carolyn Hardy (โLook Up: Five Principles of Intentional Leadership Volume I,โ โStep Out: Bold Moves for Business Growthโ).
Thursday marks the pinnacle of EDF 2025, where the forum shifts into its full programming. The day is designed to be a comprehensive learning and networking experience, giving attendees direct access to corporate decision-makers, successful entrepreneurs and business resource providers.
Throughout the day, participants will engage in workshops, panels and discussions featuring national and regional business leaders covering topics such as branding, workforce solutions and strategies for growth.ย
In addition, Thursday features the panel discussion Unified for Growth: A Future Focused Mayoral Discussion. Attendees will hear from Mayor Larry Dagen, Millington; ย Mayor Maureen Fraser, Collierville; and Mayor Marco McClendon of West Memphis, Ark.,ย about regional economic development, workforce initiatives and strategies for collaborative growth across the Mid-South.
The day concludes with the Robert R. Church Sr. Achievement Awards Gala at 6 p.m., a celebration honoring individuals and organizations whose leadership, innovation and dedication have made a lasting impact on economic development and opportunity throughout the region.
Booker emphasizes the Forumโs role in supporting minority-owned and first-generation businesses. โMost small and minority-owned businesses are first-generation. With mentorship, guidance and access to resources, business owners can navigate challenges more effectively and scale their businesses,โ she said. โEDF has spent 18 years fostering scalable opportunities and supporting emerging enterprises, this is a chance to tap into that same guidance and network.โ
