Agenda

VIEW THE 2024 ACE CONFERENCE & EXPO AGENDA

REGISTRATION

2:00 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.

Check in at the ACE event, while engaging with other entrepreneurs and business experts.

WELCOME & KEYNOTE


2:30 P.M.

keynote speaker: BRYAN AMEZQUITA

You will be welcomed by a representative from the ACE Committee. Next, be ready to get energized with a keynote address.

Bryan Amezquita grew grew up and has enjoyed staying local to the Rockford area. He completed his education at Harlem High School, Rock Valley College, and Rockford University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Education. Throughout his career, Bryan has collaborated with various organizations across different industries to optimize their operational systems. He has worked with companies in all stages of development, from inception to growth and succession. Currently, he holds roles as an educator, speaker, published author, Vice President of Sustain Rockford, and Co-owner of Amez Enterprises. He is focused on expanding his business, raising his family, and doing what he can to help improve the community.

 

Bryan's passion lies in delving into diverse business ventures, studying their histories, and devising strategies to enhance their operational efficiency. He thrives on overcoming challenges and formulating actionable plans that can be analyzed then sustainably modified. When not immersed in improving his businesses or exploring new ventures, Bryan cherishes spending quality time with his family. He attributes his drive to their support, motivating him to strive for excellence daily. His ultimate goal is to make a positive impact that leaves the world better than he found it.

FUNDING SOURCES

3:00 P.M.

PANELISTS: JAVIER PLACENCIA (MIDLAND STATES BANK) & MICHAEL GASPARINI (RLDC)

MODERATOR: MATTHEW SIMPSON (DCEO)

This panel of business funding experts will discuss opportunties for funding when starting and growing a business.

ACE ENTREPRENEURS

3:45 p.m.

PANELISTS: SARENE ALSHARIF (ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY), mustafa K. abdall (arab chamber of commerce) &  CLARENCE GREER (business owner)

moderator: nate jordan, small business development center

A panel of small business and entrepreneur experts will provide you with the tools and resources needed to start, maintain and grow your business. 

ACE SOCIAL HOUR

4:30 P.M. - 5:30 P.M.

Enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres, along with a cash bar, while networking with other entrepreneurs and business resource partners.

ace expo

5:30 p.m. - 7:00pm

Connect with resource organizations and current entrepreneurs in order to get the advice and services to take your business to the next level. Also, meet industry and business leaders who you can partner with now and into the future, as you journey through your business lifecycles. 

815 INNOVATION AWARDS AGENDA - by, EIGERlab

ace expo

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

ACE Conference and Expo attendees and Eigerlab Innovation Award attendees can connect with resource organizations and current entrepreneurs in order to get the advice and services to take your business to the next level. They can also meet industry and business leaders to partner with now and into the future.


eigerlab innovation awards ceremony

7:00 p.m.