Leadership Chattanooga Alumni Association and LAUNCH Chattanooga have partnered to establish LC2: CONNECT, a one-time networking event that brings alumni from both organizations together for one-on-one discussions that address entrepreneurial needs, expand participants’ professional networks and promote opportunities for business growth.
The gathering will take place Sept. 19 from 5–7 p.m. at The Space at Warehouse Row.
Beginning at 5:30 p.m., alumni will partner to hold in-depth conversations about topics ranging from human resources and legal issues to marketing and time management. Organizers will pair participants according to LAUNCH entrepreneurs’ business needs and Leadership graduates’ corresponding areas of professional expertise.
In addition to providing participants with an opportunity to exchange business insights, LC2: CONNECT also aims to drive enduring connections between graduates of both programs.
“A strong personal network is something many of us take for granted and most of us are constantly working to improve,” said Hodgen Mainda, president of LCAA. “After connecting with LAUNCH leadership, we learned that several of their entrepreneurs lack the personal and professional networks needed to grow their businesses. LC2: CONNECT is a great way to build these communities.”
Sponsored by the Chattanooga Chamber Foundation, Leadership Chattanooga is a 10-month program that brings professionals throughout the city together to cultivate leadership and community growth. LAUNCH Chattanooga is a nonprofit organization that works to empower entrepreneurs from underserved communities by providing them with business training, support and mentoring.
Linda Murray Bullard, a contract process coordinator for Erlanger Health System and the founder of LSMB Business Solutions, is a Leadership graduate and new LAUNCH entrepreneur. Drawing on her experiences in each program, Bullard says LC2: CONNECT addresses an important opportunity for leaders in the greater business community.
“I’m fortunate to have had the experience of both programs, but LAUNCH entrepreneurs often lack the resources to participate in Leadership Chattanooga,” said Ms. Bullard, who established her local consulting firm through LAUNCH. “Through LC2: CONNECT, I know our Leadership graduates can assist in creating a professional network and address issues that will support LAUNCH entrepreneurs in taking their businesses to the next level.”
To learn more about LC2: CONNECT, contact Jaime Melton at jmelton@gmail.com.