Join us for the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Welcome Party and Minority Business Expo! This event offers opportunities for both attendees and Minority Business Owners alike. Mix, mingle, and make meaningful connections with Minority Business Owners who are paving the way to generational wealth and success.
Mel Essex was a beacon of hope, innovation, and unwavering commitment to fostering economic opportunity for Black and Brown entrepreneurs throughout Iowa. Joining Iowans for Social and Economic Development (ISED) in 1988 as a small business consultant and trainer, Mel became a cornerstone of entrepreneurial growth and empowerment. Over his distinguished career, he provided thousands of hours of technical assistance, small business training, and mentorship, paving the way for hundreds of small business owners to launch, strengthen, and expand their ventures. His efforts directly facilitated access to over $15 million in business financing, transforming dreams into sustainable realities.
The Mel Essex Award at the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit stands as a tribute to this extraordinary man—a champion of equity, a visionary leader, and a compassionate mentor. This award not only honors Mel’s memory but also carries forward his mission of empowering Black and Brown entrepreneurs to thrive, build generational wealth, and contribute to the economic vitality of their communities. His legacy reminds us all that with passion, perseverance, and support, the dreams of tomorrow are within reach.
The Athene Black & Brown Business Summit was created by national stakeholders to elevate ethnic minorities and bring BIPOC businesses together to assist with connection building, programming, promotion, training, and to provide resources to help businesses grow and prosper.
Brought to you by our Exclusive Pitch Competition Partner
View our impressive lineup of pitch competition mentors and judges, expert panelists, and keynote speakers joining us at this year’s Summit.
View the entire two-day summit schedule and plan what sessions you plan to attend both in-person and virtually.
The worst state for minority businesses, with only one minority owned business for every 43 minority residents.
Download a list of financial resources in West Des Moines and across the state here.
