Next, Raymond L. Lamboy, President & Chief Executive Officer was on hand to offer insight on how Parkside could achieve its mission of developing entrepreneurship in the neighborhood. He began by asking the first of two crucial questions, “How do we connect our communities and work together to build the entrepreneurial side?” He answered that question by discussing how important it is to use systems and stats to bring the right businesses into the neighborhood while encouraging the community to spend their dollars there. The last question Mr. Lamboy asked was “How do we cultivate Parkside to keep those businesses here? This is what we all as a collaborative are working to do.”

Jonathan Wetstein, Urban Agriculture Coordinator of PBCIP and Gregory Carter former President of Haddon Avenue Business Association (HABA) both spoke about their respective Parkside-based programs. Mr. Weinstein talked about the Roots to Market Initiative, which focuses on gives local households start-up gardens, training, and income opportunities through the growing and selling of produce to area businesses. Next, Greg Carter talked about HABA’s work to promote commerce and community along Haddon Avenue. Mr. Carter stressed the need to build economical structure and control. “We want to create business ownership opportunities to control our economic system,” he stated.

The event continued with Jamila Powell presenting The Anatomy of the Pitch. “As an entrepreneur and business owner you pitch your business constantly,” Ms. Powell explained. “Talk about your experience in the industry and remember it is your time to shine when performing your pitch. Being honest, transparent, and respectable while pitching your businesses are vital because this is what draws consumers to you and builds the relationship,” she continued. At the conclusion of the presentation, Jamila, Davon Clark (ADC Kid, LLC) and Chris Hampton (CHAMP I AM) demonstrated their own sixty-second pitch. Soon after the demonstration pitches, members of the audience were selected to pitch their business. Oscar Spencer (ORS Photography), Frank Griffith (Charlie G’s Catering) Naeemah Hickson (Bringing Happy 2 Your Hour) and LAEDA Alumni Erin Johnson (The Collective) and Rashaan Hornsby (Visionary Entertainment) competed for an array of prizes.

The event concluded with speed networking where everyone walked around the room introducing themselves, exchanging contact information and making connections. Everyone took the initiative to create meaningful connections and build upon their networking support systems. 

LAEDA offers seminars and short term course in various counties of South Jersey throughout the year.  A long term course is also offered three times per year where entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and business counseling. The program is free, but you must qualify. LAEDA welcomes you to join our community of successful entrepreneurs. Visit our website at www.laeda.com or call (856) 338-1177 to learn more.