Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs

Yesterday, we witnessed a gathering of visionaries at our "CXO Townhall," where Chief Experience Officer, Monica Delores Hooks, MBA, EDP, and VP of Data & Research, Dr. Malcolm Muhammad, PhD, led a conversation around the RICE Readiness Score and the evolving RICE Economy. Together, they explored the pathways that are empowering RICE Stakeholders to reach their full potential, amplifying their influence and economic strength. In spaces like these, where knowledge and ambition converge, we’re nurturing the future of Black entrepreneurship—building a legacy of growth, resilience, and innovation. Stay connected as we continue to drive meaningful impact and build a robust ecosystem for Black excellence in business. #RICEReadiness #BlackBusinessGrowth #CXOTownhall #BuildingLegacy #CommunityImpact

Yesterday, the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) rolled out the red carpet for executive leaders from U.S. Bank Elavon, Inc. including a special visit from US Bank Chairman and CEO @Andy Cecere offering a VIP tour of its state-of-the-art facility and engaging in dynamic discussions to explore future collaborations. The visit provided a firsthand look at RICE's innovative programs and resources designed to empower Black entrepreneurs, sparking enthusiasm for potential partnerships that could further amplify RICE and US Bank Elavon's impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The executives left with a deeper understanding of RICE's mission and a shared vision for creating opportunities that drive economic empowerment and community transformation. We are grateful for U.S. Bank’s vision and commitment, which turn possibilities into realities for the next generation of innovators. #RussellCenter #Entrepreneurship #Community U.S. Bank Jay Bailey Sam Thurman

“As entrepreneurs, we stand at the forefront of a pivotal moment in our communities and our nation. Small businesses, particularly within the Black community, are the heartbeat of our neighborhoods, the very essence that drives our local economies. We don’t just sell products or services; we manufacture hope and create opportunities. Each storefront, each idea nurtured into fruition, represents a dream not just for ourselves, but for our families, our communities, and generations to come. The weight of those dreams rests on our shoulders, reminding us that our perseverance can ignite change and uplift those who look to us for inspiration.” “In the face of uncertainty, we must pull ourselves together and remain steadfast. History has shown us that resilience is woven into the fabric of our legacy. Our ancestors endured unimaginable challenges, yet they forged paths of progress that we continue to walk today. Now, it is our turn to lead with compassion, to build bridges instead of walls, and to dismantle the broken systems that hinder our collective growth. Let us be the vessels of nourishing joy and the exemplars of strength for the children who will inherit our dreams. The Creator calls on us to rise, to collaborate, and to continue this vital work in our communities. So, let us ask ourselves: What are we waiting for? The time to act, to uplift, and to inspire is now. Together, we can create a future where every dream has the opportunity to flourish. Onward, we go—united in purpose, driving toward a brighter tomorrow.” Farther Together - Jay Bailey #FartherTogether #Onward #BuildBlackBusiness

We are grateful for all of our incredible sponsors for making the 3rd Annual Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs Golf Classic a success! PLATINUM SPONSOR: Delta Air Lines SILVER SPONSORS: Cadence Bank Concessions International, DHC Management, H. J. Russell & Company, INEX Systems & Designs, J.P. Morgan Private Bank, Taylor English Dumas LLP, Therapeutic GI, Sierra Construction, Synovus, Kevin Bryant, Joe Moore, Georgia Power Company SPONSORS: Brandon Williams, Citizens Trust Bank, City Food Hall, Gerard Gibbons, Ira Moreland, SCN Ventures BREAKFAST SPONSOR: John Brewer LADIES CLINIC SPONSOR: Georgia Power Company Your support fuels innovation and entrepreneurship in our community! We couldn't have done it without you! #RussellInnovationCenter #GolfClassic

🏌️♂️✨ A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the 3rd Annual Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs Golf Classic this year! With over 80+ golfers joining us at the Piedmont Driving Club, we are thankful for all the participants, sponsors, and the entire RICE staff for making this day unforgettable. Your contributions and support help fuel our mission to empower Black entrepreneurs and build a legacy of innovation and economic growth. 💼🚀 We can’t wait to see you all next year for the 4th Annual Innovation Golf Classic in 2024! Stay tuned by visiting russellcenter.org for more updates. 🏌️♀️⛳️ #RussellCenter #InnovationGolfClassic #Entrepreneurship #GolfForGood #BlackEntrepreneurs #Community #BusinessGrowth

Today I had an incredible volunteer event with my Atlanta Salesforce ☁ family, in collaboration with Amazon, Goodr, and the local minority-owned business community. We launched a Pop-Up Grocery Market at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, serving families with groceries and hygiene bags. This event truly highlighted the power of partnership by addressing food insecurity, strengthening relationships with strategic customers and suppliers, providing visibility to local minority-owned businesses, and demonstrating how community partnerships can amplify impact. It was a perfect example of how combining our partnerships can create meaningful change. I am grateful for the opportunity to support our Atlanta community alongside my Global Procurement & Sourcing team and my wonderful colleagues at Salesforce. Madison Gunter, III MBA, Lili Kwan, Katherine Monroe, Dwayne Benjamin. M.S., John Robert DeShazer

Apple for Entrepreneurs: Tech Tips for Success This morning’s event, hosted by Apple, provided entrepreneurs with critical insights into leveraging technology to enhance their business strategies. RICE Stakeholders gained a deeper understanding of Apple’s tools and how they can be used to drive growth and innovation in today’s competitive digital landscape. The session delivered a wealth of valuable knowledge, arming entrepreneurs with the technological expertise needed to thrive. Special thanks to Apple for facilitating this transformative experience! #AppleForEntrepreneurs #TechTips #RICEEvents #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #BusinessMastery #GameChangers

There’s always something special happening at RICE, and today was no exception! Disney on the Yard kicked off an incredible day, welcoming students from Morehouse, Spelman, Clark Atlanta, and other HBCUs to experience the magic firsthand. Today was all about inspiring the youth, introducing students to pathways in business and entrepreneurship, while highlighting exciting career opportunities and programs within Disney. A special thank you to the amazing panel moderated by Cedric Beal, a Morehouse graduate and Disney Dreamer, featuring Carla Toles McKinney, Manager of Supplier Diversity at Disney, Corey Savage, Manager of Outreach and Engineering at Disney, and Shalon Brown, Director of Marketing and Communications at RICE. Your insights and dedication helped make this event unforgettable! Disney on the Yard is dedicated to providing HBCU students and alumni with meaningful career opportunities across their enterprise. Today’s event brought future leaders together with Disney executives, HBCU alumni, Disney Dreamers Academy participants, and RICE Stakeholders for powerful networking and conversation. This is the essence of uncommon access at RICE—where opportunities meet preparation. We create spaces that bridge the gap between ambition and achievement, giving entrepreneurs direct connections with industry leaders and the tools to thrive in their career journeys. It’s about making dreams tangible and opening doors that lead to real success. #UnCommonAccess #DisneyOnTheYard #RICECommunity The Walt Disney Company

Today marks the official kick-off welcoming our community partners, executives, board members, and RICE stakeholders for what promises to be a week of meaningful collaboration and growth. Stay tuned as we share more updates and highlight key moments throughout the week. #SupplierDiversity #MinorityOwned #Entrepreneurship #RICE

The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs is proud to work with Chef Chrissy of Epic Flavors, a valued Stakeholder whose exceptional culinary talents consistently elevate our events. Her delicious dishes are always a highlight, and we are grateful for her continued support and service. As an economic mobility engine, RICE is dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurs and small business owners like Chef Chrissy to innovate, grow, create jobs, and build wealth. At a time when equitable opportunities for Black-owned businesses are more crucial than ever, RICE remains committed to expanding pathways for Black entrepreneurs in Atlanta and beyond. Learn more about our mission at russellcenter.org #EconomicMobility #BlackEntrepreneurs #SupportBlackBusinesses #RICECommunity #EpicFlavors