7:30 AM - 1:00 PM ​- Registration

​

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM ​- Welcome Networking Breakfast  

​​

Welcome to Gateway's first day, with a productive, entertaining networking breakfast to foster meaningful connections and collaborative opportunities. This event offers an upbeat backdrop of music in an informal atmosphere, perfect for engaging conversations with industry professionals and peers eager to share insights and experiences.

 

While enjoying a delicious breakfast spread, including fresh pastries, seasonal fruits, and gourmet coffee, you will have the opportunity to expand your network and build valuable relationships.

​

Sponsored by Southern Company, Alabama Power, Mississippi Power 

​

9:00 AM - 9:15 AM​ - Why Business Sustainability Matters Today

 

​Alvin-o Williams

 

Sustainability is a crucial topic as businesses face increasing environmental and social challenges. It involves meeting present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs, focusing on responsible operations that protect natural resources and vulnerable populations. For businesses, this means integrating environmental and social factors into decision-making, and prioritizing long-term practices that reduce negative impacts.​

​

Sponsored by TVA and Walmart 

​

9:15 AM - 10:00 AM​​ - Beyond Supplier Diversity: Advocating for Sustainable and Equitable Supply Chain Solutions through Environmental and Social Justice

​

Gregory Willis, Esq. ​

​

This discussion focuses on recent legislative changes affecting historically underutilized businesses and explores how circularity and sustainability can effectively promote sustainability, equity, supplier diversity, and supply chain diversification.

​

Sponsored by Chevron

​

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM ​- The Fundamentals of Circularity

​

Dr. Shengua Wu, Associate Professor and Director of Solid Waste Sustainability Hub, University of South Alabama​

​

Sustainability is a fundamental principle of circularity, focusing on developing a circular economy that efficiently uses resources, minimizes waste, and promotes reuse and recycling. For businesses, this entails embracing circular practices, such as harnessing renewable energy, recycling materials, and designing products and services with their entire lifecycle in mind—all while remaining profitable. These practices not only foster socioeconomic growth but also protect the environment, preserving the finite resources we depend on, including clean air, clean water, fertile soil, marine life, and diverse plant and animal species.

​

Sponsored by ExxonMobil

​

10:45 AM - 11:00 AM ​- Break​

​

Sponsored by Kopri Promotions

​

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM​ - Unlocking Global Potential: How the Partnership of SRMSDC and EMSDC with the Global Supplier Diversity Alliance (GSDA) Enhances Relationships and Opportunities for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) 

​

Cassandra Dorrington, President and CEO of the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC)

Brian Oglesby, President and CEO of Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC) 

Alvin-o Williams, President and CEO of the Southern Region Minority Supplier Development Council (SRMSDC)​

​

In a groundbreaking move that will redefine the landscape of minority business enterprises (MBEs), the Southern Region Minority Supplier Development Council (SRMSDC) and the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC) have entered a strategic alliance with the Global Supplier Diversity Alliance (GSDA). This session explores the profound positive impact of this collaboration on MBEs, which will unlock unprecedented opportunities on a global scale. Join us as we explore the myriad benefits of this partnership. Discover how MBEs can now easily access international markets, tapping into new business prospects and revenue streams. Learn about the enhanced networking opportunities that enable businesses to connect with industry leaders and like-minded entrepreneurs worldwide, fostering relationships crucial for growth and innovation.

​

Sponsored by Toyota

​​

11:30 AM - 11:45 AM ​- ExxonMobil Check Presentation

​

11:45 AM - 1:15 PM​ - Brunch with Mayors

​

Mayor Jaylen Smith, Earle, AR

Mayor Ronnie Williams, Jr., Natchitoches, LA

Hope Whiteside, Ph.D., University of Alabama Transportation Institute

​

​How often do you get a chance to enjoy a leisurely brunch? Now, imagine having the opportunity to share that experience with two of the Gulf South's most innovative Mayors. While you savor delicious food and delightful conversation, you'll have the unique chance to engage with the Honorable Ronnie Williams and the Honorable Jaylen Smith. These visionary leaders are not just focused on their cities; they are actively working to elevate the conversation around climate change, which sits at the top of their agendas. During this special brunch, you'll learn about their proactive strategies and initiatives to make their cities and the residents within them more climate-resilient. This is not just a meal; it's an opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by the efforts of those at the forefront of local governance. Don't miss this chance to dive deep into essential discussions while enjoying great company and delicious food!

​

Sponsored by our 2024 Conference Title Sponsor Shipt

​

1:15 PM - 1:30 PM​ - Break​

​

Sponsored by Smith Printing Services

​

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM​ - Breakout Session 1 - Corporate Track - Strengthening Your Supply Chain Through Circularity

​

Dr. Marc Scott, Associate Professor of Practice and Associate Department Chair & Director of Research, Supply Chain Management Research Center, University of Arkansas​​

​

Circularity establishes a closed-loop system in which resources are reused, recycled, or repurposed rather than discarded. This principle is particularly significant in supply chains, where goods and materials are constantly circulated. By fostering stronger partnerships with suppliers who prioritize circular business practices, large purchasing organizations can minimize their supply chain's environmental impact, reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, enhance resource efficiency, and cut costs. Such collaboration can pave the way for innovative solutions and circular strategies that benefit all stakeholders. Learn how circularity can be implemented in your organization.

​

Sponsored by ExxonMobil

​

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM​ - Breakout Session 1 - Breakout 1 - Small Business Track - The Pivot: Creating a Healing-Centered Business Culture to Boost Sustainability

​

Rhonda Tso-A-Fatt, Ed.D., Founder & CEO, The Moriah Group

​

​In this breakout session, participants will explore the vital importance of cultivating a healing-centered business culture and its significant impact on workplace productivity and overall culture. The discussion will focus on strategies to prioritize employee well-being, such as implementing mental health support, offering flexible work arrangements, and promoting open communication. By strongly emphasizing creating a supportive environment, your business can enhance productivity, strengthen employee loyalty, and foster a positive work atmosphere.

​

Sponsored by Shell, OXY, and BP

​

2:15 PM - 2:30 PM - Break 

​​

Sponsored by Birmingham Business Alliance

​

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM​ - Breakout Session 2 - Corporate Track - Beyond Compliance: Integrating DEI and Supplier Diversity for Sustainable Growth

​

Sponsored by Entergy

​

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM​ - Breakout Session 2 - Small Business Track - Cybersecurity and Generative AI for Sustainable Business Owners

​

Theresa Jones, Visionary Owner and Principal Consultant, EvalvIQ​

​

As businesses become increasingly digital and connected in today’s fast-paced world, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical aspect that cannot be overlooked. This breakout session As businesses become increasingly digital and connected in today’s fast-paced world, cybersecurity has emerged as a vital aspect that cannot be ignored. This breakout session aims to delve deeply into the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect your business and sensitive data, ensuring the long-term sustainability of your business operations. Explore various tools and strategies you can use today to safeguard your business, your clients, and your family.

​

Sponsored by Nissan

​

3:15 - 3:30 PM​ - Break 

​​

Sponsored by EvalvIQ

​

3:30 PM - 3:45 PM - Introduction of the Enhanced Benefits Program for Small Businesses​

​​

Alvin-o Williams, President of the SRMSDC

Mark Samuel, Regional Director of MBE Services

​

Learn about the enhanced benefits for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) that register or certify with SRSMDC. These enhanced benefits include exclusive access to premium healthcare, financial services, and valuable resources like eBooks and planning guides. MBEs can also enjoy significant savings on various products and services, helping them thrive in their business endeavors.

​

Sponsored by Protective Insurance

​​

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM ​- Welcome & All-Star Awards Nominee Recognition Reception ​

​

Top Golf Birmingham

1111 24th St N

Birmingham, AL 35234

​

Sponsored by our 2024 Conference Title Sponsor Shipt

​

​​​

​