Welcome to the Inaugural James A. Hammond Minority Small Business Expo
Join us in Tampa on Saturday, November 30, 2024, for the Inaugural James A. Hammond Minority Small Business Expo, an event dedicated to empowering minority entrepreneurs to thrive through digital strategies and resilience. This dynamic event honors the legacy of THAPgroup founder James A. Hammond and will bring together minority business owners, community leaders, and innovators for a full day of growth, insight, and inspiration.
Transforming Entrepreneurs Through
Digital Strategies and Resilience
This year’s James A. Hammond Minority Small Business Expo centers on empowering minority entrepreneurs to thrive in a digital-first world. Our theme, "Transforming Entrepreneurs Through Digital Strategies and Resilience," emphasizes the importance of using smart digital strategies and developing resilience to navigate today’s evolving business landscape.
Clinton Paris, Esq.
Clinton Paris is a dedicated leader in Tampa’s legal and civic communities. A graduate of USF and Stetson University College of Law, he has over 20 years of experience in estate planning, probate, and civil litigation, including serving as Assistant City Attorney for Tampa. Active in organizations like the East Tampa Community Revitalization Agency and the Tampa Organization of Black Affairs, he’s been recognized with awards like the Florida Trio Achiever and the Florida Bar President’s Award (2023). As a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi, Paris exemplifies leadership, resilience, and service.
Gary T. Hartfield
Meet Gary T. Hartfield—an award-winning serial entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist whose impact spans healthcare, insurance, real estate, and social justice. As CEO of six residential group homes and founder of Serenity Village Insurance, Gary’s businesses employ over 100 Floridians and serve more than 1,000 clients. Founder of the All Hart Foundation and active board member with HART and United Way, Gary is committed to community uplift. Featured in Forbes and the Wall Street Journal, he shares his insights in his book The Journey to Success. Catch him at the Inaugural James A. Hammond Minority
Small Business Expo at 11:30 AM!
EXPO SCHEDULE
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8:00 AM - VIP Breakfast
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9:00 AM – Keynote Address: Attorney Clinton Paris, Esq.
Begin the day with an inspirational keynote by Attorney Clinton Paris, founder and owner of the Law Office of Clinton Paris, P.A. With a distinguished career in civil litigation, estate planning, and community advocacy, Attorney Paris will discuss the pillars of resilience, leadership, and community focus, essential to driving success.
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**Small Business Saturday Vendor Market (9:00 AM - 4:00 PM) **
Children's Business Fair (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
Our Vendor Market is open to the public all day, showcasing an array of products and services from local small businesses.
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10:00 AM - 11:30 AM – Breakout Sessions
Attend hands-on workshops that cover essential skills and strategies to fuel your business’s digital journey. Browse the Vendor Market, where you can explore a variety of products and services from local businesses. BREAKOUT SCHEDULE CLICK HERE
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11:30 AM - 1:00 PM – VIP Luncheon & "The Journey to Success" Mastermind with Gary T. Hartfield
Join our exclusive VIP luncheon, featuring a mastermind session led by Gary T. Hartfield, an award-winning serial entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist. Gary will share proven success, growth, and social impact, providing attendees with practical tools to implement in their own businesses.
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1:00 PM - 3:00 PM – Panel Discussions
After lunch, dive deeper into two pivotal panel discussions:
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Implicit Biases That Keep Us Broke – Uncover the hidden biases that may impact financial growth and discover ways to overcome these obstacles.
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Branding Strategies for Digital Success – Learn actionable branding techniques tailored to enhance your digital presence and build a powerful online identity.
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4:00 PM - 6:00 PM – Afternoon Break
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6:30 PM Doors Open – Red Door Reception, Awards Ceremony, Dinner, & Entertainment
Celebrate the day with our evening reception and awards ceremony. Honor outstanding minority-owned businesses and enjoy a night of recognition, dinner, and live entertainment.​
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Begin Your Journey to Digital Strategy and Resilience
This expo empowers, inspires, and equips you for a successful digital transformation. Through engaging workshops, insightful panels, and exclusive sessions, you’ll connect with like-minded professionals and gain tools to transform your business for a digital future.
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Don’t miss out—reserve your spot today and take the first step on your journey to digital strategy and resilience!
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