The Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative 

We are excited to enter the second cycle of this program which supports early stage black entrepreneurs with the business capital and mentorship necessary to get on the path for long-term sustainability. Famous Amos is committed to creating pathways of success for black entrepreneurs who often face systemic barriers to starting and sustaining successful businesses in the longer-term. 

This discussion is arranged as a panel discussion in partnership with our judges, alumni and program administrators. The ultimate goal is to provide participants with general information about the initiative, discuss the application requirements and inform attendees how to deliver a winning pitch. Additionally, attendees will hear from last year’s winners and judges, Nancy and Tracy of Vontelle Eyewear,  in an open forum environment that allows for direct Q&A from subject matter experts.

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Moderator: 

Charles DeBow, Chief Executive Officer, National Black Chamber of Commerce

Bio: Charles DeBow is newly the CEO of the NBCC. He has a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organization management industry. Charles has a Strong program and project management background and has led the business development efforts at the chamber for 20+ years

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Panelists:

Rachna Patel, Senior Director, Marketing Distinctive Brands, Ferrero

Bio: Ferrara Candy’s director of marketing for distinctive brands, Rachna Patel, has been working on brand development with Famous Amos. In doing so, Patel believes that it is important to go back to where it all started with the brand’s creator, Wally Amos. Patel is ensuring that Amos’ legacy is honored through the authenticity that was first created in his kitchen. The National Black Chamber of Commerce and Famous Amos partnered to create the Ingredients for Success initiative, which will award a $50K grant to three small-business owners with big dreams just like Amos. Patel breaks down what she hopes the recipients take away from this experience.

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Nancey Harris & Tracy V. Greene, Founders, Vontelle  

Bio: Past winners, Vontélle was founded to satisfy the demand for better-fitting vibrant, luxury eyewear designed and handcrafted to pay homage to the African, Caribbean and Latin diaspora. These designs are tailored to empower humanity to see the world through a cultural and global lens.

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Panel Overview:

4:00PM-4:30PM: Run of show and Tech troubleshooting 

4:30PM-5:00PM: Intro and Moderated discussion questions 

5:00PM-5:15PM: Review Past Winners Videos

5:15PM-5:45PM: Audience questions (Zoom Q/A Module)

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