EAFocus was privileged to handle public relations for the Urban Entrepreneurship Symposium (#UES2016) held from Oct. 19 to 21 in Flint. From the Community Reception kick-off to the actual Symposium, I was extremely impressed by the energy and enthusiasm of thought leaders, entrepreneurs and engaged citizens who want to bring a new type of economic opportunity to Flint. Over the course of three days, participants (there were 495 registered to attend!) discussed creative ways to facilitate business solutions aimed at revitalizing an urban community that has experienced a water crisis and other complex quality-of-life challenges.
#UES2016 panelists Steve Wolbert, Phyllis Sykes and Michael Finney
Attendees Steve Wolbert, Julia Kehoe and Dr. Bobby Mukkamala
W. David Tarver, the chief organizer of #UES2016 (now in its third year) and a Flint native himself, is the brains and spirit behind the event. He and his superb team put forth an incredible effort to ensure the success of #UES2016. For a complete review on this year’s accomplishments, read here.
David Tarver being interviewed by WNEM at the Community Reception
Through a combination of community engagement and business innovation, it will be exciting to see what is ahead for Flint. David summed it up perfectly when he said, “We were pleased to provide a forum for conversation, ideas and strategy, and to help Flint reimagine and rewrite its story to one of renewed spirit and business and entrepreneurial opportunity.”
