2020 Revitalizing our Small & Minority Businesses: Part 2

Historically small and minority businesses have been perceived as the “Soul” of our nation’s diverse communities. However, since the onset of the global pandemic, COVID-19, the “Soul” of our community has been severely disrupted and in some instances, totally devastated, especially within communities of Color, and those in rural and urban areas.   

Unfortunately, many of our small and minority businesses will experience a greater rate of failure and economic challenges than their counterparts, given the lack of the government assistance which only amplifies the downfall. The lack of access to capital to sustain their businesses, causes many small and minority businesses to confront adverse impacts. This marginalizes their opportunities to succeed.

Panelists will discuss access to capital.

Speakers include:






Jason D. Phillippe, Senior VP, Commercial Relationship Manager
Regions Bank – Huntsville, AL






Kim Carter Evans, MBA, VP & Managing Director
TruFund Financial Services, Inc. – Southeast Region






Leteria Moses Waters, Assistant VP
Synovus Financial Corporation, Huntsville, AL






Dr. Qian Ruby Shen, MBA Program Director & Associate Professor of Finance
Alabama A&M University, Huntsville, AL


Roderick D. Perkins, Lender Relations & Economic Development
U.S. Small Business Administration, Alabama District Office, Birmingham, AL


Moderator:






Dr. Teresa Merriweather Orok, Executive Director
Center for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, & Economic Development
Alabama A&M University, Huntsville, AL