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Baron Davis partners with NBA Africa to bridge the gap for entrepreneurs with tech summit during All-Star Weekend

Noral Parham
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Baron Davis partners with NBA Africa to bridge the gap for entrepreneurs with tech summit during All-Star Weekend

As the basketball world took over Indianapolis for the NBA All-Star Weekend from Feb. 16-18, a unique event took place that blended the worlds of sports and technology in an unprecedented manner.

Former NBA star Baron Davis, known for his stellar basketball IQ and entrepreneurial savvy, hosted a technology summit under his company Business Inside the Game (BIG).

On Saturday, Feb. 17, the BIG Summit served as a platform for local and small business owners from both the sports and tech industries to come together and engage in influential panel discussions. With panelists such as NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi providing insight, attendees experienced networking events covering a wide array of topics including leadership, technology, investing and the future of sports.

Davis, who founded BIG almost six years ago, beginning with a studio in Los Angeles that has since found a large amount of success, was excited about the opportunity to bring together individuals who share a passion for innovation and forward-thinking.

“What we built in L.A. for the entrepreneurs, it was about giving them [entrepreneurs] game,” Davis said about BIG’s humble beginnings.

Davis said that the tech summit aimed to break down barriers while fostering partnerships between athletes, entrepreneurs, investors and many others.

The offical logo for NBA All-Star 2024 in Indianapolis, February 16-18. (Photo/NBA)
The offical logo for NBA All-Star 2024 in Indianapolis, February 16-18. (Photo/NBA)

Last year, BIG put on a similar summit during WNBA All-Star, which was ultimately a success.

More than just a networking platform, BIG is a community-driven endeavor that aims to empower its members with access to networking events, investment opportunities and connections with like-minded professionals, including NBA Africa.

“To have NBA Africa a part of this event was a huge part of what BIG wanted to do,” Davis said regarding bridging the game between BIG and NBA Africa. Davis believes that NBA Africa’s involvement will provide its attendees with a unique insight into the realm of sports, business and technology.

With a focus on driving innovation in sports, business and technology, BIG represents a new way of conducting business by bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to share ideas and create opportunities.

As Indianapolis plays host to some of the world’s biggest stars, it is also set to become a hub for discussions on the intersection of sports, business and technology, thanks to events such as Davis’ BIG Tech Summit.

“A lot of people get left out during NBA All-Star Weekend,” Davis said regarding the lack of exposure for smaller businesses. The two-time NBA all-star went on to provide some advice for entrepreneurs: “Stay focused on what you are building. Learn to use your superpowers so you can meet others with superpowers.”

Contact senior sports writer Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on Twitter @3Noral. This story was originally published in the Indianapolis Recorder. For more news courtesy of the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Kappa Alpha Psi Partners with IU to foster future Black leaders

Noral Parham
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Kappa Alpha Psi Partners with IU to foster future Black leaders

In a groundbreaking partnership to boost diversity in corporate leadership, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. has joined forces with the Indiana University (IU) Kelley School of Business.

This collaboration, announced last month, paves the way for Black graduates from around the globe to pursue their MBA dreams at the prestigious Kelley School.

Kappa Alpha Psi, one of the nation’s oldest Black fraternities, opens its doors to men regardless of background. With over 250,000 initiated members across more than 640 active chapters worldwide, the fraternity boasts a rich history of fostering brotherhood and achievement.

“This partnership creates an exciting opportunity for our members to experience the MBA at our [the fraternity’s] birthplace, Indiana University,” Grand Polemarch (int’l president) of Kappa Alpha Psi Jimmy McMikle said. “It deepens the special bond between Kappa Alpha Psi and Indiana University that began 113 years ago when Black students founded the fraternity seeking support and camaraderie.”

Used for the Kappa Alpha Psi - Kelley School of Business partnership for MBA
Image of Indiana University college campus exterior buildings with flowers. (Photo/Getty Images)

McMikle graduated from Indiana University in 1992.

Kelley School Dean and Sungkyunkwan Professor Ash Soni believes the partnership is an extension of the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“Kelley co-founded the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, which has empowered over 100,000 individuals of color to earn their MBA,” Soni said. “Today, we celebrate this collaboration with another impactful organization to offer even more leadership opportunities and advance diversity in corporate America.”

The Kelley School of Business has a proven track record of inclusivity, being among the first participants in the Forté Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting women in business.

The fraternity and Kelley School will comprehensively support members pursuing their academic aspirations. This includes financial aid, access to the innovative “Me, Inc.” professional development program and entry into a vast alumni network exceeding 130,000 individuals.

Junior Grand Vice Polemarch for Kappa Alpha Psi Jordan Smith also spoke about the honor of the partnership. “Being a Kelley student and part of this extraordinary partnership is truly an honor,” Smith said. “Kelley School of Business and Kappa Alpha Psi are paving the way for the next generation of business leaders, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

With at least three full-tuition fellowships offered annually, the program opens doors for deserving applicants meeting Kelley’s admission standards. The school also plans to support fellowship recipients attending Kappa Alpha Psi conferences, waive application fees and develop webinars for Kappa Alpha Psi undergraduates to explore business careers.

IU trustee Jeremy A. Morris expressed his pride in the partnership. “The Kelley School is a global leader in business education, and I’m thrilled about this partnership,” Morris said.

“Together, we can elevate the business landscape and foster diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the professional journey.”

Contact multimedia staff writer Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on Twitter @3Noral. For more news courtesy of the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

How 2024 NBA All-Star is a triple-double for Indianapolis’ economy

Noral Parham
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How 2024 NBA All-Star is a triple-double for Indianapolis’ economy

NBA All-Star Weekend is not just a celebration of basketball prowess; it is a necessary economic powerhouse for the hosting city. This year the NBA All-Star events are set to take place in Indianapolis. The international spectacle, happening Feb. 16-18, is expected to create a significant uptick in revenue and activity that local businesses will feel for quite some time.

Indianapolis, renowned for its basketball culture and thriving downtown, eagerly awaits the benefits of hosting this prestigious event. The last time the Circle City hosted All-Star Weekend was in 1985. Since then, the city has undergone significant development, making it an even more attractive destination for sports fans and tourists.

“It is projected that the economic impact for the NBA All-Star Game alone for our city will be $320 million,” Mayor of Indianapolis Joe Hogsett said. “We will have over 125,000 fans streaming into downtown, at least 50,000 [are] coming to us from somewhere else, representing 40 states and 29 nations.”

The projected economic impact of NBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis topples the revenue generated for Super Bowl XLVI, held in Indianapolis in 2012.

The offical logo for NBA All-Star 2024 in Indianapolis, February 16-18. (Photo/NBA)
The offical logo for NBA All-Star 2024 in Indianapolis, February 16-18. (Photo/NBA)

Rockport Analytics, a firm hired by the Indianapolis Super Bowl Committee, found that Super Bowl XLVI added $278 million to Indianapolis’ economy, including $176 million in payroll and $76 million in tax revenue.

All-Star Weekend is expected to bring a significant increase in foot traffic, at levels similar to Super Bowl XLVI, benefiting restaurants, bars, local businesses and retailers. Sports bars are screening many events while restaurants anticipate enjoying new clientele.

Additionally, retailers and souvenir shops are stocking up on NBA merchandise to meet the demand of fans eager to commemorate the event with memorabilia.

Beyond the immediate economic impact, hosting the NBA All-Star Weekend presents the Circle City with a unique opportunity to showcase itself on a global stage.

William Castetter, a Pacers fan who attended NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s All-Star updates last fall, said, “people everywhere will get to see what Indianapolis is about” during All-Star Weekend.

With millions of viewers tuning in to watch the 73rd NBA All-Star Game and the dozens of events happening around the city that weekend, Indianapolis will enjoy unprecedented exposure, potentially attracting future visitors, investors and businesses.

The event has supercharged infrastructure improvements and urban revitalization projects. In anticipation of the uptick in visitors, the city has invested in upgrading transportation networks, enhancing public spaces, beautifying key areas, such as Monument Circle, and installing the Bicentennial Unity Plaza.

Recently, Indianapolis began playing full-court press defense on the overwhelming number of potholes in the city ahead of the big weekend in Indy.

“Our crews with Indy DPW are on the frontline of repairing these potholes, which is an extremely labor-intensive and tiring process,” American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 725 President Steve Quick said Feb. 8.

NBA All-Star Weekend extends beyond just monetary returns. The event fosters community pride and civic engagement while promoting a sense of unity among residents. All-Star Weekend highlights Indianapolis as a deluxe terminus for major sporting events and fortifies its prestige as a dynamic and welcoming city.

The 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis represents a significant economic opportunity for the city and its residents. With millions of dollars expected to flow into the local economy and a host of intangible benefits, the event promises to be a win-win for all involved.

Indianapolis is ready to shine on basketball’s biggest stage once again and Circle City could not be more excited to bestow Hoosier Hospitality upon those attending NBA All-Star Weekend.

Contact senior sports writer Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Twitter @3Noral. For more news courtesy of the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Minority Business Highlight: Feel Better Naked

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: Feel Better Naked

Stasia Berry, Indy-based esthetician and wax specialist, opened her own wax studio Feel Better Naked” in August 2017.

Originally, Berry worked for a larger waxing chain where she learned the benefits of hair removal services but also the stigmas surrounding them. After hearing a few horror stories surrounding first-time waxing experiences and bad practices, she decided to leave her job to start Feel Better Naked.

At Feel Better Naked, Berry aims to create a positive experience for people of all shapes, sizes and shades to feel comfortable in their own skin. She specializes in full body waxing for men and women, vajacials, underarm detoxing, hair removal aftercare products and ingrown/discoloration treatment plans.

In addition to hair removal services, the company promotes healthy skin care and offers a line of NAKED skin care products, including body scrubs, skin oils and natural deodorants.

Clients can also book services with Erica Hill, a licensed cosmetologist specializing in lash extensions and full body waxing for women, and Dominique Self, a licensed cosmetologist who offers full body waxing for men and women. Both Self and Hill operate their own businesses in addition to offering their services and products at the Feel Better Naked Wax Studio. 

The Feel Better Naked waxing studio is located at 8515 Cedar Place Drive, suite 102. For more information about services and how to book, visit fbnskin.com or feelbetternaked on Instagram. To get in contact, email feelbetternakedskin@yahoo.com or call (317) 833-2989.

This minority business highlight was composed by CHLOE McGOWAN at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at 317-762-7848 or via email at chloegm@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!

Building a more inclusive economy:

Sponsored Content by JPMorgan Chase and Co.
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Building a more inclusive economy:

Q&A with JPMorgan Chase’s
Thelma
Ferguson

All communities should have the resources they need to strengthen their economic futures. This Black History Month, JPMorgan Chase is affirming its commitment to breaking down barriers — including the racial wealth gap — and promoting opportunity for all.

In recognition of Black History Month, we connected with Thelma Ferguson, Global Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Vice Chair, Commercial Banking at JPMorgan Chase, to get her insights on how she’s celebrating Black History Month, how JPMorgan Chase is advancing equity and inclusion and what she hopes to achieve in the year ahead.

  1. Tell us a little about yourself and your role at JPMorgan Chase? 
    The majority of my 25-year tenure at JPMorgan Chase has been in Commercial Banking, providing clients with the financial solutions they need to grow their businesses. Yet, no matter what my role was, I have always been focused on driving inclusion and equity.
    Today, as the Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, I’m proud to look after our leading strategies to uplift employees, clients and the communities we serve as the bank for all. I also continue to serve as Vice Chair for Commercial Banking, building and managing key client relationships from coast to coast.
  2. What does Black History Month mean to you and how are you celebrating?

Black History Month is an important opportunity to reflect on the achievements and struggles of our Black communities. To me, this means honoring the immense reach, depth and richness of Black communities’ global history, in addition to its connection and intersection with other communities. At JPMorgan Chase, we organize events and activities to honor the designation, highlight Black history and culture, and enable impactful conversations and opportunities to continue our commitment to help create more equitable pathways for all.

  1. How is JPMorgan Chase working to advance a more inclusive economy?

We believe that we are only as strong as the communities we serve and the economies they support. We also understand that our company can play a role in helping communities grow, driving local economies, and helping people build their prosperity.

We’re helping to power economic growth by breaking down barriers and creating opportunities in communities across the globe. We do that through a focus on advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within our own workforce, as well as through business and community investments and policy advocacy.

  1. How has your company’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategy evolved over the past couple of years as the spotlight has been put on the country’s lingering racial inequality and social injustice issues?

We’re working to address inequities, including the racial wealth gap, in a meaningful way. Our efforts to support inclusive growth date back decades. One more recent example is our $30 billion, five-year Racial Equity Commitment (REC) focused on advancing sustainable homeownership, driving small business growth, bolstering financial health and expanding access to banking. Through this commitment, we’re helping to create greater access to affordable home loans, low-cost checking accounts and financial health education workshops in the communities we serve and particularly in historically underserved neighborhoods. Our goal is to help close the racial wealth gap and ensure all members of communities – including our own employees – can access the resources they need to strengthen their economic futures.

  1. How should other companies and individuals be thinking about diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to the growth of their business?

Inequity stifles economic growth. If you start with that fact, it becomes clear how engaging more communities and helping to create more equitable opportunities is just smart business. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are not buzzwords. Their tenets should be core ingredients in the design and execution of your business strategies and run with the same commitment and rigor as other parts of your business.

  1. What are your goals for this year and what are you looking forward to in 2024?

This year, my goals include deepening our culture of inclusion for our 300,000 employees, across all backgrounds and geographies and perspectives. I’m also focused on further embedding inclusive practices and solutions within JPMorgan Chase to inform our business, gain efficiencies and deepen impact. I am optimistic about the road ahead and continued progress in helping to lift all.

Minority Business Highlight: Designs by Vonda LLC

STAFF
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Minority Business Highlight: Designs by Vonda LLC

Designs by Vonda LLC owner, Shavonda Pompy, says she has always been a trailblazer. She graduated from Horace Mann High School in Gary, Indiana and then attended Purdue University-West Lafayette. Graduating valedictorian from her high school class set the stage for her journey into Business Management, complemented by a Minor in Management Information Systems from Purdue University. Pompy’s pursuit of excellence continued with an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan, specializing in Human Resources. Her professional canvas spans the retail, healthcare, education, and manufacturing industries, weaving a rich tapestry of experiences.

Balloon display at Martin University created by Designs by Vonda LLC.

Pompy says her path to entrepreneurship is a combination of “fun, professionalism, and self-made success.” She says that, “with creativity and resilience, one can turn an unknown hobby into a flourishing business.”

The idea for Designs by Vonda LLC began in 2019 when Pompy aspired to create “enchanting” balloon decor for her nephew’s baby shower without breaking the bank. Fueled by determination, she embarked on a journey into the world of balloon artistry.

Baby shower balloon decorations.
Party balloon towers and mantle piece.

She honed her skills through countless hours of experimentation and diligent learning through social media and what she deems as “YouTube University.” What followed at the baby shower was not just a visual spectacle but also a flood of inquiries from awe-inspired guests.

This marked a turning point. As the demand for her one-of-a-kind balloon designs surged, Pompy transitioned her passion into an official business. Designs by Vonda LLC was established in 2020 during the pandemic.

Decorative dress made of white balloons.
45th birthday celebration balloon display.

As her business has grown, she has gained clients and partners including the Indianapolis Black Chamber of Commerce, SOAR Consulting, and most recently the National Basketball Association. Designs by Vonda LLC earned its XBE certification as a part of the NBA’s 24 in 24 All Star Initiative.

Pompy says “Designs by Vonda LLC stands as a testament to growth, consistency, creativity and innovation.” It offers quality, cost-effective custom balloon décor that adds charm to various events. Each creation embodies the same dedication and craftsmanship that originated from a heartfelt family celebration, and is now a beloved and respected business specializing in crafting balloon magic. Pompy resides in Indianapolis with her husband of almost 7 years, Allah and two of her 7 children.

For more information, visit www.designsbyvondallc.com or contact owner Shavonda Pompy at info@designsbyvondallc.com. You can also follow Designs by Vonda LLC on Facebook and Instagram.

If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!

Business transactions: 2023 wrapped; 2024 predicted

STAFF
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Business transactions: 2023 wrapped; 2024 predicted

By JAMAR COBB-DENNARD

The 2023 small and mid-size deal space was a whirlwind. Interest rate hikes, capital sourcing transitions, news about buyer cool-downs, and market uncertainty due to bank failures and war made doing deals a bit trickier.

Interest Rates

Yes, money cost almost twice as much to borrow in 2023. Although no one wants to pay higher interest rates, the impact on dealmaking was significant. Increasing rates means that the amount of cash flow that can pay debt in an acquisition decreases. This translates to lower transaction values, lower loan amounts, and higher debt service. The interest rates did not kill deals, but it certainly made them harder to finance and cash flow. The Federal Reserve has signaled an interest rate cut this year, which should accelerate deal velocity and demand.

Bank Failures

Thankfully, there were not widespread bank failures. However, the failure of Silicon Valley Bank increased bank underwriting department’s scrutiny of deals. Closings took longer, buyers and sellers were asked for inordinate amounts of information, and equity contribution and collateral requirements increased. Now that the banking environment has stabilized, hopefully SBA and conventional underwriting processes will, too.

Capital Sourcing

Thankfully, private money was and is flush in the market. Many small investors selected to put their liquid cash in business acquisitions versus the market. Institutional investors have also been eager to put their money to work in going concern businesses.

Buyer Activity

Middle market buyer activity slowed in 2023, but small market deal activity has been off the charts. Buyers know that the supply of businesses on the market is increasing and they are hungry for new deals.

(https://www.bizbuysell.com/insight-report/)

Sale Prices

According to the BizBuySell Insight report, sale prices surged in 2023. Even though there is a lot of supply, and high interest rates, deals are still getting done at higher and higher prices.

Election and War Woes

Uncertainty is not good for financial markets. We may experience buyer reticence in Q3 as we get closer to knowing who the U.S. President will be. Multiple wars around the world have also created uncertainty in the market which could lead to a chilling of buyer activity.

Seller Preparedness

The market will not be able to beat a seller’s preparation to sell their company. If a business owner has groomed a general manager, kept accurate records, documented systems, created recurring revenue service and products, distanced themselves from business development and operations, and maximized margins and cash flow, buyers will be attracted and their business will sell.

The Silver Tsunami

Is the wave of Boomer retirements real? Google says yes:

(https://www.smbuyer.com/email/4-is-the-silver-tsunami-real)

Raw search data indicates that searches for how to sell or buy a business have increased sharply over the last few years. The tsunami is here, and service providers, buyers, and sellers must be ready to take advantage of it.

Jamar Cobb-Dennard is a business broker and M&A attorney. To learn more about how to buy and sell a business, listen to Jamar’s podcast, “What’s it Worth?”

Recorder wins Game Changer Award

STAFF
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Recorder wins Game Changer Award

The Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper was selected as a recipient of the 2024 All-Star Minority Business Opportunity Week “GameChanger” Award by InnoPower. The ceremony took place at COhatch on February 16 in Downtown Indianapolis.

“This award is a testament to your relentless dedication and unwavering commitment to advancing Black businesses in Indianapolis,” according to InnoPower Founder and CEO, Emil Ekiyor, in a statement provided to the Recorder.

“We are honored to receive this award and grateful for the recognition. It motivates us to continue our mission of innovation and excellence. Thank you, InnoPower, JP Morgan & Co., and other sponsors for your support, and we’re committed to maintaining our momentum,” said Robert Shegog, president and CEO of the Recorder, who accepted the honor on behalf of the entire Recorder team.

During the 2024 All-Star Minority Business Opportunity Weekend, InnoPower celebrated the “incredible talent within the Black business community.” Their goal was to inspire other entities and individuals to take steps toward achieving the dreams that will create positive impact throughout the community.

For 129 years, the Recorder has been changing the game and landscape of media. By continuing to share information and tell stories that represent the community, the Recorder has upheld the standard of being a voice for the voiceless for more than a century. 

The Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper was awarded for its “remarkable contributions to the Indianapolis community.”

Unveiling the power of women’s stories: A call to celebrate unsung sheroes

STAFF
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Unveiling the power of women’s stories: A call to celebrate unsung sheroes

By DONEISHA POSEY

In a world where the narratives of women often remain in the shadows, there’s a profound significance in the act of sharing their stories. Each tale holds within it the essence of resilience, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of equity. As we approach the Women’s Equity Brunch March gathering, themed “Hidden Stories of Resistance,” we are reminded of the transformative power that lies in amplifying the voices of women who have long been overlooked.

Our first brunch of 2024 is not just a mere gathering; it’s a celebration of Unsung Sheroes: Hidden Stories of Women’s Resistance. It’s an invitation to delve into the depths of history and contemporary society to uncover the remarkable contributions of women who have been at the forefront of change. These sheroes, often working behind the scenes, have pushed boundaries, broken barriers, and left an indelible mark on our world.

As we extend this invitation, we recognize the importance of honoring the hidden stories of resistance that have shaped our past and continue to shape our present. Seni Gonzalez, Nasreen Khan, and Tiffany Garner—three extraordinary women in Central Indiana—will be featured at our March brunch. Their stories exemplify the spirit of resilience and courage that defines the unsung sheroes of our time.

Seni Gonzalez Barron is a passionate entrepreneur who’s driven by service to others. Her relentless passion for business has led her to start a variety of businesses, most notably, Paco’s Taqueria. Today, Paco’s proudly employs over 60 employees that Seni cultivates into community leaders, with a vision of scaling nationally. Seni has also reimagined her career, recently co-founding The Halo App.

Nasreen Khan (she/her) is a diasporic creative and scholar who is of mixed Filipino and Afghan heritage. She grew up in Senegal and Indonesia and has recently made a home in Indianapolis. Her teaching and artistic practices, rooted in questions of equity and earth-based spirituality, grapple with questions of belonging; celebrate cultural margins; and confront colonization, racism, and misogyny. In this past year, she was also a member of the Looking Glass Alliance—a group of community voices who worked to diversify the perspectives in the IMA American galleries and mounted her first solo show that focused on maternal scarring. She also serves as the Art Editor for the Indianapolis Review.

Tiffany Garner serves as the CEO and Founder of Certify My Biz Inc., known for teaching the

underserved how to build profits through certifications and government contracting. Over the past decade, Tiffany has dedicated herself to breaking down barriers for underserved small business owners, women, and black & brown communities by everaging her business development expertise to create resources, provide education, and develop accountability communities to deliver impactful support to those in need.

These women, and countless others like them, may not always make headlines or receive accolades, but their impact is undeniable. They embody the spirit of resistance—standing up against injustice, challenging the status quo, and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.

The March Women’s Equity Brunch is a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on these hidden stories of resistance. It’s a day dedicated to uncovering the often-overlooked contributions of remarkable women throughout history and in our society today. It’s a call to action to acknowledge and honor the unsung sheroes who have shaped our world in profound ways.

We invite you to join us for a day of exploration, inspiration, and celebration. Tickets for the March brunch are on sale now, and we encourage you to reserve your spot to be part of this transformative event. Together, let’s uncover the hidden stories of resistance, amplify the voices of unsung sheroes, and continue the march toward a more just and equitable future.


All-Star Pitch Competition down to finalists

Garrett Simms
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All-Star Pitch Competition down to finalists

The NBA Foundation is down to the finalists in its third Pitch Competition as a part of its All-Star Week celebration and philanthropic contributions to Indianapolis. The pitch competition gives diverse tech entrepreneurs from Indiana the chance to win up to $150,000 in cash prizes.

“We know the pitch competition is a way the NBA Foundation and the Pacers Sports and Entertainment really can leverage the fact that the world’s eyes are going to be focused on Indianapolis because of the All-Star Game. What better platform to highlight the incredible entrepreneurial spirit and talent in the state of Indiana,” said Greg Taylor, executive director of the NBA Foundation.

Taylor said the goal of the NBA Foundation is to provide economic opportunity in various facets: workforce development, access to college, post-secondary training and education. The pitch competition is a perfect example of those goals put into action.

The spotlight of All-Star Weekend is not the first time the NBA Foundation has given back to Indianapolis. In 2022, the NBA Foundation donated to the Center of Leadership Development (CLD).

“I can say first, I think it has tentacles – the NBA Foundation. When they’ve invested in the mission of the Center for Leadership Development, it enables us to further our mission of helping Black youth become professional business and community leaders. But number two, the impact is not just on the young people, but on the young people’s families,” CLD President Dennis Bland said about the foundation.

Bland spoke about the similarities between CLD and the NBA Foundation’s values and goals. Since its creation over 45 years ago, CLD has been rooted in the Black community, not only studying problems, but also providing solutions.

“Well, that’s what I found with the NBA foundation: ‘Hey, we want to make an impact. We want to make a difference. We want to be a game changer. We want to see upward mobility.’ That’s the second common denominator: CLD has always been about upward mobility, ‘Hey, see a young person wherever they are, whatever their circumstance, your mission, your challenge is to view them through the lens of them being a future professional business [person] and community leader wherever they are.”

Through its work with CLD and the Pitch Competition, the NBA Foundation is providing tech entrepreneurs of all ages with a stage to shine.

Katara McCarty is one of the finalists for the competition and the creator and CEO of “Exhale,” a well-being and mediation app for Black, Indigenous and Women of Color.

During the height of COVID-19 in 2020, McCarty was concerned with police brutality and with how the pandemic was disproportionately affecting the Black community. The killings of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and Breonna Taylor by police affected her immensely.

She started thinking about how she could help her community by providing something they need during this time of death and fear. From there, she began Exhale.

“We deserve to have resources that help us manage stress, anxiety and trauma,” McCarty said.

Soon after getting into the competition, she noticed how serious the NBA Foundation is about giving opportunities to Black and brown creators.

“I really feel like they’re holding space for not just our brilliance, but also understanding the ways in which it’s hard to enter into business as a Black and brown founder, as a diverse founder raising funding and getting people to notice what you’re doing. Just feeling like they’re holding space has been amazing,” McCarty said.

Klein Ileleji, co-founder and CEO of JUA Technologies International, is another finalist who said he is impressed with the experience so far. The big spotlight of the competition and all the support the NBA Foundation provides have been welcome surprises.

“They’ve made us feel at home, they want everyone to be successful, and whether I come in first, second or third doesn’t matter, I’ll still be a winner at the end of the day,” Ileleji said.

JUA creates solar-powered food dehydrators for households and small farms. Ileleji created this product to address the problem of food waste.

Ileleji is from Nigeria, and his product and company name are connected to his African roots. The word “JUA” means “sun” in Kiswahili, a language spoken in East Africa. His dehydrators can dry many fruits and vegetables and make them edible and easy to store for long periods.

From the coaching to the actual pitch day, the competition experience has been memorable for Ileleji and McCarty.

They got to pitch for the semi-finals on the Gainbridge Fieldhouse court, where the Pacers play, with the jumbotron showing their pitches as they spoke.

The final competition is Feb. 17 at the Indiana Convention Center and is one of many events during All-Star weekend.

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