
Dallas-based TD Jakes Enterprises has launched the National Good Soil Movement in 2023. Dungeon Forward, pictured above, won $100,000 in 2023 after winning what was described as a “very competitive pitch competition.” [Image sources: Photo, Good Soil; Color, DI Studio]
Dallas-based social impact company TD Jakes Enterprises hosts Good Soil Forum at Dallas’ AT&T Performing Arts Center to bring ideas, events and business connections to North Texas ahead of Juneteenth We want it to be a gathering place for social hotspots. Black Music Month.
The event will run from June 13th to 15th and culminate with a pitch contest that will award a total of $500,000 in grants.
TD Jakes Enterprises is led by Chairman TD Jakes, a driving force behind the Good Soil movement.
“Our mission in the Good Soil movement is to create generational wealth and empowerment by developing under-resourced entrepreneurs,” Michael Phillips, chief operating officer of TD Jakes Enterprises, said in a statement. It’s about increasing it.” “The Good Soil Forum breaks the cycle of under-resourced entrepreneurs leaving events uninspired but unprepared. We are the entrepreneurs who succeed despite limited resources. This June, we celebrate leaders past and present who are paving the way for future generations, a thriving cultural hub for music, entrepreneurship, and innovation in Texas. It’s the first step in a multi-year plan to foster a space where inspiration and practical tools meet to fuel business growth and lasting success.”
Good soil forum lineup
According to TD Jakes Enterprises, Mr. Jakes, a longtime entrepreneur and senior pastor of Potter’s House Church, uses the Good Soil Forum to promote thriving entrepreneurs, businesses and culture across the nation, especially in Dallas. The focus is on the scene. As a result, he says, it’s bringing thousands of people and millions of dollars to the area.
The group noted that North Texas consistently ranks near the top in the annual national economic survey, which says North Texas excels in small business growth, small business employment and hourly wage growth.
Themed “Rhythms of Entrepreneurship,” this year’s forum will feature visionary leaders and industry pioneers who will provide insights to help attendees navigate entrepreneurship with confidence and creativity. The organization said it will provide.
This year’s featured participants, hearth chat panelists, and breakout sessions include:
- TD Jakes, NAACP Image Award-winning philanthropist and CEO of TD Jakes Enterprises
- Tabitha Brown, Emmy Award-winning actress, NYT bestselling author and entrepreneur
- Pinky Cole, Founder and Owner of Slutty Vegan
- Ariane Simone, Co-Founder and CEO, Fearless Fund
- Richelieu Denis, Founder and CEO, Sundial Brands
- Charles King, MACRO Founder and CEO
The Good Soil Forum hosts educational fireside chats, breakout sessions, and hands-on workshops that allow business leaders to engage in important conversations on topics ranging from business planning and marketing strategy to financial management and leadership development. You can learn about, participate in, and gain practical knowledge. Skills and knowledge to improve your business.
The forum also features a marketplace of diverse vendors, from technology startups to artisan artisans, to network, discover new products and services, and tap into the entrepreneurial spirit of attendees. This is a unique opportunity to gain inspiration for your new business.
Empowering minority entrepreneurs
“The Stand Together Foundation is proud to partner with TD Jakes Enterprises to help more people achieve the American Dream through entrepreneurship,” said Stand Together Senior Vice President and Stand Together Foundation Chairman. Evan Feinberg said in a statement. “If this initiative is successful, it will not only enable many people to reach their full potential, but also help people change their mindset from what they lack to what they can achieve. It will demonstrate what is possible in this country.”
TD Jakes Enterprises and Stand Together Communities said they are also partnering on an ambitious national initiative to inspire new growth entrepreneurs in under-resourced communities. It is centered around a peer-to-peer platform for entrepreneurs, connecting entrepreneurs on the platform to the coaching, technical support, services, and networks they need to grow their companies.
Good Soil, in partnership with Wells Fargo, will return to its annual Seed Capital Competition, designed to guide entrepreneurs through the critical stages of business planning and pitching. said TD Jakes Enterprises.
$500,000 grant doubles from last year
To further empower underrepresented entrepreneurs by strengthening their skills in creating investable business plans and pitches, the competition is awarding a total of $500,000 in grants, double last year’s $250,000. It is unique and ranks third in the world as a seed contest of its kind. According to the group, the United States.
To participate, entrepreneurs must fill out an interest form on the Good Soil HQ app and join Good Soil’s Grow community by May 1, according to TD Jakes Enterprises.
The final submission deadline is May 23rd, after which a panel of judges will select finalists and present their pitches live on June 14th.
The contest culminates in the awarding of seed grants to top participants, with the winner receiving $200,000 and mentorship from top business leaders. Other awards include $100,000 for second place, $75,000 for third place, a $75,000 host award for the best entry from Dallas, and a $50,000 host award for the most improved participant. Prize money will be included, TD Jakes Enterprises said.
Judges will evaluate entries based on the soundness of the project, past performance, clarity on how the prize money will be used to grow the business, and the quality of the presentation.
Learn more about the 2024 Good Soil Forum, speakers and registration here.
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