No Longer Divided

ONE VISION. ONE COMMUNITY. UNLIMITED OPPORTUNITY.

Sept 9–10, 2026

Wind Creek Chicago Southland

East Hazel Crest, Illinois

ILBCC Logo

21ST ANNUAL CONVENTION

Agenda

Two days of powerful conversations, strategic connections, and actionable solutions.

Day 01Wednesday, September 9, 2026
8:00 AMto 8:45 AM

Registration, Breakfast & Networking

Start your convention experience by checking in, meeting fellow attendees, and enjoying a networking breakfast with entrepreneurs, corporate executives, sponsors, and community leaders.

9:00 AMto 9:30 AM

Opening Ceremony & Welcome Address

An inspiring welcome outlining this year's theme, 'No Longer Divided,' and the collective vision for building stronger businesses and communities.

Marcus Allen
Marcus AllenChief Innovation Officer, TechForward Solutions
9:30 AMto 10:00 AM

Keynote: One Vision. One Community. Unlimited Opportunity.

Discover how collaboration between Black-owned businesses, corporations, and government agencies can create lasting economic impact and unlock new opportunities.

Marcus Allen
Marcus AllenChief Innovation Officer, TechForward Solutions
10:45 AMto 11:45 AM

Panel Discussion: Access to Capital & Financial Empowerment

A deep-dive discussion focusing on funding models, capital access strategies, and practical tools to build sustainable businesses.

Topics Include

  • Funding opportunities
  • Business financing
  • Investment readiness
  • Building sustainable businesses
Marcus Allen
Marcus AllenChief Innovation Officer, TechForward Solutions
12:00 PMto 1:00 PM

Networking Lunch

Connect with business owners, executives, investors, and industry professionals while enjoying lunch.

1:15 PMto 2:15 PM

Government Contracting & Procurement

Learn how to position your business for government contracts, supplier diversity programs, and procurement opportunities.

Marcus Allen
Marcus AllenChief Innovation Officer, TechForward Solutions
2:30 PMto 3:30 PM

Technology & Innovation for Business Growth

Explore emerging technologies, digital transformation, AI, and practical tools that help businesses remain competitive.

Marcus Allen
Marcus AllenChief Innovation Officer, TechForward Solutions
3:45 PMto 5:00 PM

Business Matchmaking & Corporate Networking

Meet corporate buyers, strategic partners, and fellow entrepreneurs in structured networking sessions designed to build meaningful business relationships.

Marcus Allen
Marcus AllenChief Innovation Officer, TechForward Solutions
6:00 PMto 8:00 PM

Welcome Reception

Celebrate the opening day with music, refreshments, networking, and opportunities to connect with speakers, sponsors, and attendees.