Minority Entrepreneurs

Come join us for bingo at Atlas Brew Works in Alexandria. It's free to play. Win prizes on every round, and the winner of the final round gets a $50 Atlas Brew Works gift card for your next visit! More information: https://atlasbrewworks.com/pages/events#calendar-c3cfc1a3-4344-434e-a1b2-fb876f819883 Parking: Wegmans has a parking garage (via the Stovall St entrance) and is next to Atlas Metro: Eisenhower Ave (yellow line)

The BNI Capital Business Alliance is a business and professional networking organization for all industry leaders. We are one of the top BNI groups in the region, focused on building business relationships and friendships that lead to growing each others business. We meet every Wednesday morning to build relationships, showcase our services, and meet new people! We welcome all visitors who are looking to expand their referral networks and grow their business. There is no fee for visiting our lite fare breakfast meeting and if your business category is open in our chapter you can learn more about how to become a member and join us every week! We are very active outside of our Wednesday morning meetings as well! We host member-only events regularly and are always out and about networking at other events. Due to COVID-19 circumstances our meetings are currently being held virtually through a Virtual Zoom Meeting from 7:30 - 9:00 am. A link to the meeting will be sent to you once you register as Attending on Meetup. We can't wait to meet you! Be prepared to tell us all about your business!

## 1 Million Cups Loudoun – Business Presentation ### Featuring Clarissa Shepherd, Founder of Nova Pilates **Wednesday\, June 10 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us as we welcome **Clarissa Shepherd**, founder of **Nova Pilates**, to the 1 Million Cups Loudoun stage for a conversation focused on wellness, education, growth, and building a service-based business that creates lasting impact. *** ## About the Presenter **Clarissa Shepherd** is a Classical Pilates instructor, studio owner, and Master Trainer who has dedicated her career to movement education, fitness instruction, and professional development. Her experience spans client services, teacher training, curriculum development, staff mentoring, and business ownership. By combining hands-on instruction with a passion for education and mentorship, Clarissa has helped clients improve their strength, mobility, balance, and quality of life while also developing the next generation of Pilates professionals. *** ## About the Business Nova Pilates provides high-quality Pilates instruction, teacher development, and wellness-focused movement education. Through evidence-based Pilates training, Nova Pilates helps clients move better, feel stronger, and improve their overall well-being. Beyond client services, the business is committed to elevating professional standards within the Pilates industry through instructor education, mentorship, and workforce development. Clarissa's mission extends beyond fitness—it is about helping people build healthier, more sustainable lives through movement while creating a community of highly trained professionals who can continue that impact. *** ## Who Clarissa Is Looking to Hear From Clarissa would especially value feedback and insight from: * Fitness and wellness business owners * Healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, physicians, chiropractors, and allied health providers * Pilates instructors and fitness educators * Marketing and branding professionals * Community organizations and partnership leaders * Investors and strategic advisors interested in wellness businesses * Entrepreneurs who have successfully scaled service-based businesses *** ## Current Business Focus & Challenge Nova Pilates is currently in a growth and expansion phase. With a strong foundation already established through client services and instructor development, Clarissa is now exploring how to scale the business's impact while maintaining the personalized experience and culture that clients value. She is seeking feedback on: * Scaling instructor development programs * Expanding educational offerings * Increasing brand visibility and awareness * Building systems that support sustainable growth * Strengthening community partnerships * Growing without compromising quality or client experience As many entrepreneurs know, growth often presents new challenges, and Clarissa is looking for insight from those who have successfully navigated similar transitions. *** ## Why Attend? * Learn how a wellness-focused business is scaling through education and community impact * Provide valuable feedback to a growing local business * Connect with professionals in health, fitness, education, and entrepreneurship * Be part of a meaningful discussion around sustainable growth and service excellence *** ## About 1 Million Cups 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **June 10** for coffee, connection, and a conversation about wellness, education, entrepreneurship, and scaling with purpose. We look forward to seeing you there.

This group was originally started by Chad Keith who created and hosts a podcast by the same name in Charlotte, NC. I am hoping to continue his legacy here in NoVa as I recently moved to this area. This group is all about finding community around self-improvement and exchanging ideas on how to be your best self and get the most out of life. This group is for anyone who is interested in overcoming average in all areas - career, ambitions, relationships, hobbies, health, everything. I am so excited to meet driven individuals in the NoVa area so please reach out if you have any questions at all. EVERYONE is welcome so please sign up for an upcoming meetup!

**🎸💼 Welcome to the Reston Area Rockers of Team Network! 💼🎸** **Ready to grow your business, expand your circle of influence, and connect with serious professionals, entrepreneurs, and Main Street business leaders in the Reston and Dulles Corridor area?** **Join the Team and Run with a Pack! 🐺🤝🇺🇸💪** **The Reston Area Rockers are one of Team Network’s dynamic weekly networking teams where relationships are built, referrals are exchanged, collaborations are formed, and opportunities are created.** **🕛 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM** **🍽 First Wednesday of each month IN PERSON at:** **Houlihan’s at the Dulles Crowne Plaza** **At Team Network, we believe that:** **➡️ Networkers network.** **➡️ Quantity has a quality of its own.** **➡️ One introduction can change everything.** **This is NOT a room full of commercials and awkward handshakes. This is a professional business networking organization built on intentional introductions, strategic partnerships, education, accountability, and authentic relationships.** **Whether you are:** **✔️ A business owner** **✔️ Entrepreneur** **✔️ Consultant** **✔️ Sales professional** **✔️ Tradesperson** **✔️ Executive** **✔️ Community leader** **…there may be an exclusive seat waiting for you on the Team.** **Expect:** **🔥 Powerful introductions** **🔥 Tactical referrals** **🔥 Strategic “Power Play Partners”** **🔥 Education and collaboration** **🔥 A positive, growth-minded atmosphere** **🔥 A community that wants to see you win** **Visitors are welcome to attend up to two meetings per year.** **Make this the year your business joins the Team and Runs with a Pack! 🐺🤝🇺🇸💪** **#TeamNetwork #RunWithAPack #BusinessNetworking #RestonVA #NorthernVirginia #Networking #Entrepreneurship #MainStreetBusiness #ProfessionalNetworking #GiveAndGo #Reston**

**Are you and your business ready to join the team and run with a Pack? 🐺🤝🇺🇸💪** **This Wednesday, March 4th at 8 am Jonathan Gessert -CEO of 321 Web Marketing will talk to the team about “Seeds, Nets and Spears: How to Grow a service business by 20-30% every year.”** **Open Networking starts at 7:45 am** **Order breakfast, Tip our great servers at Founding Farmers generously**

**👉 Please [RSVP on Luma](https://luma.com/pubkey-aqxx)** Strategy holds more bitcoin than any other public company on earth, and along the way it's become one of the most talked-about, and most polarizing, names in both finance and Bitcoin. Join us at PubKey for a candid conversation with two people living inside that story: **CJ (Chaitanya Jain)**, Strategy's Head of Investor Relations, and **Ella Hough**, who leads Bitcoin advocacy at the company. ​ Moderated by **John Balkam**, CMO of [Sovreign](https://sovreign.io/?utm_source=luma), the discussion goes behind the headlines into what it's actually like to execute the Bitcoin Treasury playbook in real time. CJ and Ella will talk about working alongside leaders like executive chairman Michael Saylor and CEO Phong Le, navigating Strategy's role as a lightning rod for both believers and critics, and the personal convictions that brought them to the company. Expect a frank look at the strategy, the scrutiny, and the people behind the world's largest corporate Bitcoin bet. **👉 Please [RSVP on Luma](https://luma.com/pubkey-aqxx)** ​**About the Bitcoin District Initiative** This event was organized by The Bitcoin District Initiative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to build a grassroots Bitcoin circular economy in Washington, DC through education, business onboarding, and community outreach programs. If you’d like to get involved or support the Initiative, visit [bitcoindistrictinitiative.org](https://bitcoindistrictinitiative.org/?utm_source=luma).

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-washington-online-tickets-1972272305558?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - [+971504724873](http://wa.me/971504724873) ( WhatsApp Only)

Yoga is a core part of Mindful Leadership. In connection to this, we will do yoga. We meditate at the end of the class. I am a yogi myself and enjoy it a lot. I would like to share the joy with fellow members. We secured a private class, just for our group. We will grab a bite/a booze afterwards (Optional). http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/9/8/5/600_433067493.jpeg http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/8/6/6/600_433067206.jpeg What to wear? No need to bother with super expensive designer yoga gear- just wear comfy clothes that move with you and provide decent coverage! No shoes are worn during yoga. Shoes aren’t even worn in the room where we practice yoga- so please take your shoes off at the door and leave them on a provided shoe rack or cubby. Water? Bring your refillable water bottle to fill up on free filtered water at the studio, or you can use one of our cups. Drink plenty of water after your class to help flush out toxins released from muscles and organs during class. As an expression of your yoga practice, you may wish to extend your gratitude to this fluid of life as you drink it up! Storage of stuff? Please store your personal items in provided “cubbies” inside the studio practice rooms (please don’t leave things outside the yoga room, especially valuables. And please remember to turn your cell phone off! Food? You might be uncomfortable during class if you just ate. So avoid eating during the two hours prior to class. You can also adopt a yogic diet that is vegetarian and energizing for maximum comfort and benefit. The payment includes registration, instructors fee and mat rental. It goes up to $ 25 on April 5th, 2015. Payment Instructions : 1. You should login from a PC to see the 'Pay Now' button, after RSVPing. Then hit the button 2. Verify correct dollar amount for number of people you're paying for. 3. If you don't have a Paypal account, click "Pay with a Debit or Credit Card". 4. If you have a Paypal account, simply log in, and pay as you normally would via Paypal. Refund & Ticket Resell All sales are final. We only refund the full amount, if the event is canceled. If it is rescheduled, we will send an email to those who RSVPed 'YES' advising that. A full refund will be given to those that let us know within 2 calendar days of the update email, if you are unable to make it on the new date. No refunds will be given after that time. However, you can sell your ticket to someone else if you are unable to attend. Please, feel free to post in the comment box for the event, that you have a ticket for sale. Work out payment between yourselves, and have the seller only send the organizer a "message" through their Meetup profile (do not comment in the comment box of the event posting) letting us know the full name and Meetup profile URL (if a member) of the person taking your spot. You must let us know two hours before the RSVP close time, on the day of the event. METRO & PARKING INFO : Closest Metro Station is U Street Cardozo (Please take 13th St. Exit). Also, please take into account Metro's Weekend Track Work & Service Adjustments. Check it on http://www.wmata.com/ and plan accordingly. Street parking might be difficult. However, if you plan to drive, there is a parking garage, under Franklin D. Reeves Center Garage, 2000 14th Street NW, Washington DC. They are open up until midnight and it costs $ 10 plus tax. Tel: 202-265-0010.

## Thinking about buying a home in Maryland? Join us for an informative seminar on the **Maryland Mortgage Program** and learn how qualified buyers may be able to access home loan options, down payment assistance, and other valuable homebuyer resources. This seminar is designed for first-time buyers, repeat buyers, renters preparing to purchase, and anyone who wants to better understand the homebuying process in Maryland. **Topics will include:** Maryland Mortgage Program basics Down payment assistance options First-time homebuyer qualifications Credit, income, and loan eligibility Steps to prepare for homeownership Common mistakes to avoid when buying a home **Date:** Thursday, June 4, 2026 **Time:** 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM **Location:** 1300 Spring St #134, Silver Spring, MD **Registration is required.** To register, email: **cassey.coul@gmail.com** Space may be limited, so reserve your spot today and take the next step toward homeownership.

Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation). Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.

• What we'll do On https://blackecon101.podbean.com/ Thursdays at 6 pm. discussing the economy....

**NoVA CBG has a turn by turn RideWithGPS club account that's free. [https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/](https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/events/271742916/)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride: Summary** **(Must Read)** **+++++++++++++++++++++** * RIDE NAME: Thirsty Thursday ("B" group) * START LOC: Jones Point Park (under the bridge) * START GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2](https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2) * START PARKING: Parking lot, if full park in the cul-de-sac * ARRIVAL: 6:30pm * SPEECH: 6:35pm * ROLLING: 6:45pm * LEVEL: Medium ("B" group) * PACE: NMT 16mph * DISTANCE: 14.5 miles * TERRAIN: Trail / Street * RIDEWITHGPS ROUTE: CBG_THIRSTY_THURSDAY_2026 [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40081486](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40081486) **NOTES:** * Try out a Medium Level ("B" group) ride in an encouraging, structured environment (No Drop). * **Bike navigation computer (Garmin, Wahoo, Etc...) or RidewithGPS app on your phone will be required as the season progresses.** * All road riding safety rules, and CBG Good Guy rules WILL BE followed * Heading to Southside 815 afterwards for the "Thirsty" part of the ride (cold beverages and hot food). **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride : Detail** **+++++++++++++++++++++** For your riding pleasure NoVA CBG presents Thirsty Thursday. Thirsty Thursday is about trying a solid Medium Level ("B" group) ride in an encouraging, structured environment. We welcome strong Beginner Level riders that are willing to push themselves to become better cyclists. This is a NO DROP ride so you will not be left behind but you are expected to really try to keep pace. The lead will go no more than 16mph and other organizers/helpers will attempt to "fill the gaps" as we ride. This is a mostly flat ride from Jones Point to Fort Hunt. Of course the "price of admission" for this ride is a hill that presents itself as soon as we enter the neighborhood across the GW Parkway... we have named it "The PUNISHER". If you successfully climb that hill, you are officially a CBG "B" group rider. Once we get to Fort Hunt we will do laps (or you can rest) for a bit before heading back the way we came. If you normally ride faster than 15mph you are welcome to practice your "keeping pace" skills. If you've done this ride at least once before and have the route loaded on a Bike navigation computer (Garmin, Wahoo, Etc...) or the RidewithGPS app there is also an "A" group version that you can sign up for (aka Very Thirsty Thursday) that rides independently and faster. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Meeting Spot:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Jones Point Park Jones Point Dr. Alexandria , VA 22314 GPS: [https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2](https://goo.gl/maps/kZ3zjBHHcQF2) Gather under the bridge by the restrooms. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Ride After The Ride:** ***(This is the "Thirsty" part of the ride)*** **+++++++++++++++++++++** Southside 815 815 South Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703.836.6222 [http://www.southside815.com/](http://www.southside815.com/) **+++++++++++++++++++++** **Ride Level Chart** **+++++++++++++++++++++** NoVA CBG tries to accommodate all levels of cyclists by offering different types/levels of rides. We just ask that you come to the ride that suits your current riding ability the best. * Introductory Level: If you haven't ridden a bike in a number of years (or are uncertain of your abilities on a bicycle). * Beginner Level: You can ride for 10+ miles at a pace of 10+ to 12+ mph with potentially minor hills involved. * Medium Level: You can ride for 20+ miles at a pace of 13+ to 15+ mph with potentially moderate hills involved. * Advanced Level: You can ride for 20++ miles at a pace of 15+ mph with potentially major hills involved. Both Medium and Advanced Levels might require handling various challenges such as reading cue sheets, using a Garmin or navigation app, night riding, out of town travel, or any other odd cycling situations. **+++++++++++++++++++++** **The Fine Print:** **+++++++++++++++++++++** An RSVP of 'YES' is your digital signature and means you have read and understood MEETUP.com's: * "Terms of Service : Section 6. Release" found at https://www.meetup.com/terms/ * NOVA-CBG's "Assumption of Risk Agreement" found @ https://www.meetup.com/novacbg/pages/1942951/NOVA-CBG_Waiver/ * NoVA CBG's "COVID Policy" found @ http://bit.ly/2021_NoVACBG_COVID19_POLICY Helmets are required to participate in all NOVA-CBG rides. All riders ride at their own risk and with the understanding that cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. When coming to the meetup you do so voluntarily and are ready and able to participate in the ride as described under the conditions of the day. Be on time for the "pre-ride" preparation. If you do not attend the pre-ride preparation you will not be allowed to participate on the ride. There are NO exceptions to the above.

• What we'll do Economist William Michael Cunningham on Podbeam Thursdays at 6 pm. https://www.podbean.com/

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-columbus-online-tickets-1988563717610?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - +971504724873 ( WhatsApp Only)

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

At Evolve Synergy Sessions, you'll be part of a supportive mastermind where we share challenges, brainstorm solutions, and inspire one another to take bold steps in our businesses. Grow your network, gain fresh perspectives, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded women who are committed to success. Whether you’re looking to move the needle in your business or simply need a space to connect and recharge, this is the perfect place to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. [Add Event to Calendar](https://evolvecolumbus.eventcalendarapp.com/) \*\* Please note, we will be arriving around 8:15a for open networking! Get there early and get connected! Contact Alexis Morley at [alexis.morley@edwardjones.com](mailto:alexis.morley@edwardjones.com) or Terri Lawson at [terri.lawson@e-merge.com](mailto:terri.lawson@e-merge.com) for more information.

Bring your Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontroller, or any other electronic project and join fellow electronics makers for a night of creativity and collaboration! This session is open forum to share your current projects—whether complete or in progress, it’s all interesting! Whether you’re deep into embedded systems, exploring new ideas, or just getting started, you’ll find a welcoming space to collaborate, share, and get inspired. **New to electronics or curious about tinkering?** You’re absolutely welcome. If you’re a beginner and want to experiment, I’ll have a couple of starter kits available so you can try things out—whether that’s blinking your first LED, putting something on a display, or experimenting with simple sensors. No pressure and no experience required—just an interest in learning and building. While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Worthington Park Library in the Olentangy Meeting Room.

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

Evolve exists to connect women entrepreneurs connect with one another, serve one another, and help one another overcome challenges in marketing, sales, networking, and professional development. **[Add to Calendar](https://www.evolvewomensnetwork.com/columbus-oh.html)** **What to Expect:** \~ Welcome team to greet you, introduce you to others, and make sure you feel a part of the group from your very first meeting \~ Welcome & Introductions: 15 second introductions \~ 15 Minute Speaker Spotlight: Member speaker who shares a bit of her story, how she got to doing what she does, and a tangible tip she uses to gain success in her business. No hard selling...no expectations. Simply giving the group an opportunity to get to know her and her journey. \~ 20 Minute Break Out Sessions: Small groups is where we connect best. Extroverted and Introverted alike get the opportunity to share on a deeper level and learn from one another. \~ Take Aways: Hear what the other groups talked about and share resources to grow yourself and your business \~ Grow Time!: Do you need a specific connection to a person, company, or industry? Share it with us! We love to open our networks to one another and grow together! Guests are always welcome. Please contact Mentor Director Donna Schomer at Donna@EvolveWomensNetwork.com for more information. We'd love to meet you!

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.