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SATURDAY / SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7-8

SATURDAY | DECEMBER 7

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7:30 PM | "EXODUS" Dinner hosted by Van Jones, Tony Ressler, Dr. William Lomax & John Hope Bryant (invite-only)

SUNDAY | DECEMBER 8

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5:00 PM | Salon Dinner co-hosted by U.S. News & World Report (invite-only)

Eric Gertler, Executive Chairman, U.S. News & World Report
Special Guest TBA

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9

8:00 AM | Registration Opens

DAYTIME PROGRAM

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9:00 AM | HGF Leadership Forum (Invite Only)

Honorable Raphael G. Warnock, U.S. Senator, Georgia
Joseph Otting, Former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency and Chairman, President and CEO, Flagstar

11:00 AM | ENTREPRENEUR ACCELERATOR

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11:00 AM | From Side Hustle to Sustainable Business

Getting Started: From Side Hustle to Sustainable Business

Moving from a side hustle to a sustainable business requires more than just passion—it takes planning, strategy, and a clear understanding of your market. This session will guide you through the crucial first steps of making this leap, beginning with evaluating your side hustle’s financial potential and identifying whether your product or service can scale. We’ll discuss how to conduct market research, validate your business model, and craft a roadmap for growth.

This session will cover the importance of building a strong foundation, including developing your business structure, understanding legal requirements, and creating a financial plan that supports your transition.

Key Questions:

How do you determine when your business is ready for the transition?
What are the potential pitfalls?
What is the most difficult part of transitioning your side hustle into a business?
What strategies can help grow your customer base to a sustainable business?
What financial indicators will indicate the right time to go full-time?

Kim “Kat” Shepherd, Western Regional Director, SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives)

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph B/C

12:00 PM | Securing the Funds to Fuel Your Business

Capital Quest: Securing the Funds to Fuel Your Business

Every business needs capital to grow, but finding the right funding sources can often be a daunting challenge for entrepreneurs. This session will demystify the process of securing capital, exploring the various options available—from traditional bank loans to venture capital, crowdfunding, and grants. You’ll learn how to assess the pros and cons of each funding method and determine which is the best fit for your business at different stages of growth.

From understanding investor expectations to crafting a compelling pitch, we’ll cover the key strategies you need to position your business for successful funding. In addition to exploring funding avenues, this session will provide actionable advice on how to prepare your financials and present your business as a viable investment opportunity. We’ll delve into what lenders and investors are looking for, how to negotiate terms, and the importance of building relationships that can lead to long-term funding partnerships.

Key Questions:

What factors should entrepreneurs consider when deciding between different funding options like loans, venture capital, or crowdfunding?
How important is a strong business plan or pitch when approaching investors, and what key elements should be highlighted?
What are some common mistakes entrepreneurs make when seeking funding, and how can they avoid them?
How do you maintain and build relationships with investors or lenders to secure long-term funding for future growth?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph B/C

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2:00 PM | Prioritizing Self-Care for Long-Term Success

The Balanced Entrepreneur: Prioritizing Self-Care for Long-Term Success

Entrepreneurship is a demanding journey, often marked by long hours, high stress, and the relentless pursuit of success. But without prioritizing self-care, the road to business growth can lead to burnout and fatigue. This session is designed to help entrepreneurs find balance by exploring the importance of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. You’ll learn practical strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries, and incorporating wellness practices into your daily routine—all essential for maintaining the stamina required for long-term success.

In addition to addressing personal health, we’ll explore how self-care directly impacts productivity, creativity, and decision-making as a business owner. Successful entrepreneurs will share their own experiences of how prioritizing self-care has improved both their personal lives and their businesses. By the end of this session, you’ll have actionable steps to create a self-care plan that supports not only your personal health but also the sustainability of your business for years to come.

Key Questions:

What practices can be most effective in practicing self-care amidst the demands of running a business?
How does neglecting self-care negatively impact your business or personal life, and how can you turn it around?
How can entrepreneurs practice self-care when they feel they can’t afford to take time off due to their business demands?
How does prioritizing mental and physical health positively impact business outcomes?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph B/C

3:00 PM | The Art of Marketing and Branding for Success

Stand Out: The Art of Marketing and Branding for Success

In today’s oversaturated market, capturing the attention of consumers and stakeholders is more challenging than ever. This session will provide participants with in-depth insights into the key elements of effective marketing and branding, essential for anyone looking to differentiate themselves or their business. Attendees will be introduced to the foundational principles of building a powerful brand identity, from defining core values and unique selling propositions to creating a cohesive brand narrative that resonates with target audiences. You’ll learn actionable strategies to not only attract attention but also create lasting connections with consumers through emotional engagement and authentic communication.

Through real-world case studies and interactive exercises, participants will explore the latest trends in digital marketing, personal branding, and storytelling. You’ll discover how to leverage social media, visual design, and authentic messaging to build a brand that resonates. Join us to unlock the secrets of successful branding and take your marketing efforts to the next level.

Key Questions:

What are the key elements that every successful brand must have to differentiate itself in a crowded market, and how can businesses identify their unique selling points?
How important is personal branding, and what steps should individuals take to build a personal brand that aligns with their professional goals?
What platforms and content strategies are currently most effective for reaching and engaging with target audiences?
How can businesses and individuals use storytelling to create a deeper connection with their audience?
How can small businesses with limited marketing budgets build a standout brand without extensive resources?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph B/C

2:00 PM | STRAIGHT TALKS

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2:00 PM | The Future of Cities and Communities

By 2050, over 70% of the global population will live in urban areas, making cities increasingly vulnerable to climate-related risks, including rising temperatures, flooding, and extreme weather events. Over 40% of renters in the United States are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on housing, with this percentage exceeding 50% in major metropolitan areas. Approximately 19 million Americans still lack access to high-speed internet, with rural and underserved urban communities most affected.

Much of the innovative thinking and creative solutions to the challenges facing cities are emanating from municipalities and their leaders. The conversation will highlight the critical role of public-private partnerships, community engagement, and innovative policy-making in addressing pressing challenges such as housing affordability, economic mobility, and technological inclusion. With an emphasis on empowering underserved communities and fostering economic opportunity, this session will provide a roadmap for leaders and stakeholders to rethink the future of urban spaces.

How can local leadership shape inclusive, sustainable urban environments that drive economic growth and social equity? What types of bold initiatives, best practices, and actionable solutions are working for building vibrant, equitable cities? What help is needed?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph A

3:00 PM | The Future of Rural Economies presented by Wells Fargo

Rural economies—both locally and internationally—are poised to play a vital role in driving economic growth. However, a series of challenges, such as technological disruption and population shifts, has slowed regions from seizing emerging opportunities for innovation and economic diversification. Increased investments in infrastructure, like high-speed internet, renewable energy, and modern transportation networks, may unlock the potential of rural communities.

By leveraging these advancements, rural economies can support not only traditional industries, like agriculture and natural resources, but also embrace new sectors, such as remote work, eco-tourism, and green technology.

Key Questions:

What are the key challenges rural economies face in adapting to technological and economic shifts, and how can they overcome these barriers to compete in a globalized market?
How can we foster investment in rural areas that delivers adequate returns?
What role do public-private partnerships and community-led initiatives play in revitalizing rural economies?
In what ways can rural economies diversify beyond traditional industries like agriculture and natural resources to ensure long-term economic resilience?

Tommie Beth Willis, South Georgia Regional Director, Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs

Moderated by: Bonnie Wallace, Head of Financial Health, Wells Fargo

LOCATION: Triumph A

4:00 PM | The Future of Wealth Creation

For many, traditional pathways to wealth—such as homeownership—remain a cornerstone of financial security, but several factors are complicating this foundational aspect of the American Dream. With housing prices soaring in some markets and affordability becoming an increasing challenge, how can average Americans still leverage homeownership as a means of building wealth? Emerging trends such as co-housing, real estate crowdfunding, and new government incentives are reshaping the housing market, making it possible for more people to invest in real estate in creative ways. Understanding these changes is crucial for those looking to use homeownership as a long-term wealth-building tool.

Beyond real estate, the democratization of investing and access to financial tools is giving individuals more control over their financial futures. From stock market participation to the rise of digital investment platforms, more people than ever are finding ways to grow their wealth. Additionally, innovations such as peer-to-peer lending, fractional ownership in assets, and even cryptocurrency are introducing new, and sometimes more affordable, paths to wealth creation. However, with these opportunities comes the need for enhanced financial literacy. Understanding how to invest wisely, manage risk, and plan for the future is more important than ever.

Key Questions:

With rising housing costs in many markets, how can first-time buyers still leverage homeownership as a key step toward building wealth?
What are some of the most effective investment strategies for individuals with limited capital, and how can they minimize risk while building long-term wealth?
Beyond real estate and the stock market, what other emerging opportunities exist for regular people to build wealth in today’s economy?
Financial literacy is critical for wealth creation—what are the most important skills or knowledge areas individuals need to focus on when planning their financial future?
What role can public policy play in making wealth creation more accessible, particularly for underrepresented or lower-income communities?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph A

EVENING PROGRAM

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5:00 PM | Executive Welcome Reception (invite-only)

5:00 PM | Networking Cocktail Reception

6:00 PM | Opening Reception / Dinner

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6:40 PM | The Future of AI

Moderated by:

7:20 PM | The Big Think with Dr. Frank Luntz

8:00 PM | Inside HOPE Inside

The Future of Financial Literacy

David Bradley, Operation HOPE Client
Yajaira Lugo, Operation HOPE Coach
Kalene McElveen, Operation HOPE Client
Venison Nelson, Operation HOPE Client
Eli Tully, Operation HOPE Coach

Moderated by:

8:30 PM | Entertainment

Special Guest: 2X Grammy-Award Winning Hip-Hop Legends
Arrested Development

9:30 PM | Program Concludes

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10

7:00 AM | Registration Opens

MORNING AGENDA

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7:30 AM | Networking Breakfast

7:30 AM | Executive Welcome Breakfast “Titans of Public Speaking”(invite-only)

Les Brown, Motivation Legend
Dr. George Fraser, Chairman and CEO, Fraser Net
Dr. Willie Jolley, Hall of Fame Speaker and SiriusXM Host

9:00 AM | STRAIGHT TALKS

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The Future of Women and Minority-Owner Business

The rise of women- and minority-owned businesses represents one of the most significant and transformative trends in entrepreneurship today. Historically underrepresented and often overlooked, these businesses are gaining momentum, challenging the status quo, and shaping a more inclusive economic future. However, despite their increasing presence, women and minority entrepreneurs continue to face systemic challenges, including limited access to capital, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and barriers to scaling their businesses. The question now is: how can we ensure that these businesses not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace?

The future of women- and minority-owned businesses hinges on providing equitable opportunities for growth. From innovative funding models, such as venture capital targeted at underrepresented founders, to mentorship networks and digital tools that help level the playing field, new pathways are emerging to support these entrepreneurs. Additionally, there is growing recognition of the economic and social value that diverse businesses bring to communities and industries.

Key Questions:

What are the most significant barriers that women and minority entrepreneurs face when trying to access capital, and how can the financial industry evolve to better support these business owners?
How can women- and minority-owned businesses leverage technology and digital platforms to overcome traditional barriers to market access and scaling?
What role do mentorship, networks, and community support play in the success of women and minority entrepreneurs, and how can these resources be made more accessible?
What innovations have been successful, and how can policy changes at the local, national, or international level create more equitable opportunities for women- and minority-owned businesses?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph B/C

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The Future of Financial Services

Traditional banking models are being challenged by agile fintech startups, decentralized finance (DeFi) systems, and digital currencies like Bitcoin and stablecoins, all of which are reshaping how people interact with money. Consumers are no longer content with slow, cumbersome processes—they expect seamless, real-time transactions, personalized financial products, and on-demand access to their financial information. This shift is pushing financial institutions to adapt, invest in technology, and rethink their role in the broader economy. The future of financial services will be defined by this race to innovate, while simultaneously addressing growing concerns around security, regulation, and financial inclusion.

At the core of this transformation are emerging technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics. But with these opportunities come challenges: data privacy, cybersecurity risks, and the potential for regulatory gaps that could expose consumers to new kinds of vulnerabilities. This session will explore how financial institutions can balance innovation with responsible governance, ensuring that technological advances benefit all sectors of society, including traditionally underserved communities. The future of financial services is one of both promise and complexity, and understanding the trends and challenges ahead will be crucial for anyone looking to thrive in this evolving landscape.

Key Questions:

What role will traditional banks and financial institutions play in the future?
How can innovations in financial services be leveraged to ensure that underserved populations have better access to banking, credit, and wealth-building opportunities?
What are the most significant regulatory challenges in the financial services industry, particularly with the rise of fintech and digital currencies?
How are fintech startups pushing the boundaries of financial services, and what lessons can larger financial institutions learn from these more agile competitors?
How can financial services companies foster trust in an increasingly digital and decentralized world?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Magnificent 3 – 3rd floor

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The Future of Community and Connection

Technology is reshaping human interaction, allowing people to transcend geographical boundaries and form communities online that were once only possible in physical spaces. Social media, virtual platforms, and digital tools now enable individuals to create shared spaces for collaboration, activism, and personal connection. This session will explore how these new modes of communication are altering the definition of community, offering unprecedented opportunities to bring people together around shared values and interests. However, as we embrace these innovations, we must also confront the challenges they bring—such as the risks of online isolation, the erosion of genuine connection, and the spread of misinformation within digital networks.

The future of community and connection lies in our ability to blend the digital and physical worlds, creating hybrid spaces that foster deeper relationships, mutual understanding, and shared purpose. As we look ahead, it will be essential to consider how we can design inclusive and resilient communities that nurture well-being and social cohesion.

Key Questions:

What are the key elements that make a community—whether physical or virtual—feel inclusive and supportive?
How can technology be harnessed to enhance human connection without losing the core elements of empathy and authenticity that form the basis of meaningful relationships?
How can we ensure that online communities foster genuine, meaningful connections rather than promoting isolation or superficial engagement?
What role do physical spaces still play in building community in a world dominated by digital interaction, and how can we integrate these two forms of connection?
How can businesses, organizations, and nonprofits leverage online communities to foster a deeper sense of purpose and connection with their audiences?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph A

9:30 AM | Opening Plenary (Doors Open)

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10:10 AM | Partner Spotlight: Truist

10:30 AM | The Future of Stakeholder Capitalism

Moderated by:

11:15 AM | The Future of Sports

Moderated by:

11:55 AM | Partner Remarks: U.S. Bank

AFTERNOON AGENDA

12:00 PM | Lunch Plenary (Doors Open)

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12:30 PM | Partner Spotlight: Huntington Bank

Moderated by:

12:45 PM | The Future of Democracy

Moderated by:

1:30 PM | IDEA LABS

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The Future of Work

Automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics are not only revolutionizing industries but are also reshaping the very nature of employment. Jobs that once required human labor are increasingly being performed by machines, while new roles are emerging that demand a different set of skills. This evolution is forcing both businesses and individuals to adapt in real-time, with digital literacy, creativity, and problem-solving becoming essential for success in the modern workforce. Remote work, once a growing trend, has now become a staple in many industries, requiring organizations to rethink how they manage teams, measure productivity, and foster collaboration across virtual spaces.

However, the future of work is about more than just technological advancements; it also encompasses the human side of the workforce. As work evolves, so too must the systems and policies that support it. Issues like mental, physical, and financial well-being, fair wages, and job security are becoming central to the conversation as workers demand more from their employers, pushing for environments that prioritize not just efficiency but also humanity.

Key Questions:

How can we reskill and upskill our workforce to remain competitive in the future?
As mental, physical, and financial well-being becomes increasingly important in the workplace, how can organizations create environments that prioritize employee wellness while maintaining high performance?
What role, if any, does DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) have in the workplace?
What role should governments and policymakers play in supporting workers in the transition to a more automated, digital economy, particularly in terms of job security, fair wages, and benefits?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph B/C

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The Future of Financial Inclusion

As the world continues to innovate and economies grow more interconnected, the benefits of this progress have not been equally shared. Many individuals and communities—especially those marginalized by race, gender, geography, or socioeconomic status—remain excluded from the financial and economic systems that drive prosperity. The future of economic inclusion hinges on our ability to create new pathways that allow everyone to participate in and benefit from the economy, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Technology is playing a pivotal role in driving this transformation, with tools such as digital banking, fintech innovations, and microfinance enabling greater access to financial services for those who have traditionally been left out. However, economic inclusion is about more than just technology—it requires a structural shift in how businesses, governments, and communities address deep-rooted inequalities. Public policies, corporate strategies, and community initiatives must work in concert to dismantle systemic barriers such as unequal access to education, healthcare, and capital.

Key Questions:

Does the private sector have a role in supporting economic inclusion? If so, how can they best contribute?
How can we ensure that efforts are not just short-term fixes but lead to lasting and transformative change?
How can public policy and government initiatives effectively address barriers to economic inclusion?
What role do education and skills training play in achieving economic inclusion, particularly in regions where access to quality education is limited?
How can we better integrate informal economies?

Moderated by:

LOCATION: Triumph A

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The Future of Affordable Housing

The rising cost of housing is no longer an issue confined to major cities—it is a global crisis affecting urban, suburban, and rural communities alike. As housing prices surge, millions of people are facing the harsh realities of being priced out of their neighborhoods, spending increasing portions of their income on rent or mortgages, or struggling to find stable housing altogether. The future of affordable housing will play a critical role in determining the economic and social stability of societies around the world.

However, solving the affordable housing crisis requires more than just new construction methods or financial models; it demands a comprehensive rethinking of how we view housing policy, urban development, and social equity. Zoning restrictions, exclusionary practices, and systemic inequalities in access to land and capital have historically hindered the growth of affordable housing. Some policymakers and urban planners have begun taking a more inclusive approach, promoting the integration of affordable housing into economically diverse neighborhoods without triggering displacement or gentrification.

Key Questions:

What innovative financing models are emerging to help fund affordable housing projects, especially in communities that have traditionally been underserved by conventional developers?
What are the most significant barriers to scaling affordable housing solutions, and how can governments, developers, and communities work together to overcome them?
How can communities effectively address the growing tension between gentrification and the need for affordable housing?
What role does housing play in broader efforts toward economic inclusion, and how can we ensure that affordable housing policies promote long-term wealth-building for residents?

Moderated by: Eric Kaplan, Sr. Advisor, Milken Institute, and Managing Director, AI Ethics Council, Operation HOPE

LOCATION: Magnificent 3 – 3rd floor

2:45 PM | Power Networking Break (Triumph Foyer)

3:00 PM | Afternoon Track

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3:00 PM |Partner Spotlight: Mastercard

3:10 PM |The Future of Opportunity

Moderated by:

3:45 PM |The Future of Excellence

4:15 PM |The Future of Media and Communications

Moderated by:

4:45 PM |Partner Spotlight: Wells Fargo

5:00 PM | The Future of Mental Health

Moderated by:

5:45 PM | Social and Networking Reception

Location TBD

6:30 PM | CEO Dinner (invite-only)

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11

7:00 AM | Registration Opens

FINAL AGENDA

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8:00 AM | Executive Roundtables (invite-only)

U.S. Treasury Roundtable: National Strategy for Financial Inclusion

Money Moves: Power up your Financial Future

Come join the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) as they share new tools and resources available to you to help your work with the consumers you serve day to day. The CFPB also wants to hear from you. Come share your insights that will help them inform their work.

8:45 AM | Opening Plenary (Doors Open)