At RISE Collaborative, we recognize that knowledge and community are the driving forces behind entrepreneurial success. That’s why we’re excited to host the RISE Regional Innovation Summit for Entrepreneurs on October 19, 2024, in Danville, Virginia. Themed “Meet the Moment,” the RISE Summit is more than just an event—it’s a call to action for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey to seize the opportunities before them and elevate their business ventures.

We’ve curated a diverse lineup of visionary speakers who embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, each bringing a wealth of experience across various industries. These thought leaders aren’t just speakers; they are guides who will inspire you to take your business to the next level. Whether you’re looking to gain practical business advice, learn about the latest industry trends, or network with like-minded professionals, the RISE Regional Innovation Summit for Entrepreneurs is the perfect event to advance your entrepreneurial journey.

RISE Summit: Meet the Speakers
Carolina Medina

Carolina Medina

Community Investment Collaborative (CIC)
Charlottesville, VA

Derrick Ziglar Jr.

Derrick Ziglar Jr.

Ziglar Properties LLC & Generational GameChanger LLC
Martinsville, VA

Greg Preston

Greg Preston

Preston Farm LLC
Martinsville, VA

Jacob Cook

Jacob Cook

Southside Tech Services
Halifax County, VA

Jenn Kinne

Jenn Kinne

Letterpress Communications
Farmville, VA

Jocelyn Forest

Jocelyn Forest

Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC)
South Boston, VA

Lashawn Farmer

Lashawn Farmer

The Farmers Consulting & Connecting LLC
Danville & Pittsylvania County, VA

Luther Cifers

Luther Cifers

YakAttack
Based in Farmville, VA and distributed internationally

Lynne Mann

Lynne Mann

Greater Crater APEX Accelerator
Serving Virginia & North Carolina

Michael Scales

Michael Scales

Longwood SBDC Western Region
Martinsville, Henry County, & Patrick County, VA

Natalie Hodge Davis

Natalie Hodge Davis

Rudy's Girl Media
Martinsville, VA

Robin Allen

Robin Allen

Birdie's Pimento Cheese
Mecklenburg County, VA - Distributed Nationwide

Dr. Scott Lowman

Dr. Scott Lowman

Institute for Advanced Learning & Research (IALR)
Danville, VA

Stephen Davis

Stephen Davis

Community Investment Collaborative (CIC)
Charlottesville, VA

Telly Tucker, CEcD

Telly Tucker, CEcD

Institute for Advanced Learning & Research
Danville & Pittsylvania County, VA

Willis A. Morris

Willis A. Morris

Virginia Department of Small Business & Supplier Diversity

Meet the RISE Summit Speakers