February 27 - March 1, 2025
Contact Us
Join The Planning Committee
Interested in being on The B.E.A.T.S. Planning Committee?
We're looking for people who are:
A center of influence
Able to attend the annual B.E.A.T. Summit
Able to attend at least one (1) bi-weekly virtual meeting per month
Can make introductions to potential sponsors and vendors
Meet The Team
Randolph Love III, ChFC®, CLU®, CPCU®
President and Founder of ShieldWolf Strongholds
Randolph Love III, is the Founder and President of ShieldWolf Strongholds, a Fractional CFO company that specializes in providing Business and Franchise Owners with all of the perks and benefits of having a full time Chief Financial Officer and Business Succession Planner, but for a fraction of the price.
He is a Partner and Consultant with The Franchise Consulting Company; the largest American owned franchise consulting company in the world.
He is the Author of the forthcoming Financial Literacy book, "The Miracle Money Vehicle: How To Make Money Make Babies;" which gives individuals and business owners a step by step guide on what they need to do to have the option to retire, or exit their current position in less than 5-10 years, with properly structured, and funded Trusts and Tax Strategies.
Also, he is the host of, "The Entreprenudist Podcast: The Place To Hear Real Entrepreneurs and Business Owners BARE IT ALL;" ranked in the TOP 10% of podcasts for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs by ListenNotes.com.
Ciera Peters
COO at ShieldWolf Strongholds | Owner of 8th and Now
Ciera Peters, is Chief Operating Officer at ShieldWolf Strongholds, a Fractional CFO company that specializes in providing Business and Franchise Owners with all of the perks and benefits of having a full time Chief Financial Officer and Business Succession Planner, but for a fraction of the price.
She is also the founder of 8th and Now, a start up business coaching and project management company. 8th and Now helps business with overall foundational concepts, including short and long term goal planning, running efficient staff meetings, setting core values, establishing an accountability chart, email and sms automation buildouts, and basic website buildouts.
Christopher Lewis
VP Corporate Development at AIAG
Chris Lewis currently serves as Vice President, Corporate Development & Engagement for the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), after spending 7 years in higher education administration. Chris is responsible for developing strategic relationships with a primary focus on Southeast, Southwest USA, and Mexico.
Prior to AIAG, Chris served for 3 community college systems including the Alabama Community College System, Rock Valley College (IL) and Aims Community College in (CO). His leadership rolls included Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dean of Workforce Development, VP Workforce Development, Assistant to the Chancellor, and interim President.
Chris has also served as a Financial Services Representative with Principal Financial Group where he helped individuals, families, and businesses with their financial goals.
Lewis served as President & CEO of the South Region Minority Supplier Development Council (SRMSDC). The SRMSDC is a non-profit corporation chartered to enhance business opportunities for minority-owned companies by providing support through developing mutually beneficial networking opportunities with corporate members and promoting minority- business development.
Shawana Boyer
Florida Realtor and Founder of Black Owned Businesses Jax
Shawana "SynSha" Boyer is an accomplished entrepreneur and real estate professional. As the owner and creator of SynSha' Fashions, she pioneered one of Jacksonville, Florida’s first mobile boutiques. A realtor with Florida Homes Realty & Mortgage, Shawana has closed over $5 million in deals since obtaining her license in March 2022. She is the founder of the Black Owned Businesses Jacksonville (BOBSJAX) FB group with over 12,000 members.
Shawana has a passion for helping families achieve their real estate dreams and supporting aspiring boutique owners through her trademarked businesses, "Build Your Own Boutique" and "Branding Like A Boss" masterminds. Her recent venture, Shawana Boyer Enterprises-The Blessed House, is a group home aimed at providing support to those in need.
She is a published author of “Who is She: The Unseen Sides of Every Woman,” and has received numerous accolades including Top 20 Under 40 with Black Pages South (2016) and Mrs. Jacksonville 2019-2020. A former educator, Shawana has taught business courses and remains active in her alma mater, Edward Waters University, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
In 2018, she launched "Pretty Pearls and Clutches," an annual fashion empowerment brunch. Shawana is dedicated to connecting and collaborating to make a positive impact.
Darrick O'Day
Founder at Pine Hills Property Claims
Mr. Darrick O'Day's career is a fascinating blend of construction, real estate, and insurance, creating a unique tapestry of expertise. Recently, Mr. O'Day has directed his formidable skills towards the property insurance claims arena, where he has swiftly become a renowned authority. His work in advocacy for policyholders is legendary, often involving expert opinions and a knack for resolving disputes that leverage his deep well of experience and sharp negotiation skills.
Mr. O'Day is known for his poignant remark: "When property claims go unpaid, families don't take vacations, businesses don't reopen, and children don't go to college." This statement reflects his passionate commitment to protecting wealth and fostering economic mobility in diverse communities. With a proven track record of success, Mr. O'Day is excited to continue his journey as a valuable asset to new teams, just as he has consistently been in the past.
Tiffany Williams
Licensed Cosmetologist & Esthetician | Owner of Creatiff Image Beauty Bar
With over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, Tiffany stands out as a licensed cosmetologist and esthetician dedicated to enhancing clients' natural beauty. As a seasoned professional, Tiffany has honed a unique blend of technical skills and artistic flair.
Driven by a passion for beauty and wellness, Tiffany has built a business prioritizing personalized care and client satisfaction. The expertise in both cosmetology and esthetics allows Tiffany to offer a comprehensive range of services, ensuring each client leaves feeling confident and rejuvenated.
Whether working with individuals seeking a new look, cancer survivors needing a confidence boost, or anyone in need of a quick hair solution, Tiffany provides exceptional service with a personal touch.
T. R. Richardson
Chief Training Officer at Richwood International
T.R. Richardson is a renowned Speaker, Trainer, and Facilitator dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their goals. With a background in Psychology, Business, and Leadership Development from Florida International University, he has trained over 400,000 people nationwide through in-person and virtual sessions.
As the Chief Training Officer at Richwood International, T.R. specializes in Leadership, Communication Skills, and Team Building. He serves as a Board Member of The $1,000 Start-Ups Consortium and the previous Executive Director of The Nassau Racial Equality Coalition. Recognized as a TIME Magazine "Person of The Year" in 2006, T.R. is also the author of "Overcoming: Top Tips For Conquering Speech Anxiety."
T.R. holds certifications in Modern Classroom Virtual Training, Six Sigma - White Belt, Professional Life Coaching, and Leadership Development. His entrepreneurial efforts were recognized by the University of North Florida’s Swisher Start-up Cohort for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs, and he was a finalist in several pitch competitions.
In 2024, HR Tech Outlook honored him as one of the Top 20 Leadership Development Training/Coaching Companies. Committed to excellence, T.R. Richardson continues to inspire and empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential.
Dr. Felicia Fortune
CEO at Kidsxpress Urgent Care
Visionary, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Dr. Felicia Fortune is CEO of Fortune Global Enterprise and KidsXpress Urgent Care. She has forged a successful career with an emphasis on exceptional leadership, which is exemplified by numerous accolades received over the years. She was named among Birmingham Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40 Business Executives in 2017, received the 2022 Outstanding Honorary Achievement for a Lifetime Award, 2023 Woman of Distinction Award and the 2024 Presidential Barack Obama Legacy Lifetime Achievement Award.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Fortune continued to forge ahead in the healthcare niche by identifying and responding to internal and external challenges adeptly. She demonstrated what it means to be adaptable by providing world-class medical care solutions at a time when people globally were struggling to find such due to shutdowns and understaffing.
No matter where she goes, Dr. Fortune blazes a trail for others by way of her philanthropic and entrepreneurial prowess. She looks forward to helping even more people in 2025 and beyond.
Deonse Blackwell
Business Consultant at Blue Tie Consulting
Deonse Blackwell is a distinguished entrepreneur renowned for his impactful collaborations within the music and entertainment industry. With an impressive portfolio, Deonse has worked with some of the biggest names in the business, including Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, DPG, Gunna, Chris Brown, Dylan Gonzalez, Justin Bieber, Pressa, and Lil Baby. His ventures span various aspects of the industry, demonstrating a versatile and dynamic approach to business.
Deonse's ability to foster relationships and create successful partnerships with top-tier artists showcases his exceptional networking skills and deep understanding of the entertainment landscape. His innovative strategies and dedication to excellence have not only earned him a respected reputation but have also significantly contributed to the success and visibility of the artists he collaborates with.
With a keen eye for talent and a passion for driving creative projects, Deonse Blackwell continues to make a substantial mark in the world of music and entertainment, paving the way for future successes and groundbreaking endeavors.
Kristopher Taylor
CEO of Taylor Pro Painting & Contracting
Taylor Pro Painting and Contracting offers painting solutions of exceptional quality that will change your home or business’ appearance.
Since 1978, we have valued our attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and professional paint jobs to our clients’ walls and surfaces. With over 46 of years of industry experience, our team is experts in art and technique and can help you renew your establishment or renew your property's beauty with the highest quality paint products. We offer services from the exterior and interior painting to pressure washing and paint removal
Mark Bullock
Engineer at 52 Basketball
Mark Bullock is a passionate entrepreneur and community leader with over 20 years of experience creating businesses and building meaningful connections. As the CEO and founder of Blacktop Holdings, he has successfully led innovative projects and developed impactful partnerships. Through Gstate Productions, Mark has brought people together by managing events at venues like NJPAC and the Prudential Center, ensuring every detail reflects his dedication to excellence.
Mark’s commitment to service extends beyond business. As a firefighter and EMT in Linden, NJ, for over a decade, he earned multiple life-saving awards, demonstrating his dedication to protecting and helping others. He is also an advocate for accessibility and inclusion, inspired by his experience as a father to a child with disabilities, a journey he shares in his book, The Million Dollar Baby.
A lifelong learner, Mark holds degrees in Electronics Engineering, Technical Management, and an MBA in Project Management. Recognized for his leadership and community contributions, he continues to focus on creating opportunities that benefit those around him. Whether through business, events, or advocacy, Mark’s work reflects his passion for making a positive and lasting impact.
Register To Join the Planning Committee!
We will be contacting you soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions answered.
General
What kind of franchises can I expect?
The B.E.A.T. Summit will feature a diverse range of franchises across various industries to cater to a wide array of interests and entrepreneurial goals. Here are some types of franchises you can expect to see:
1. Food and Beverage Franchises: Including fast food, casual dining, coffee shops, and specialty food vendors.
2. Retail Franchises: Covering everything from apparel and accessories to health and beauty products.
3. Service-Based Franchises: Such as cleaning services, home maintenance, and personal care services.
4. Health and Fitness Franchises: Including gyms, wellness centers, and specialty fitness studios.
5. Education and Tutoring Franchises: Focused on after-school programs, tutoring services, and educational materials.
6. Technology Franchises: Covering sectors like IT services, tech support, and digital marketing.
7. Real Estate Franchises: Including property management, real estate brokerage, and investment opportunities.
8. Childcare Franchises: Options for daycare centers, educational childcare programs, and related services.
9. Automotive Franchises: Including repair shops, car rentals, and specialty automotive services.
10. Home Improvement Franchises: Covering landscaping, remodeling, and home decor services.
Is there a charge to attend?
Yes. General admission is $275 and VIP access is $475, and space is limited. However, the first 50 general admission tickets and the first 25 VIP tickets can get up to 90% off the ticket price when using promo code "SAVE90" at checkout. Click Here to see if you are one of the first and get your discounted tickets today!
Where/when will the summit be held?
The Black Entrepreneurship and Technology Summit will be held on February 27 - March 1, 2025 at the Tuskegee Municipal Complex located at 101 Fonville St.Tuskegee, AL 36083.
Is this summit only for Black people?
No. This summit is not only for Black people. We do focus on ensuring that Black people have access to the latest business knowledge and technology to help ensure success in their endeavors. That said, all are welcomed, of every race and creed who want to learn more about franchising, the Metaverse, and other web3 and Blockchain technologies.
What should I wear?
While there is no dress code, a lot of people who attend this summit will likely be dressed formally or business casual. It's better to dress in whatever way you feel comfortable when meeting new friends and potential business partners!
Will Wi-Fi be available?
Yes, Wi-Fi will be available.
Can I bring my child(ren) to the conference?
Attendance is limited to individuals over the age of 18. If your child is over the age of 18 and did not purchase a ticket in advance, they will be denied entry.
Will meals be provided with my ticket purchase?
Lunch will be provided for all 3 days. Dinner on Day 2 will be for VIP ticket holders ONLY. You can provide any dietary needs in the survey that comes with your confirmation email.
I have special accessibility needs/dietary requirements; can you accommodate me?
Upon purchasing a ticket, each attendee will be sent a survey to complete. This survey includes sections for you to detail any special accessibility needs or dietary requirements you have. This will help us accommodate everyone’s needs.
Will recordings be available?
All 3 days of the summit will be recorded and recordings will be available after the event to VIP attendees. We will send out details on how to get access to the recordings after the event.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
You can reach out to us at [email protected], and we aim to respond within 24 hours.
Tickets & Registration
Are there any discounts available for group registrations or early bird bookings?
The first 100 general admission tickets and the first 70 VIP tickets can get up to 90% off the ticket price when using promo code "SAVE90" at checkout. Click Here to see if you are one of the first and get your discounted tickets today!
Can I buy tickets on-site on the day of the event?
No, tickets must be purchased online in advance to attend the event. You can make your purchase here.
Are there any one-day tickets for sale?
We don’t offer one-day tickets for this event. We encourage you to take advantage of our full-event pass to make the most out of your experience!
When can I expect to receive my e-ticket after placing an order?
After placing your order, you will receive a confirmation email with your unique QR code, SAVE THIS EMAIL! Also, go ahead and complete the survey inside that confirmation email, so we can be know of any dietary or accessiblity needs. Once we get closer to the event, we will send detailed instructions on how/where to check in.
Can't find your confirmation email? What should you do?
In case you're on the hunt in your inbox, look for all emails from [email protected]. Also, check your spam folder. If still nothing you can reach out to that same email to get assistance.
Can I get a refund if I'm unable to attend after registering?
Unfortunately, we do not offer refunds. All sales are final.
Volunteers, Donors, & Sponsors?
Can I be a volunteer?
YES, you can be a volunteer. Click here to let us know you're interested.
How can I donate to the cause?
Thanks for asking! You can make a monetary donation here.
How can I donate swag or other non monetary things?
We appreciate ALL donations, monetary or otherwise. If you have a non monetary donation, please email us at [email protected]
Can I be a sponsor?
We'd love to have your organization be a sponsor. We offer a range of sponsorship packages tailored to meet different needs and budgets. Our team will be happy to discuss the available options and work with you to create a customized sponsorship package that aligns with your goals. Click here to let us know you're interested and someone will give you a call.
Hotel and Travel Accommodations
I am coming from out of town, are there any group rates for hotels?
You can reserve your hotel room with exclusive group rates at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Auburn - University Area. Located at 2013 South College Street, Auburn, AL.
Will there be a shuttle from the hotel to the summit?
Yes. Transportation to and from the event and the hotel will be provided.
Is there parking on site at the summit?
Yes, parking is available.
Contact Us
904.822.4262
Tuskegee Municipal Complex
101 Fonville St.
Tuskegee, AL 36083