MIAMI – The University of Miami and its Health System (UHealth) are joining forces with Miami City Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones to host a free Business Opportunity Fair.
The event will be held Friday, May 22nd, at 9 am, at the Miami Jewish Home and Hospital in Little Haiti (5200 NE 2nd Ave.), and is open to owners of small businesses in the Liberty City, Allapattah, Wynwood, Overtown and Little Haiti neighborhoods that fill District 5.
“We want to empower these business owners,” said Spence-Jones, “and give them a chance to hear about different ways of expanding their opportunities. Teaming up with the University of Miami was a logical step.”
The day will consist of workshops and presentations aimed at helping business owners learn how to initiate business with the University. “UM is providing personnel from various business departments to provide instructions on how to maximize current opportunities with the local business community,” said Otis Jones, director of the Business Development Program for Women and Minorities at the University of Miami.
UM staff will be on hand to offer advice and share their expertise on business development as well as explain some of the intricacies of conducting business at major institutions, Jones said.
Some of the breakout sessions will focus on how to integrate ‘green’ technology into current practices, use digital technology to increase exposure and maximize the potential of family-owned businesses. Attendees will also have the opportunity to exchange ideas and share practical experience with experts during breakout sessions.
Representatives from The Launch Pad will be on hand to help provide direction for start-up businesses. The Launch Pad, led by Susan Amat, Ph.D., M.B.A, has been established to help UM students, alumni and faculty translate their ideas into working, practical business ventures. “We hope to bring that same teaching framework into these local businesses,” said Amat, “and create a framework for future success. This is just the beginning of our outreach to support the greater South Florida community.”
