August 22-25, 2025
A complete entrepreneurial education. A step by step guide to business success through raising capital and utilizing capital.
August 22-25, 2025
Discover a glimpse of what's inside:
Raising Capital
Interest Free
Raise Capital at 0% Interest without giving away any equity in your company.
Secure Funding Using Your EIN Only — no personal credit needed!
and more...
Experts in the industry investing advice
Decades of Learning in Just 4 Days — Fast-track your knowledge with industry leaders.
Discover Various Investment Opportunities and learn how to leverage your capital effectively.
and more...
How to structure your entities
Maximize Legal Protection and Tax Advantages with the right entity structure.
Tailor Your Business Structure to suit your financial and operational goals.
and more...
Join Andre and the other Speakers at FundFest to Master Raising Capital Interest Free, Experts in the Industry Investing Advice, to Structure your Entities and MORE...
Equip yourself with the insights and resources to shape your financial future with confidence. RESERVE YOUR SEAT NOW!
WHO IS THIS EXCLUSIVE EVENT FOR:
Learn Techniques and Decades in Just 4 Days
In-Person Strategy Sessions with Industry Experts:
Join us for immersive, hands-on coaching that will elevate your skills and knowledge to the next level.
Aspiring Leaders Looking to Grow:
If you want to develop winning strategies and advance your career, this event will teach you the difference between coaching and mentorship, and how both can accelerate your growth.
Professionals Seeking Practical Guidance:
Learn from experts who have real-world experience and discover actionable techniques that you can apply directly to your work and personal development.
Entrepreneurs Ready to Take Action:
Explore strategies that focus on practical implementation, helping you overcome challenges and scale your business with expert mentorship.
Coaches and Mentors Aiming to Hone Their Skills:
Gain insights into the key distinctions between coaching and mentorship, and how mastering both can help you guide others more effectively.
FUNDFEST
Connect with a dynamic community of individuals ready to reshape their financial futures, guided by expert insights from leaders Andre, Denise & more.
📍 Location:
HILTON GARDEN INN GERMANTOWN
6811 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38138
🗓️Date:
Thursday to Sunday
August 22-25, 2025
🕘Time:
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
VENUE
HILTON GARDEN INN
GERMANTOWN
6811 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38138
MEET YOUR HOSTS
Andre Williams Jr.
CEO of Experience Results
Andre Williams Jr. is the visionary CEO of Experience Results, a pioneering funding company dedicated to empowering business owners by providing them with access to capital without sacrificing equity. A dynamic leader and a passionate advocate for financial independence, Andre has transformed the landscape of entrepreneurial funding with his innovative solutions and strategic guidance.
As a distinguished speaker, Andre has graced the stage at a Forbes panel and delivered an inspiring TEDx talk, where he shared his insights on financial empowerment and business growth. His expertise and compelling vision have made him a sought-after voice in the industry, influencing countless entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Beyond his professional achievements, Andre is the founder of a Good Person Foundation focused on financial education. Through this initiative, he has made significant strides in promoting financial literacy and has generously provided over 100 meals to members of his community in Memphis, Tennessee. His commitment to social impact and community development underscores his dedication to making a difference both in business and beyond.
Andre’s journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep-seated belief in the power of knowledge and resources to transform lives. His work has not only elevated businesses but also fostered a culture of giving and empowerment in his community.
Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Andre continues to lead Experience Results with a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that business owners have the tools and support they need to thrive in a competitive market. His personal mission is to create a world where entrepreneurs can achieve their dreams without compromising their ownership and control.
KRISTIN NICOLE
Founder of Lash Gang Official
Kris is a trailblazing entrepreneur, lash coach, and sales innovator with over a decade of experience in the lash industry. She has seamlessly blended her background as a lash technician and corporate sales professional to empower beauty professionals in building six-figure careers.
Kris is dedicated to revolutionizing the beauty industry by equipping lash artists with proven sales strategies, entrepreneurial tools, and a sustainable path to success. Her approach combines strategic mentorship with a deep understanding of the beauty business landscape, making her a sought-after leader and educator.
Beyond her role in the beauty industry, Kris is a multifaceted entrepreneur. She is a mother, real estate investor, speaker, and the founder of a thriving digital agency. Her ventures reflect her passion for creating opportunities and inspiring others to achieve their personal and professional goals.
Kris’s mission is rooted in empowering beauty professionals to thrive confidently while fostering sustainable growth in their industries. Through her work, she is not only shaping careers but also transforming lives by sharing her vision and expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
MEET YOUR SPEAKERS
DR. DENISE NICHOLSON
CO-FOUNDER of Knitted Together
Dr. Denise Nicholson is an inspirational, insightful, TEDx, and transformational speaker with the gift of telling stories. She is an Amazon number one bestselling author and a native of Jamaica, West Indies. Denise migrated to Mount Vernon, New York when she was thirteen. She became a teenage mother who overcame many obstacles to become a successful entrepreneur.
Dr. Denise Nicholson is the co-founder of Knitted Together, a women’s empowerment organisation. Knitted Together specializes in healing from past traumas through therapeutic storytelling and custom tailored programs.
She is the founder of Bold Publishing Company. A publishing house that mentors and coaches first-time authors by helping them get their book idea out of their heads, onto paper, and making revenue.
She has mentored over a hundred writers to become authors and helped them build their book businesses. If you or anyone you know has a dream of becoming an author or you have written a book, Bold Publishing can help you create a six-figure income business framework. Contact them if you have any questions.
RON BROOKS
President, River City Capital
Ron Brooks is an experienced leader dedicated to connecting people to resources. Born in Chicago and raised in Memphis, he grew up as an active athlete, playing basketball and football throughout his childhood and into college. His academic pursuits led him to a career in banking, where he worked for 20 years before joining River City Capital as President in 2021.
Ron currently lives in Memphis with his wife Kimberly and their three daughters, ages 14, 13, and 12. He holds a BBA in Business Economics from the University of Memphis, an MBA in Organizational Leadership from Union University, and a certification from the Community Bankers of Georgia Compliance School in Lending Compliance and CRA.
Since 2002, Ron has proven himself an adept professional with success at Business/Commercial and Retail Administration roles. Today, as President at River City Capital, he works to enact a strategic vision and lead day-to-day operations through lending, technical assistance, fundraising, and more. He strives to maximize the potential of all community members by providing sustainable access to resources.
River City Capital launched in November 2010 as an affiliate of Community LIFT. River City is a local Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), certified by the U.S. Department of Treasury. We lead the way in the Memphis-Shelby County area in providing custom tailored small business loan and technical assistance options to meet your needs both now and into the future whether as a startup or an existing business.
MICHAEL THOMAS
Entrepreneur | Real Estate Investor | Leadership Mentor
Michael Thomas is an accomplished entrepreneur, real estate investor, mentor, and former Marine with a background rich in leadership, discipline, and resilience. A native of Northeastern Arkansas, Michael grew up on a one-hundred-acre farm where he developed a strong work ethic and a passion for learning, particularly in math and problem-solving.
Michael earned a degree in Electrical Engineering before embarking on a multifaceted career that included obtaining his insurance license, serving in the Marine Corps for over 16 years, and participating in Active Duty during Desert Storm. His leadership as a Team Leader for 144 Marines not only instilled discipline but also sharpened his ability to guide and inspire others—skills that have proven invaluable in his entrepreneurial ventures.
Following his service, Michael transitioned to civilian life as a network engineer for the Coast Guard in the San Francisco Bay Area. He later ventured into the financial sector as a mortgage loan originator and insurance professional. However, the 2008 financial crisis became a pivotal moment in his career, prompting him to reinvent himself and take control of his future.
Michael relocated to Memphis, TN, where he and his college sweetheart began investing in real estate. Combining his technical expertise, leadership acumen, and strategic planning skills, he recognized real estate as a powerful vehicle for both personal and professional growth. His commitment to helping others solve problems and achieve success has been central to his mission ever since.
Today, Michael Thomas is a respected figure in the real estate and business community, leveraging his diverse experiences to create opportunities and inspire others to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.
ROBY WILLIAMS
Former President, Black Business Association, Community Leader & Opportunity Facilitator
Roby S. Williams is a lifelong Memphian who graduated high school at 16 and earned a History degree from LeMoyne-Owen College, the 5th oldest HBCU. He began his career at First Tennessee Bank, where he became the first African American to serve as an assistant to the advertising director for the First Tennessee National Corporation.
Over the years, Roby built a diverse career in sales, including Yellow Pages advertising, telecommunications, mailing systems, radio, and television advertising. He later worked as a Mortgage Broker, financing new homes in Memphis.
In 2002, he became president of the Black Business Association, helping minority- and women-owned businesses succeed. Known as an “opportunity facilitator,” he is passionate about creating taxpayers and fostering community growth.
Roby actively serves on several Boards of Directors, including the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau, and Shelby Farms Parks Conservancy, among others.
BRYAN WINSTON
Founder of International Competition for Entrepreneurs (ICE)
Bryan K. Winston is a visionary leader in ecosystem development and edutainment, dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial success and innovation. As the founder of the International Competition for Entrepreneurs (ICE)
—the first-ever international, intercollegiate entrepreneurship competition for undergraduate student entrepreneurs—Bryan has revolutionized how emerging talent is identified, nurtured, and launched into the business world.
Under his leadership, ICE has facilitated the annual launch of dozens of startups, boasting an impressive success rate. Beyond individual ventures, the competition has served as a catalyst for building thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems both domestically and internationally. The networks and relationships forged through ICE have empowered stakeholders to collaborate, innovate, and drive economic development across diverse markets.
Bryan’s passion for combining education and entertainment has positioned him as a trailblazer in creating engaging, impactful programs that inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. His work not only sparks innovation but also strengthens communities by bridging connections between academia, industry, and global markets.
Atty. Henry E.
Reaves III, Esq.
Attorney, Founder & CEO of the Reaves Law Firm
Henry E. Reaves III is a sought-after speaker known for his engaging and impactful talks on youth empowerment, Black entrepreneurship, education, and community involvement. As the founder and CEO of The Reaves Law Firm, PLLC, Reaves is not only a respected attorney but also a passionate advocate for creating opportunities for youth to succeed.
His deep commitment to supporting Black business owners through networking and mentorship has made him a trusted voice in the entrepreneurial community.
Reaves emphasizes the importance of education as a key to unlocking personal and professional growth and regularly speaks on the need for investing in educational opportunities. His message centers around the power of family and commu- nity, urging individuals to uplift and support one another.
With his wealth of experience and dedication to making a difference, Reaves inspires audiences to take action in building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Raymond Brunner
Founder of Community Power House Energy Inc.
Business Acquisition Expert
As a Businessman, Raymond Brunner’s unrivalled experience in operational and management projects combined with his extraordinary leadership skills allow him to run an efficient and productive business. As a self-made man, Raymond chose to pursue his passion as a real estate investor. Driven by a steadfast devotion to his work, Raymond has single-handedly managed countless projects, led innumerable teams and he has spearheaded many ventures.
He founded Community Power House Energy Inc (2019) where he serves as the CEO and has just purchased an Environmental Construction company. Raymond Brunner has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Project management and Sport Management. Is a Six Sigma Green Belt, holds a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, and is a strong advocate for integrity, hard work, dedication, and pushing the limits of his own imagination. His personal mission is to help business owners, investors, and companies realize they can succeed no matter what. His professional interests are real estate, mergers, acquisitions, and renewable energy. While his personal interests are exercising, shooting, mixed martial arts, and of course spending time with his children.
Raymond is an avid reader with an engaging personality. He is most inspired by Robert Kiyosaki’s, “Cash flow Quadrant”. Raymond is influenced by unconventional ideas and inventions. He enjoys thinking out of the box, whether it is in his professional life or on a personal front.
As a family man, Raymond is a loving and caring father of two children: a 26-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter. Who he has led into entrepreneurship.
Raymond Brunner Biography Raymond has completed over 100 residential real estate transactions, built over 20+ new construction homes, constructed over five tactical fuel facilities using more than 200 acres of light industrial land, has completed over 50 residential solar projects, is a product development consultant to 3 brands, and has acquired 2 businesses.
Atty. J. B.
Smiley Jr. Esq.
Attorney, Author & Memphis City Council Vice Chair
JB Smiley Jr. is a Memphis native, attorney, author, and dedicated public servant committed to uplifting his community. Raised in a family that valued hard work and service, he developed leadership skills early on as a Cub Scout and through various jobs that shaped his work ethic.
After a successful collegiate and semi-professional basketball career, JB pursued law at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law, where he was actively involved in law review, moot court board, and served as vice president of the Black Law Students Association. He passed both the Arkansas and Tennessee Bar exams while writing his first book, Born With It: Unleashing Your Greatness.
In 2017, JB founded Smiley & Associates, PLLC, his Memphis-based law practice. Recognized as one of Memphis Flyer’s Top 20 Under 30, he later served as a policy advisor to the Shelby County Clerk before being elected to the Memphis City Council in 2019. Currently, JB serves as vice chair of the City Council, chair of the Public Works, Solid Waste & General Services Committee, vice chair of the Planning & Zoning Committee, and council liaison for the Urban Art Commission and the Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission.
Beyond his legal and political career, JB enjoys basketball, fitness, and spending time with his dog, Mighty Mouse, and nephew. He remains dedicated to public service, living by his father’s words: "Never forget the bridge that brought you over."
Mickell lowery
Community Leader, Business Executive & Public Servant
Mickell Lowery is a dedicated community leader, business strategist, and public servant, bringing a wealth of experience in corporate leadership and civic engagement. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from LeMoyne-Owen College and a Master’s in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas, he has built a strong foundation in both business and governance.
Currently serving as a Shelby County Commissioner, Mickell has been a driving force in numerous community initiatives, from serving on the Board of Trustees for LeMoyne-Owen College to mentoring youth and implementing after-school programs. His leadership extends to various organizations, including New Memphis, the Fire Museum of Memphis, and the Memphis Housing Authority, where he previously served as Chairman.
Beyond his public service, Mickell has had a 20+ year career at FedEx, holding key roles in Global Product Marketing, IT Strategy, and U.S. Sales, where he currently serves as Managing Director. Recognized for his excellence, he has received the prestigious FedEx Five Star Award and Sales Ambassadors Award. His contributions to leadership and community impact have earned him accolades such as Memphis Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40, Ebony Magazine’s Top 30 Under 30, and recognition from Diversity MBA Magazine.
As a graduate of Leadership Tennessee, Leadership Memphis, and the New Memphis Leadership Institute, Mickell continues to drive meaningful change in Memphis and beyond.
Jenni Graham
Visionary Entrepreneur & Founder of JCHIC LifeStyle® and JCHIC Foundation
Jenni JCHIC Graham is a 25-time award-winning brand strategist, luxury brand developer, and global speaker with over 20 years of experience in corporate America and entrepreneurship. As the visionary behind JCHIC LifeStyle®, she helps high-caliber entrepreneurs and corporations elevate their presence, refine messaging, and scale with purpose.
Formerly VP of Business Banking at SunTrust Bank, Jenni brings a wealth of financial expertise to her community. Her strategic branding and marketing mastery has landed her in top media outlets, making her a go-to expert in brand visibility, profitability, and marketability.
A philanthropic leader, Jenni founded the JCHIC Foundation (501c3) to address teen pregnancy and youth violence through arts, entrepreneurship, and technology. Her impact has earned her an honorary doctorate, two Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards, and her own day in Memphis. Through events like Convo to Currency, Vision to Action, and Sip Style and Socialize, Jenni continues to inspire, empower, and transform businesses and communities worldwide.
MILTON HOWERY III
VP of Marketing, Memphis Tourism
Milton Howery III, also known as "Milton Memphis," is a writer, publicist, and entertainment and tourism expert with over 16 years of industry experience. As Vice President of Marketing at Memphis Tourism, he has played a pivotal role in elevating Memphis’ global presence, including securing the city’s placement in Time Magazine’s Top 100 Destinations in 2021.
Beyond tourism, Milton is the founder of Milton Memphis Entertainment (MME), known for producing The Link Up Memphis and other major events. His career spans roles at Bass Pro Shops, Bott Radio Network, Entercom Communications, and WUMR U-92FM, shaping Memphis’ entertainment and media landscape. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and an Associate's Degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Memphis and Southwest Tennessee Community College.
Recognized for his impact, Milton has earned BET’s Top Marketing Intern honor, Memphis Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40 award, and the Top 40 Under 40 Urban Elite Professionals Award. He also serves on the Memphis PRSA Board and is a former Executive Committee member of the Public Relations Society of America Travel & Tourism Section, continuing his mission to amplify Memphis’ cultural and creative influence.
REp. Joe Towns Jr.
Veteran Tennessee State Representative & Community Advocate
Joe Towns Jr. is a dedicated public servant who has represented District 84 in the Tennessee House of Representatives since 1994. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from LeMoyne-Owen College and a Master of Science in Operational Management from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. Beyond his legislative role, Towns has experience as a college instructor, entrepreneur, and business owner.
Throughout his tenure, Towns has been an active member of various committees, including the Calendar and Rules Committee, Commerce Committee, Criminal Justice Committee, and Transportation Committee during the 2023-2024 legislative session. His longstanding commitment to public service is evident in his consistent re-elections, with the most recent being on November 5, 2024.
Joe Towns Jr. has been a steadfast advocate for policies that promote economic development, improve educational opportunities, and advance criminal justice reform in Tennessee. Throughout his career, he has worked to create legislation that supports small businesses, expands access to quality education, and ensures fair treatment within the justice system. His leadership is driven by a deep commitment to uplifting communities, fostering job growth, and advocating for policies that enhance the well-being of all Tennesseans.
THE TOP KEY TAKEAWAYS
Raise Capital from Anywhere
Learn actionable strategies to secure funding, no matter where you are in your business journey. Discover methods that align with your goals and make investors take notice.
Structure for Success
Understand how to structure your business to become "findable" and fundable by banks and financial institutions, increasing your chances of securing the capital you need.
Industry-Leading Growth Strategies
Explore cutting-edge strategies and opportunities from top industries that will help you scale your business and take it to the next level.
Leverage AI for Automation
Discover AI tools and resources that can automate critical business processes, saving time, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency to drive success.
Real-Time Implementation Opportunity
(Exclusive!) Get the chance to implement strategies on the spot during a live session, giving you an immediate edge and real-time results.
Gain The Knowledge And Tools To Take Charge Of Your Financial Future, Make Smart Choices, And Open Up New Opportunities For Growth And Empowerment.
SPONSORS
vendor tiers
Join FundFest 2025 as a vendor and showcase your products or services to a diverse audience of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals.
We offer three distinct sponsorship tiers designed to maximize your brand's exposure and engagement:
Tier 1
Standard Package
($300 only)
Booth Space: Secure a dedicated booth to display and promote your offerings.
Promotional Inclusion:
Feature your brand on our official Fund Fest website.
Marketing Materials: Distribute your flyers to attendees, enhancing brand visibility.
Tier 2
Premium Package
($500 ONLY)
All Standard Package Benefits: Enjoy all features included in
Tier 1.Enhanced Online Presence: Prominently display your logo on the Fund Fest website.
Billboard Advertising: Feature your logo on event billboards for increased visibility.
Stage Recognition: Receive verbal acknowledgment from the stage during the event.
Tier 3
Elite Package
($1,500 Only)
Comprehensive Exposure: Access all benefits from
Tiers 1 and 2.Stage Time: Present your brand directly to attendees with dedicated stage time.
Premium Billboard Placement: Gain prominent placement on event billboards for maximum exposure.
To secure your spot as a vendor, please click the button above to proceed to our registration and payment page.
BANKS
NEWS
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MARKETING AND PROMOTION
Lennard James
ENZO
TESTIMONIALS
5 Reasons Why You Must Join the FundFest
Why you don’t want to miss this event?
Raise Capital at 0% Interest Without Losing Equity
Fund Fest offers exclusive insights on raising capital at 0% interest, without giving away ownership or equity in your business. You’ll learn how to access funding with just your EIN, empowering your company with the financial resources it needs to thrive and grow.
Decades of Industry Knowledge in Just Three Days
Thein-person strategy sessions with industry experts provide a fast track to success. You'll gain access to decades of experience from leaders in funding, entrepreneurship, and business strategy, all condensed into a three-day intensive workshop. This event is designed to give you real-world techniques and strategies to implement immediately.
Expert Guidance on Structuring Your Business for Success
Fund Fest will dive deep into the importance of entity structuring, such as LLCs, C-Corps, non-profits, and trusts, helping you position your business to be fundable by banks and other entities. You'll learn how to maximize the benefits of different business structures to ensure your company is ready for growth.
Learn to Automate and Scale Your Business
Explore AI tools and systems that allow you to automate essential business processes. Fund Fest gives you the opportunity to implement these strategies on the spot, helping you
save time, reduce costs, and increase your business's efficiency right from the event.
Networking and Direct Access to Industry Experts
Fund Fest brings together top experts like Andre Williams Jr., Dr. Denise Nicholson, and other more, providing you with the unique opportunity to interact and gain advice from seasoned professionals. This event offers direct access to personalized coaching
on topics ranging from HR and corporate formation to taxes and real estate investments.
And more...