Wilson Transition Team: Small Business & Entrepreneurship Economic Development Symposium
Overview
This is an open gathering for stakeholders in the small business and entrepreneurship ecosystem (Brick & Mortar, Retail, Restaurants, & Entrepreneurs) to provide feedback to Mayor-elect Katie Wilson's transition team. This gathering is specifically focused on "economic development & workers' rights," and its intersection and impact on entrepreneurship. This is an opportunity to show what collaborative government can look like when it is rooted in trust, transparency, and a genuine belief in the wisdom of the community.
Your contributions will help set the tone for the administration’s first year and shape a broader vision for the future. We are encouraging community stakeholders to embrace the participatory nature of this gathering. Be creative, listen generously, and challenge assumptions. We want you to bring bold and practical solutions to the table.
Policy Area(s):
Economic Development
Workers Rights
Objective:
Support the small business and local entrepreneurship to build a city for working families and grow economic development and vibrant neighborhoods.
Focus Areas:
Grow worker protections
Launch workforce training in high-growth sectors
Expand technical assistance and grants to small businesses and districts
Track job creation and income growth in underserved communities.
Key Issues:
Boost small business vitality by expanding capital, technical assistance, and growth opportunities.
Advance economic justice by removing barriers and increasing access to good jobs and income stability.
Expand youth employment through paid pathways that build skills and early career experience.
Strengthen workers and labor rights with fair wages, safe workplaces, and strong enforcement.
Grow generational wealth by helping families build assets and access stable, high-quality jobs.
Develop key industries through targeted training and partnerships that connect workers to high-growth careers.
Invest in neighborhood business districts to enhance local vibrancy, support entrepreneurs, and create more community jobs.
Participation Process:
RSVP to attend the event.
Provide your contact information (email + phone)
Indicate your areas of interest/expertise.
Upon confirmation, you will receive a guidance document to prepare you for the conversations.
Note: This meeting will be audio recorded for accurate note-taking, and no personal information will be attached or attributed to the notes. By attending the symposium, you agree to the media consent.
Public Disclosure & Transparency
As part of this administration’s transition, we expect openness and transparency in all policy and transition work. Please promptly disclose any real, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest related to contracting, grants, affiliations, or personal relationships. Disclosures should be updated as circumstances change and may be retained and publicly disclosed in accordance with public records and ethics laws. We track individual and organizational participation to ensure we hear from a broad and diverse range of community voices and ask that you be mindful of this transparency when sharing your thoughts.