Building an Equitable Economic Future

Speakers & Schedule

Welcome 9:00 - 9:13 am

Ahmad Holmes, President & CEO, CAACC

9:15 a.m. – 9:25 a.m. Ahmad Holmes, President & CEO, CAACC, will introduce

Dr. Tara Lynn Gray, 5th Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate

She will share insights on advancing African American entrepreneurship and economic growth through key CalOSBA Partner programs and statewide initiatives that expand opportunity, equity, and access to resources for small businesses across California.

9:25 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. California Transportation Opportunities for Small Businesses

Presentation by Toks Omishakin, Secretary of the California Transportation Agency Secretary Toks Omishakin, will lead a comprehensive discussion on emerging transportation opportunities for small and diverse businesses. He will highlight key resources, partnerships, and strategies designed to help firms grow, compete, and thrive in today’s evolving mobility landscape. The discussion will also address the U.S. Department of Transportation’s October 3, 2025 ruling and review the Caltrans Advisory on the DBE Program Interim Final Rule, issued by Norman Tuttle on October 7, 2025.

Moderator: Oakland Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Cathy Adams

Presentation by Toks Omishakin, Secretary of the California Transportation Agency

Short Break 10:15 a.m. – 10:25 a.m.

10:25 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Infrastructure & Energy

This panel will explore how small businesses can lead in California’s clean energy transition — through innovation, sustainability, and equitable access to resources. Speakers will share insights on leveraging renewable energy solutions, strategic partnerships, and forward-looking policies to reduce costs, expand market reach, and drive long-term, sustainable growth.

Moderator: SF African American Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Brigette LeBlanc

Panelists:

Wayne Barnett, Cordia Energy

Simeon Gant, Green Tech Education

Melanie Okoro, Eco-Alpha

Mitch Mitchell, Senior VP, Chief Legislative Officer, So.CA. Gas & San Diego Gas & Electric

Dr. Vic Baker, MBA, EILP, CMC, Founder & CEO, Equitify

Keynote Lunch 11:30 – 12:30 (Box Lunch)

Introduction Sponsors and Keynote

Pat Watts, Chairwoman, CAACC

Fireside Chat:

Moderator: Ahmad Holmes, President & CEO, CAACC

Mona Pasquil Rogers, Meta, Director of California State Policy

This session empowers small business owners and entrepreneurs to view artificial intelligence as an ally in growth, not a threat. Learn how to confidently and responsibly leverage Meta’s AI tools to enhance marketing, strengthen customer connections, and drive sustainable business success.

12:45 pm – 1:30 p.m. Communications in Business: The Impact of AI on Nonprofit Organizations and Small Businesses

This panel examines how advances in AI and digital communication are transforming small businesses and nonprofits. Panelists will share practical tools and strategies to boost efficiency, expand market reach, and enhance customer engagement—while addressing equity challenges such as digital access, literacy, and funding disparities in under-resourced communities.

Moderator: Board Member Dr. Vic Baker, MBA, EILP, CMC, Founder & CEO, Equitify