Historic MBO-to-MBO Trade Conference
"Huge Success"
Over 100 enthusiastic attendees from across the state gathered at the Tacoma Community Trade and Conference Center to witness and participate in the historic MBO-to-MBO Trade Conference. Dave Tyner, Chairman of the African-American Partners For Prosperity (AAPP), co-sponsor of the event, set the tone for the conference in his opening remarks by exalting MBO's to use the conference as a means for networking, connecting, and collaborating. Pierce County Executive John Ladenburg, Representative John McCoy, Seattle Council Member David Della, William Bradford, Craig Dawson and James Kelley continued building upon that common theme of creating greater access and opportunity for MBO's as part of the state and regional economic agendas.
However, the conference received its greatest tractions from its industry champions in architecture, engineering, construction, clean technology, information technology and professional services and consulting. Champions in these industries and disciplines told compelling personal and professional stories of their struggles, challenges and successes while giving antidotal advice and counsel.
Keynote Speaker King County Executive Ron Sims gave an electrifying and rousing speech regarding MBO's courage, resilience and ability despite I-200 to not only survive during difficult times but instead being among the fastest growing segment in Washington State's economy representing some 13 billion dollars in revenues annually.
With an average rating of 5.16 of a possible 6.0, attendees expressed their overwhelming satisfaction and confirmation that the conference had indeed achieved its stated objectives and had in meaningful ways far exceeded their expectations. Conference co-sponsors also expressed that satisfaction and pledged their complete support of next years MBO-to-MBO trade conference. The Board and Affiliate Board of AAPP wishes to extended its profound gratitude and heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to making this historic MBO-to-MBO Trade Conference successful and building upon that success looks forward to an even greater conference next year.