Monday, August 10, 2009

Facebook Party v1.0

People use social networking websites for many different reasons. Some to stay in touch with long lost friends... Some to meet business owners/customers...Some to meet new friends.

This past Saturday I was able to help bring some of these people together. I co-hosted my first facebook party. It was a very interesting turnout.

Some people use facebook to socialize....I am trying to use facebook to make some $$$$$

"Question of the Night #1".......................


Vernard

Friday, August 7, 2009

Start Up Grants?

At least once a week someone ask me about Start Up Grants. Where can I obtain them? How can I get money to start a business? In my experience it is very rarely to find grants or organizations that give money in the start up phrase. The PA State of Innovation has a website designed to let residents know about assistance programs. These are mostly grants or low interest loans for businesses/non profits. The grants/loans can be used for Community and Economic development, Entrepreneurial Assistance, Workforce Development assistance and more. For more information log onto: http://www.newpa.com/find-and-apply-for-funding/funding-and-program-finder/index.aspx

Vernard

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Golf Outing

On Saturday, August 15, 2009 Im-mack-ulate Impressions and the Minority Networking Exchange will host 2nd Annual Golf Outing. The outing will take place at Westwood Golf Course in West Mifflin PA. Give me a call if you're interested in participating or sponsoring the event.


Vernard

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Why do you need a logo?

A Logo is part of your branding. When you see the Golden Arches what do you think of? McDonalds. In all of their advertising you see a logo of the Golden Arches. People will take you more seriously if your business has a logo. Your business will look more complete with your marketing materials. Stand out, be creative, be different.



Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Fave Five

Do you own a cell phone? Do you have a black book? Can you name 5 people that can help you obtain employment? Can you name 5 people that can give you business resources? If you can't answer the last two questions, you need to reevaluate who's telephone number is in your black book or cell phone! Who can you trust to help you? Networking is the KEY to SUCCESS! You need to start NETWORKING to build your contact list!

Vernard

Friday, May 22, 2009

REINVENTED

Reinvent: Create over and renew!


Reinvented: Giving up is not an option!


Thank you for the support of the Minority Networking Exchange. We have accomplished a lot over the last two plus years. There are a lot of great opportunities in Western PA. It's time to come together, support and embrace local entrepreneurs. Are you ready to achieve your maximum potential? Over the next couple weeks, MNE will be revealing and reinventing some new and old events. I look forward to your continued support and participation.

Thank you


Vernard

Friday, March 20, 2009

Networking Night Cap 3/18/09








I love networking and connecting people with each other. Networking is a lost art. Networking is used in everyday life from making a business deal to securing employment. "The Networking Night Cap" is an opportunity for people to fine tune their "Oral Communication skills" and to meet other local Entrepreneurs. The Networking Night Cap is held at the Ava Lounge (126. S. Highland Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15206) from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sometimes we stay later......It just depends on when the "Networking" ends!

James Taylor of "JT Ribbs" in Penn Hills surprised the guest with some treats. James treated everyone to a sampling of his ribbs with Red Sauce and Mustard sauce. Everyone also tasted his fingerlicking wings and talapia mixed with salmon.











I look forward to YOUR participation in future "Networking Night Cap" events. You never know who will stop by!



Vernard

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Safelink Wireless

Safe Link Wireless program.

SAFELINK WIRELESS service is U.S. government supported program for Income eligible households provided by TracFone Wireless, Inc. In order to participate in the SAFELINK WIRELESS service, persons must meet certain eligibility requirements set by each State where the service is to be provided. These requirements are based on a person’s participation in a state or Federal support programs or by meeting the Income Poverty Guidelines as defined by the U.S. Government. SAFELINK WIRELESS service is limited to one person per household.
It's a great program where participants could obtain up to 40 minutes per month for free. They can purchase additional minutes at local stores to buy as needed.

Please spread the word to people who can utilize this service.



https://www.safelinkwireless.com/EnrollmentPublic/home.aspx

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

1st Annual Cherrie Dawkins Business Grant


I am excited about the progress of the 1st Annual Cherrie Dawkins Business Grant. I hope "Granny" would be proud of my effort. Listed below are the six finalist for the $250.00 grant:
LaKeisha Wolf owner of "EnjoyourSelf", a specialized products and services business that help facilitate health and wellness.
Brian Tolbert and Thomas Agnew owners of "Jenesis Magazine", a monthly publication that has worked diligently to become a mainstay in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
Che'Ana Frazier owner of "MuseAcd", ACD are the initials for Accessories, Clothing, and Designs (including: handcrafted jewelry, apparel, and accessories.
Rev. Shawn Walthour Pastor of "Refuge Temple Church", the mission is to provide a shelter for those that are hurting and hurting and in need of spiritual guidance to outreach to men, women and children to compel them to have a holy relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Sheerree Buchanan owner of "Shazoom Fitness"". Wendy Jack owner of "Wendy Jack flowers", WJ sells fresh cut flowers at local flea markets, small events and more.
Please support these entrepreneurs and the Minority Networking Exchange by attending the April 1, 2009 edition of the Networking Night Cap. The Networking Night Cap is held at the Ava Lounge 126 S. Highland Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. with an "Open Mic" session for entrepreneurs to "pitch" their business to the audience. A complimentary buffet will be provide by James Taylor "JT Ribbs".
The audience will be made to the winner of the 1st Annual Cherrie Dawkins Business Grant.
We will end the evening with Soul Line Dancing by Roland Ford.
$5.00 Cover charge for the entire evening of "Networking, Food, Recognition and Fun".
Vernard
412.303.0808