AEO Hosts Dallas Regional Council Convening to Strengthen Small Business Resilience and Economic Growth

Dallas, TX – The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) is set to host the Dallas Regional Council Convening on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. This pivotal gathering will unite small business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore innovative strategies for strengthening small business ecosystems and driving inclusive economic growth in the region.

The convening will feature a fireside chat between Natalie Madeira Cofield, President and CEO of AEO, and Roberto A. Coronado, Senior Vice President and Senior Economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, discussing the intersection of regional economic trends and small business development.

“As small businesses navigate today’s economic landscape, it is crucial that we provide them with the resources, networks, and policy insights needed to thrive,” said Natalie Madeira Cofield. “AEO’s Regional Councils are dedicated to fostering collaboration and advancing opportunities that create lasting economic impact.”

Event Highlights:

Fireside Chat: Strengthening Regional Small Business Ecosystems featuring Roberto A. Coronado of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

Panel Discussion: Disaster Recovery & Resilience for Small Businesses with speakers including State Representative C. Travis Johnson (D-21), Justen Noakes, Executive Director at BeforeDuringAfter, and other industry experts.

Supporting Veteran Small Business Panel, featuring leaders such as VR Small, Founder & CEO of Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center (VWEC), and Patrick Alcorn, Senior Director at the University of Texas Arlington College of Business.

Regional Economic Panel, spotlighting economic development strategies with speakers including Jacqueline Jackson of the San Antonio MBDA Business Center, Anthony Hinojosa of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Michael Rivera of Communities Unlimited, Inc.

The Dallas Regional Council Convening will provide key insights into economic challenges, financial inclusion, and policy-driven solutions to empower small business owners. The event will also highlight AEO’s commitment to supporting underserved entrepreneurs through its Regional Councils initiative.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Location: Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, 2200 N. Pearl St., Dallas, TX 75201

Security Requirements: All attendees must present a government-issued photo ID and undergo security screening upon arrival.

About AEO Regional Councils

The AEO Regional Councils initiative fosters collaboration among small business stakeholders, industry leaders, and policymakers to create opportunities for sustainable economic growth. Through in-person convenings and digital resources, Regional Councils provide a platform for knowledge-sharing, advocacy, and solution-driven dialogue to strengthen local economies.