1.Kudos for John Harmon: John Harmon, President and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and NBCC Board Member, has been elected to the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce.  Congratulations John!  Your hard work and dedication continues to gather attention.

2.Export – Import Bank to Participate: Wanda F. Felton, Vice Chair and First Vice President of the EXIM Bank, will be speaking at the First Annual PanAfrican Entrepreneurs Conference during November 15 – 18, 2012 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston, TX.  The EXIM Bank is initiating a special focus on African business transactions.  They are a leader in financial guarantees for American businesses.  Don’t miss this!

3.Invitation from South Bend: The City of South Bend, Indiana, along with the Common Council and the Diversity Utilization Board are pleased to present the inaugural outreach event to the minority and women-owned business community.  There is no fee and parking is free.  For more information about this October 18 event click here.

4.Verizon Introduces ‘Virtual Communications Express’: Small and medium-sized businesses increasingly want to tap the same kinds of advanced collaboration tools and capabilities as large enterprises, but often are restrained by limited resources and a lack of in-house IT expertise.  To address this issue, Verizon Enterprise Solutions is delivering Virtual Communications Express, a new, multi-featured communications system designed for the small and medium-sized business market. More

5. PanAfrican Entrepreneurs Conference Details: www.panafricanec.org List of Speakers

What is the PanAfrican Entrepreneurs Conference?

PAEC is the place to find partners for a joint venture. This is the place to find ways to build capacity. This conference is the place to bring contracts and find businesses to perform it. At this conference you will learn how to do business internationally and where to find the opportunities.

Who will be attending?

Finance companies, Ministers from various countries, other government officials with specific projects, entrepreneurs, companies looking for joint ventures, companies looking for investments.  We expect representation from Trinidad and Tobago, Zambia, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Suriname, Cameroon, France, Equatorial Guinea, & Fiji Islands and more.

How many people attend the conference?

2012 is the first year of the PAEC, we are expecting 300 entrepreneurs.

What are the elements of the conference?

The conference features intensive panels with experienced global entrepreneurs, and a great deal of networking and matchmaking.

What should I bring?

Bring plenty of business cards and have your Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) on your mobile device so that you may easily email it to prospective partners.

Are exhibit tables available?

Yes. When you register you can purchase an exhibit table. You will be provided with a 6ft table and chair.    You will also be given 2 complimentary exhibit passes for personnel to staff your table. These passes are not eligible for meals. The exhibits will take place 8:30am – 5pm on Friday November 16 and Saturday November 17.

Where is the event held?

The PanAfrican Entrepreneurs Conference is being held at the Four Seasons Hotel, Houston, Texas. 1300 Lamar Street, Houston, Texas 77010-3017

Does my registration fee include hotel accommodations?

No. The registration fee includes all panels and meals listed on the agenda.  Hotel reservations may be made by calling the Four Seasons directly, 800-734-4114 and mention PanAfrican Entrepreneurs Conference to receive the rate of $155 per night, plus tax for superior rooms or $175 for deluxe rooms.  Reservations must be made by October 24. However, the hotel is likely to sell out, it is best to make your reservation today by calling 800-734-4114 or 713-652-6220.

How far is the hotel from the airport?

There are two airports to fly into, William P. Hobby is about 20 minutes away and George Bush International is about 40 minutes away.

How much is a cab ride from the airport to the hotel?

The average cost of a cab ride from the airport to the hotel is $26.00 from Hobby Airport.  There is a $56 flat rate from Bush International. (Accurate as of 9/27/12)

Can registered participants attend all conference sessions and events?

Registered participants as designated by registrant badges will have open access to everything, as listed on the agenda. You must wear your badge at all times.

Are meals included in the registration package?

Yes.  Thursday evening we will serve heavy appetizers. Friday and Saturday we will serve a full breakfast and lunch.

What is the appropriate attire for the event?

Business attire is the appropriate dress for Conference events.  The attire for the opening reception is business casual.