Workshop info
The “Taking Care of Business” Workshops series is perfectly crafted for students, aspiring founders, early-stage creators, business owners/operators, capacity builders – anyone stepping into or deeper into their founder identity.
- Event Address: Virtual (Zoom) or 700 E Oakwood Blvd., Chicago, IL 60653
- Contact: bigcenter@neiu.edu
- Register: Any Session
Learngenix: Pitch Prep & Practice (3-part series) | Register
Dynamic, 3-part program + 1:1 consulting designed to help business owners craft, refine, and confidently deliver powerful pitches. Presented by Jay Fulgencio, founder of Learngenix.
February 24 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Session 1: Crafting a Compelling Business Story
- Build the foundation of a clear, emotionally engaging business narrative.
- Storytelling structure for pitches (Problem → Solution → Market → Financials → Ask)
- Articulating value proposition and market opportunity
- Connecting logic and emotion to engage audiences
- Activities: Story Spine Builder, One-minute story pitch practice, Story worksheet provided
March 3 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Session 2: Slide Design & Data Storytelling
- Design a visually engaging, data-informed pitch deck aligned with investor expectations.
- 10-12 essential slides every pitch deck needs
- Simplifying visuals and data presentation
- Aligning storytelling with visual design
- Activities: Deck drafting sprint, Peer review, Slide design checklist, Startup pitch deck examples
March 10 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Session 3: Pitch Delivery & Practice
- Build confidence and refine delivery skills through live practice and expert feedback.
- Verbal and nonverbal communication for persuasive delivery
- Handling Q&A sessions professionally
- Overcoming nerves and presenting with confidence
- Activities: Elevator pitch warm-up, One practice round, Delivery feedback form, Certificate of completion
The N’Trepreneur Mindset | Register
April 14 | 5-8 p.m.
- Presented by Nekia Nichelle, founder of The N Brand & Clint Johnson, COO.
- This experience blends Nekia’s lived expertise in media, personal reinvention, and confidence with Clint’s structured approach to clarity, systems, and emotional intelligence. Together, they guide participants through a mindset transformation designed to shift how they think, act, and move as founders.
- In person at 700 E Oakwood Blvd, Chicago, IL 60653
Systems Over Stress: Automating Your Business Finances | Register
April 21 | 12-2 p.m.
- Presented by: Lanesha Mohip, founder of Polished CFO Solutions
- Streamline bookkeeping, invoicing, and expense tracking with digital tools.
- Learn how to use automation to reduce errors, save time, and stay organized for funding and tax compliance.
- Working directly in QuickBooks or other similar software
- In person at 700 E Oakwood Blvd, Chicago, IL 60653