Meet the Neighborz: Where Community Meets Commerce
Girard Newkirk
Cofounder and CEO of Genesis Block, Speaker, Writer, Google For Startups Black Founders Exchange Alum
At Genesis Block, we believe the neighborhood economy is the foundation of a thriving community. It’s a dynamic network of small businesses, entrepreneurs, workers, and local commerce that drives economic growth and fosters connections. From independent retailers and service providers to contractors and neighborhood markets, these businesses create jobs, build wealth, and shape the character of our communities.
Entrepreneurs and small business owners are the backbone of this economy, responsible for 64% of new jobs in the United States and employing over 61.9 million people. By investing in local businesses, we strengthen our neighborhoods, empower innovation, and create opportunities that fuel long-term prosperity.
Genesis Block and its partners are committed to supporting this ecosystem by providing the resources, connections, and infrastructure needed to help small businesses succeed. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient “Neighborhood Economy”.
What is Meet the Neighborz?
Meet the Neighborz is a quarterly, vibrant gathering that brings together local entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders to connect, collaborate, and grow. This meetup is designed to foster meaningful connections, share valuable insights, and spark collaboration. Whether you’re launching a startup, growing your business, or looking to support the local economy, this is your opportunity to exchange ideas, gain feedback, and build lasting partnerships in a supportive environment. Come network, learn, and grow with like-minded professionals who are shaping the future of our community!
Where is the meeetup and how do I register to attend Meet the Neighborz?
In celebration of Women’s History Month, the first Meet the Neighborz event will be held at the ONLY woman-owned co-working space in Wilmington, Elevate Coworking.
Register to attend here!!!
How is Meet the Neighborz structured?
This event is designed with local entrepreneurs, small business owners and community visionaires in mind. Meet the Neighborz gives you the opportunity to meet other business owners, discuss the hot topics that can affect your business, and learn from your peers and other industry experts.
What is the Neighbor Connect Spotlight?
The Neighbor Connect Spotlight workshop is an exciting event that offers a firsthand look into the entrepreneurial journey. In this engaging session, a local entrepreneur steps into the spotlight to share their startup story — highlighting the wins, struggles, and pivotal moments that shaped their path to success. Presented in a TED-style format, this workshop emphasizes authentic storytelling, providing attendees with real-world lessons and powerful insights that inspire both entrepreneurs and sponsors.
For entrepreneurs, this workshop is an invaluable opportunity to learn from a peer’s experiences, gaining practical advice and inspiration for their own ventures. Collaborators and sponsors, on the other hand, can engage directly with local business leaders, demonstrating their support for innovation while connecting with a growing startup ecosystem.
By supporting the Neighbor Connect Spotlight, sponsors align themselves with the heart of entrepreneurship, helping to foster local economic growth and empowering the next generation of business leaders.
Click here to learn how you can support this impactful workshop and engage with local entrepreneurs while showcasing your brand’s commitment to innovation and community growth.
What is the Startup Sprint at Meet the Neighborz?
Calling all aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs! This high-energy workshop is designed to help you refine your ideas, gain valuable feedback, and take your venture to the next level.
How it works:
Whether you’re pitching or listening, this is your chance to network, validate ideas, and gain insights from industry leaders. Don’t miss this opportunity to refine your vision and get one step closer to success!
Want the ultimate bragging rights as a champion for local entrepreneurs? Here’s your chance to be a loud and proud advocate for the village economy! Support the movement here!
What is the Builder’s Blueprint at Meet the Neighborz?
This interactive workshop equips entrepreneurs with essential skills needed to grow and scale their businesses. Covering topics such as digital marketing, funding strategies, AI tools, and leadership, each session is designed to provide practical, hands-on learning that fosters business success.
Workshop themes are guided by community input, ensuring that each session aligns with the real needs of local entrepreneurs. Sponsors and community partners have the opportunity to support skill development, connect with emerging business leaders, and position their brand as a key contributor to entrepreneurial growth.
What is the Pressure Cooker at Meet the Neighborz?
Join us for an interactive workshop where real-world business challenges in the Cape Fear region take center stage. Entrepreneurs from the Meet the Neighbors community will present their challenges, and small breakout groups will collaborate to brainstorm innovative solutions. At the end of each session, the entrepreneur will share key takeaways and insights gained from the discussion.
This dynamic experience not only fosters entrepreneurial growth but also creates an information-sharing ecosystem where ideas, strategies, and expertise flow freely. Sponsors play a vital role in supporting these problem-solving sessions, gaining direct engagement with local business leaders while positioning their brand as a champion for innovation and community-driven success.
Join us for Meet the Neighborz and get connected to local entrepreneurs, small business owners, professionals and community visionaries.
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Greater Wilmington Business Journal: https://www.wilmingtonbiz.com/insights/girardnewkirk/237