Minority Networking Exchange

Survey Says..............

2010-05-25T22:33:00.000-05:00

Are you interesting in participating in the Minority Networking Exchange Kickball League?
Other games will be open for discuss also.

Roller Skating Rink Name

2010-05-13T07:45:00.000-05:00

I have almost completed my 2nd draft of my business plan. I want to open a Roller Skating Ring (Multiple Purpose Center) to the city of Pittsburgh.

I have most of my research complete. However, I haven't decided on a name I like.

Do you've any suggestions on what the name should be?

What's your biggest Fear?

2010-05-12T07:50:00.002-05:00

Do you've a dream of being a business owner? Would you like to leave the comfort of your employment to become Entrepreneur? What are you waiting on? What is stopping you from fulfilling your dream? (Feel free to respond to these questions on this blog)

Vernard

Building a Winning Team

2010-05-11T07:09:00.004-05:00

Successful entrepreneurs almost always have a winning team. Who is on your team? The Minority Networking Exchange will soon be announcing members of it's team. The members are experts in the following fields: Law, Business Development, Social Events, Microbusiness/Start Up, Graphic Design, Marketing/PR, Booking Keeping, Accounting and more......

Small Business Solutions

2010-05-11T06:57:00.003-05:00

http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/ is a great resource for entrepreneurs looking for affordable ways to design and host a website. They've variety of other products that they offer.

Who's on your winning team?

2010-05-10T07:34:00.002-05:00

Who's on your wining team?

Do you've a mentor? A lawyer? Accountant? Consultant? Great Employees?

Who's on your winning team?

Who is helping you become a successful Entrepreneur?

Free Brand New Laptop Computer

2010-05-05T09:12:00.002-05:00

Are you interested in starting a business?

The Microbusiness Institute (MBI) at Pittsburgh Community Service Inc. is looking for people who're interested in starting their own business.

These classes/workshop are FREE and open to those who meet the CSBG eligibility requirements.

FastTrac Entrepreneur Training Program - 11 Week Course
(Meets Once a Week)

To become a successful entrepreneur you need passion for an idea, a business plan based on research & analysis and the persistence to pursue your dream. After completing this cutting-edge entrepreneurial development program you will have developed a workable and potentially fundable business plan. You will develop your own business plan.

If you successfully complete the program you will receive a BRAND NEW laptop computer and more.

To find out more requirements of the program contact:

Jasmine A. Ward
Executive Assistant/Microbusiness Institute (MBI) Specialist
(The Community Action Agency for the City of Pittsburgh)
1835 Centre Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Office: 412-392-6466
Cell: 412-610-5978
Email: jasmine@pghcsi.org

Doing Business With The Commonwealth

2010-05-05T06:16:00.002-05:00

Are you thinking about doing business with the State of PA?

The Department of General Services through its Bureau of Procurement, buys a wide range of commodities and services on behalf of PA state agencies. They're many opportunities to Do Business With the State.

www.dgs.state.pa.us/procurement

www.emarketplace.state.pa.us

www.dos.state.pa.us/corps

www.pasupplierportal.state.pa.us

Business Boot Camp 101

2010-05-03T10:47:00.000-05:00

Business Boot Camp 101

One 4 hour Workshop Session (Saturday, May 8th 8:30 am - 12:30 pm)
Hill House Conference Room B.

You will learn about important topics vital to the start up of a new business. You
will also receive resources and tips that will help you navigate the road to become
a successful entrepreneur.

Continental Breakfast will be included.

Investment Amount: $50.00 per person

Contact me for more information:

Vernard
Admin@minnetexch.com
412.303.0808

Healthy Lifestyle Weight Loss Project

2010-05-03T10:27:00.002-05:00

I would like to congratulate Erica Glenn (Penn Hills, PA) for winning the Minority Networking Exchange (Healthy Lifestyle Weight Loss Project). Erica has loss 25 pounds since the end of Janaury. She loss a total of 11.5% of weight. She received a cash
prize of $500.00.

Erica will be helping assist me with the next Healthy Lifestyle Weight Loss Project beginning June 6, 2010.

Facebook Party v1.0

2009-08-10T06:45:00.002-05:00

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

Start Up Grants?

2009-08-07T07:38:00.002-05:00

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

Golf Outing

2009-08-06T06:27:00.002-05:00

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

Why do you need a logo?

2009-08-05T06:46:00.004-05:00

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.

Fave Five

2009-08-04T06:53:00.003-05:00

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

REINVENTED

2009-05-22T21:08:00.002-05:00

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

Networking Night Cap 3/18/09

2009-03-20T11:07:00.005-05:00

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

Safelink Wireless

2009-03-11T11:44:00.002-05:00

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

1st Annual Cherrie Dawkins Business Grant

2009-03-10T06:26:00.006-05:00

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

Business with the Government

2008-01-24T09:33:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, January 17 - I hosted "Business with the Government/How to become certified Networking event". The event took place at Sandidge Photography Studio. Ahmad does wonderful work!

Look for the pictures soon from the bowling networking event!

Over Due

2007-11-29T10:12:00.002-05:00

Wow.....I haven't posted in three months.........

I wanted to share some pictures from my Networking Event last night. Ahmad Sandidge was a great host. Everyone enjoyed the atmosphere and setting of his Studio. The pictures are great. Enjoy!

Vernard

More Horseback Riding Pictures

2007-07-23T08:35:00.000-05:00

Golf 101

2007-07-16T11:34:00.000-05:00

I recently hosted Golf 101 at Schenley Park with Local PGA Pro Sedrick Jackson. Sedrick did a great job teaching the group the fundamental techniques of the game.

I will be hosting The Minority Networking Exchange 1st Annual Golf Tournament on September 21, 2007 at Schenley Park.

Horseback Riding

2007-07-16T06:42:00.000-05:00

I try to create opportunities for Networking. Lots of black folks complain that about being "Bored" in Pittsburgh. People rather spend $30.00 at the bar and call that a good night. Recently, I decided to create more family oriented events. I read a study about influences on children: Children usual hear about 10 positive messages from their family on a daily basis. However, those same children typically hear 50 negative messages per day.

So I want to do my part - I want to create a positive culture where children and families have something to talk about for a long time.

I really enjoyed Horseback riding. 20 People participated in this event - including 6 children. As the pictures show - the kids had a great time. The pictures also show - a few adults - looking terrified.

Vernard

My Pride & Joy

2007-06-07T15:13:00.000-05:00

My pride and joy. I can't believe I waited until I was 34 to have my first child. What a Blessing! I can't describe how much my life has change.......

Ian - Daddy loves ya!

Tonight.................

2007-05-24T21:49:00.000-05:00

I hosted an Elevator Pitch............

I had a great time tonight............

Thanks to Terra Jones (Amani International Coffeehouse & Cafe)...............

Thanks to my special guest panel - who have years of experience helping Entrepreneurs..............

Diane Daniels - DID & AssociatesPublic Relations, business and leadership development...............

Walt Fortson - Fortson Publishing...........................

Roosevelt Nortfleet - Accounting Pro......................

And the great pitches....................

Non Profit - program helping men.................whoa............

Tax relief program for business owners.............................

PhD student in Mechanical Engineering who gave back by Mentoring..................

Carpet cleaning business.................

A servant of the Lord who travels to Erie to his Church to mission and lead a community........

Future recreational business.................

Child recreational business...................

A beautiful poet......................................

Wealth Manager.....................................

And more.................................................

You should've been there! I won't be hosting another Elevator Pitch for at least 6 months.........

Thanks to everyone for there support........................

The Minority Networking Exchange WILL make Pittsburgh a better place.....................

Vern

Murder Mystery

2007-05-24T06:52:00.000-05:00

On May 24th 2007 - I hosted my first Murder Mystery. It was a great experience. 40 people participated in this event. Everyone had a great time. I am anxiously preparing for my next murder mystery. Murder at the Juice Joint. This has been a great Networking and Marketing tool for my business. I expect 50 people to attend on June 24, 2007..........

Please check out the pictures from my 1st Murder Mystery "20 Year Reunion".

Vern

Why did I create the Minority Networking Exchange?

2007-05-23T10:01:00.000-05:00

Why did I create the Minority Networking Exchange?

Why did I create the Minority Networking Exchange, Inc. I created the MNE, Inc. because of my concern about the retention of minority owned businesses. I wanted to create an organization that would provide a support system to business owners. Pittsburgh needed a new organization that would address networking opportunities. The MNE, Inc. will provide multiple events per month. These events will create opportunities for collaboration, learning and revenue. My vision is for the members of the MNE, Inc. to become the vocal leaders of the black community. As business owners and leaders - We must provide mentorship opportunities for our youth. Teach them that they too can become Entrepreneur’s!

Many successful businesses should make it their priority to help MENTOR new and growing businesses.

My focus with MNE is bring people together are in business, thinking about going into business and people interested in the development of minority owned businesses.

I thank God for this opportunity because I really didn't want to do this! I wanted a business where I was going to make instant money........

But I have been shown that my calling is help and lead others and I'll be blessed in return........

Coming soon information about the Mt. Ararat Baptist Church "Entrepreneurs for Christ" Ministry.

Vernard

What's Your Elevator Pitch?

2007-05-23T09:54:00.000-05:00

Have you ever met someone and 10 minutes later you still don't know what the heck they do? Well I (The Minority Networking Exchange) decided to host an Elevator Pitch?

An Elevator Pitch is a brief overview of your company. It is a statement about who you are, what your business is, and why/how it special? If you were in an elevator with a potential investor and had only 30 seconds to make an impression, what would you say about your business?

This event is detailed to make the participants gave a brief detailed description of your business and to eliminate the fear of public speaking.........huh.......ah......oh......

On Thursday May 24, 07 MNE will present :

What’s Your Elevator Pitch?

You will have 60 seconds to pitch your business to our guest panel.
Afterwards, your receive POSITIVE feedback and opportunity to NETWORK.

6:00 PM to 8:30 PM —- Cost: $10.00 per person
Food and Beverage available for purchase

Contact: Vernard Alexander 412.303.0808
www.minnetexch.com
Admin@minnetexch.com

Event Location:
Location: Amani International Coffeehouse & Café
507 Foreland Street Pittsburgh, PA 15212