Black Friday Business Showcase and Networking Forum

Some of us are using this season to find new ways to celebrate old traditions. So, in the spirit of innovation and collaboration, this Friday, we will CONNECT with new and old friends/associates, and highlight the forward-thinking businesses and entrepreneurs that are creating safe and innovative, COVID-conscious environments needed for people to grow and communities to thrive.

So...Are you going to CONNECT?!

Our networking event is a perfect opportunity to meet forward thinkers who are looking to make meaningful connections with progressive people in our community. Moving away from the overly-rehearsed elevator pitches and predictable "small talk," our team uses our CONNECT "features" to help all guests make unforgettable introductions and dazzling first impressions. We reduce the social pressure, physical barriers, and sheer awkwardness usually associated with networking, creating a vibrant environment conducive for building and exploring. So, have a bite, take a sip, and CONNECT with potential business partners, sponsors, mentors/mentees, new clients, and/or new friends/associates. Share this event with another forward thinkers, and please RSVP as soon as possible. Space is limited. Ticket cost covers admissions, CONNECT features, and CONNECT raffle tickets.

***SPECIAL NOTICE: Many guests had trouble purchasing tickets on Eventbrite for a previous event. Therefore, we STRONGLY suggest that you (1) RSVP ASAP to secure your spot, and (2) purchase your ticket at the door via Venmo or CashApp. Text Sharqi at 202-491-9952 if you have any questions.

Event Agenda:

6:00 p.m. - Doors Open/Greeting, Sign In, and Networking

6:30 p.m. - Welcome, Introductions, and 1st Feature: "Cannonball

7:00 p.m. - COVID-19 Support Panel: "Pivoting into New Opportunities" and Q & A

7:30 p.m. - Roll Call, Raffle, and 2nd Feature: Chaser"

8:00 p.m. - #CONNECT Business Spotlight and Networking

8:15 p.m. - Closing Remarks, Thanks You, and Giveaway

8:30 p.m. - Farewells/Doors Close

***PLEASE NOTE: There is space for 30 GUESTS. Face masks and temperature screening are required for entrance. Observing 6-foot social distancing standards, floor pods and seating arrangements will be used to support guests in maintaining a safe environment.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: Can I come alone? Answer: Absolutely! This is a great opportunity to meet new people.

Question: Can I bring a guest? Answer: Of course! We offer discounted tickets for guests who bring other guests. So, feel free to invite friends, colleagues, or other progressive people in your network.

Question: What is the suggested age range? Answer: 21 years and older.

Question: Are masks required? Answer: Yes. Need a masks? No worries. We also provide new masks upon request.

Question: What is the dress code for this event? Answer: There is no official dress code. Come as you are, business professional, business casual, or after-work chic looks are all welcome.

Question: Where is the Baby Duke's Kitchen? Answer: Baby Duke's Kitchen is a restaurant and event space in the Mount Vernon neighborhood of Westchester County, New York. The venue is a ten-minute walk from Mount Vernon East Metro North Train Station.

Question: Where will the event be held? Answer: The event will be held in a room that can accommodate 120 people, but under CDC regulations we will only host 30 guests for this event. Before and after each event, the management team the steams, sanitizes, disinfects the furniture and space.

Question: Is there parking? Answer: Yes. There is ample street parking outside of the restaurant. There is also a parking deck located at 1 Roosevelt Square N, Mt Vernon, NY 10550 ( across the street from Mount Vernon City Hall), which is a four-minute walk from the restaurant.

Question: Do I need a ticket to attend? Answer: Yes, you need a ticket to attend. You have to RSVP online, purchase your ticket at the door, and sign in with our host upon your arrival.

Question: Can I arrive late? Answer: Sure. Join us at the time that works best for you, and we can get you signed in at any point in the evening. Although timely arrival is suggested to maximize your CONNECT experience, 6:30 p.m. is still a good time to arrive.

Question: Will there be food and drinks? Answer: Yes, Baby Duke's Kitchen will provide a "Happy Hour Menu" for guests to enjoy food and drink specials. There are alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available.

Question: Should I bring business cards/flyers? Answer: Sure, if you would like our staff to post it on our touchless message board. However, we STRONGLY encourage touchless contact exchanges. So, feel free to connect with other guests via phone/text/email.

Question: Is there music? Answer: Yes! Great music will be played most of the event at the perfect volume for conversing or grooving (when/if you need to).

Question: What is the CONNECT Local Business Spotlight? Answer: Each month, we give entrepreneurs/business owners across all industries an opportunity to share their work and journey during a 5-minute presentation, (which starts at 7:00 p.m.). This platform highlights dynamic leadership in our region. The presenter(s) will be available after the presentation for questions and further discussion. If you are interested in presenting your business at our event, reach out to us via the contact information listed below.

For all other questions, email us at slt118@mail.harvard.edu, or text at 202-491-9952.