In partnership with Let’s Get Social Raleigh, The Wright Village proudly presents Village Vibes: Let’s Get Growing—a monthly series that blends entrepreneurship with the broader community. This isn’t just another networking event; it’s a dynamic space where relationships are built, ideas take root, and everyone walks away inspired.

Together, we’re redefining what it means to grow your business and your community. With a mix of engaging games, team-building challenges, vibrant conversations, and a touch of friendly competition, each event is designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and good vibes all around.

What to Expect:

• Fun-Focused Activities: Think trivia, creative challenges, and team games that bring entrepreneurs and guests together.

• Social Growth: A welcoming environment where business owners, professionals, and supporters can connect and thrive.

• Food, Music, and Laughter: Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with great food, local beverages, and tunes to keep the energy high.

When: Every 3rd Wednesday, February to November
Where: Wright Note Cafe located inside The Wright Village Hubert St., Raleigh
Who’s Invited: Everyone! Entrepreneurs, supporters, friends, and neighbors—all are welcome!

At Village Vibes, we’re blending the best of business, community, and fun to create a space where everyone feels at home. Let’s grow together—one laugh, connection, and game at a time!

When: Every 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 PM
Where: Wright Note Cafe, Hubert St, Raleigh
Cost: $5 per person

We’re back, and this time we’ve partnered with Bibe Media Group to bring you an even more dynamic Creative Connect Meetup! Join us for an evening of networking, creativity, and collaboration as we continue to build a thriving community of creatives in Raleigh.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, photographer, designer, influencer, model, musician, or just passionate about the arts, this event is the perfect space to exchange ideas, make connections, and find inspiration.

What to Expect:

✨ A relaxed environment to network with fellow creatives
🎨 Opportunities to share your work and ideas
💡 Collaborations that could spark your next big project
🍻 In February, enjoy beer sponsored by Proximity Brewing

Bring your business cards, portfolios, or just your enthusiasm! Let’s connect, create, and grow together.

Details:

• $5 Admission: Covers event costs and supports future meetups.

• Light Refreshments: Available to keep the creative energy flowing.

• Proximity Brewing Sponsorship: Don’t miss their craft beer on us in February!

Reserve Your Spot

Seating is limited, so register early to secure your place. We can’t wait to welcome you to an evening of connection, collaboration, and creativity.

Let’s shape the future of the creative community—together!

True networking starts when the event is finished. Most professionals now realize that networking is an essential part of business and that to achieve positive results, a consistent follow-up process is essential. The benefits of networking aren’t what you do at a meeting; they are what happens because you were at the meeting.

Join us for this workshop hosted by networking expert Rod Frankel to learn more about what’s required to successfully move beyond networking.

Lunch Networking Event | Who’s in Your Network?

Bring your lunch or grab lunch from Taste of Soul. Either way, we would love to have you attend our monthly Networking Lunch Event. Entrepreneurship is all about building relationships and growing your network. Bring business cards, you are sure to make some great connections.

Taste of Soul will be on site from 1130-1

Are you ready to use AI but aren’t quite sure how to get started?

We’ll talk about the cool tools, training your AIs, and managing prompts, plus we’ll examine the costs vs. benefits. We’ll also talk about some of the security risks and when AI can give your company a competitive advantage.

This is a 1.5-hour class on working with this promising new technology and insights into how AI can make your small business better.

Hosted by: Jen McFarland

Jen founded Marit Digital in 2022 after 20+ years in higher ed and a year-long stint in corporate America. She is an avid reader, loves games, and is a busy mom to two kids.

Marit Digital is a dedicated B Corp, primarily working with small businesses and teams. They step in to support the needs of companies lacking dedicated technical expertise, or those needing project-based strategy and support. Their goal is to be a resource provider for the long-term, building partnership and trust through excellent experiences.

Every contact that you have with other people becomes an opportunity to develop your network and to form stronger business relationships. This is particularly true in the setting of large events, seminars, and social gatherings. In this workshop with networking expert Rod Frankel, he will show you the tools to become a successful networker with his Before, During, and After framework.

As President of Frankel Staffing Partners, Rod was proud to lead a highly respected, award-winning, local staffing firm that specialized in identifying quality employment matches between premier employers and top-tier applicants. In addition to several awards for Growth & Profitability from the Raleigh Chamber, Frankel Staffing Partners is a multiple-year winner of both the Fast 50 Award and the Best Places to Work Award.

What is ChatGPT? An AI Introduction Workshop with Marit Digital

At this point we’ve all heard about “ChatGPT” and “AI” but for some of us, we’re not really sure what they do or how they work. Aside from being excited/scared of it, should we be using it? And how? When does AI help you?

This is a 1-hour overview of this exciting tech. We’ll review the different terminology, talk about the types of AI models, discuss the good and not-so-good, and get insights into how AI can make your small business better.

Hosted by: Jen McFarland

Jen founded Marit Digital in 2022 after 20+ years in higher Ed and a year-long stint in corporate America. She is an avid reader, loves games, and is a busy mom to two kids.

Marit Digital is a dedicated B Corp, primarily working with small businesses and teams. They step in to support the needs of companies lacking dedicated technical expertise, or those needing project-based strategy and support. Their goal is to be a resource provider for the long-term, building partnership and trust through excellent experiences.

Join us for a hands-on workshop where we'll help you map out your strategic vision and goals as an entrepreneur on your own vision board.

Hey fellow entrepreneurs! The transition of the new year is a powerful time to reflect on the year past and set intentions for the season to come. Join us for a hands-on Vision Board Workshop where you can clarify your vision, set meaningful targets, and create a plan to achieve your goals. This in-person event will be an amazing opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, get inspired, and take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level. Let's map out your path to success together! See you there!

This is one of our Villagers events and not a Wright Village event. For more information please click the link below to contact the organizer.

Welcome to 100 Days to Abundance!

Join us at The Wright Village for an immersive, in-person event exploring the path to abundance in just 100 days. Dive deep into proven strategies, powerful mindset shifts, and practical tips to attract abundance across all aspects of your life. This is your chance to connect with like-minded individuals and embark on a transformative journey towards a more abundant future. Don't miss out on this opportunity to accelerate your progress and double your business in 100 days or less!

Attend the first three 100 Days to Abundance sessions. If you're not satisfied that the program is worth your time or money, you'll receive a full refund - no questions asked.

As a small business owner or sales professional eager to grow your enterprise, the 100 Days to Abundance program can provide the focus, accountability, and commitment you need. Over 800 of your peers have already participated in and benefited from this transformative program.

“When Times are Good, Anyone Can Win - When Times are Tough, the Smartest and Most Proactive Win.”

100 Days to Abundance is a 12 session program scheduled over 100 days during which you will learn how to:

• Create an unlimited supply of prospects

• Create powerful referral partners and referral systems

• Turn prospects into clients

• Create strategic partners to help grow your business

• Increase your business from existing clients

• Produce more results than you thought possible

The "100 Days to Abundance" program provides access to Bill Davis' proven business concepts, strategies, and approaches.

The 12-session "100 Days to Abundance" program is designed to help you:

• Produce more results than you thought possible

• Create an unlimited supply of prospects for your business

• Develop powerful referral partners and systems

• Convert your current prospects into clients

• Establish strategic partnerships to grow your business

• Increase business from your existing clients

Each 90 minute session is focused on one key concept, strategy or tactic for growing your business.

Sessions are weekly so you can implement what you learn immediately after each session so you grow your business while you are in the 100 Days to Abundance program.

Program Begins January 7th, 2025 at 10:30 am.

Proudly Sponsored by: The Wright Village & Black Wall Street Forward.

It's that time of year 🎄!! Santa is traveling all the way from the North and is planning to check in early for the holidays and their first stop is at The Wright Village !!!

He has asked The Wright Village to team up with him to make this holiday season super exciting for the kiddos that matter to us the most!!!

We are transforming one of our spaces into a Christmas Wonderland to bring it all to life!!! The kids will enjoy Breakfast, Pics, and games/craft

$ 8 Kids ticket includes Breakfast, Pic, and games/crafts

$ 7 Adult ticket includes Breakfast

$10 Adult ticket includes Breakfast & Pic

Choose the time you would like to visit with Santa, have breakfast, and enjoy games and crafts with the other kiddies. Photos will be taken by a professional photographer and digital photos will be emailed to you. Photo time is limited to 3-5 minutes per child or Adult. Group photos are limited to 5-7 minutes.

Once your time slot is up please prepare to leave, so we can allow time for the next group.

Please email or text if you have any questions or would like to volunteer :

Info@thewrightvillage.com

919-822-19347

* YOU CHOOSE the time

* 3-5 MINUTES per child or 5-7 minutes group time with Santa for Photos

* 1 TICKET purchase allows 1 child

* Digital Photo emailed or use your own camera

* TICKETS purchased online through Eventbrite.com or at Thewrightvillage.com/events

*FREE Parking lot and street parking

Join us for an evening of socializing to tap into new connections within our Village and other local businesses. Invite someone you would like to do business with.

• Mingle with other business owners

• Enjoy Refreshments

• Meet new contacts

• Build business relationships in the community

If you would love to sponsor our next Business After-Hours mixer, please request information at info@thewrightvillage.com

Bankability Boost: Path to Capital – Presented by Truist

Are you an entrepreneur ready to take the next step in accessing capital? Join us for Bankability Boost: Path to Capital, presented by Truist—a transformative event designed to help you prepare for funding and investment.

About the Event:

Hosted at The Wright Village, a coworking community dedicated to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs, this event brings together financial experts and local entrepreneurs to help you get bank-ready. From understanding your financials to planning for long-term growth, this evening is designed to equip you with the skills, insights, and resources needed to strengthen your financial foundation.

What You’ll Gain:

• Expert Guidance: Learn from industry professionals, including tax consultants, bookkeepers, accountants, credit specialists, and more. Our panel of experts will provide tips and answer questions to help you achieve financial readiness for funding.

• Service Raffles: Win exclusive service packages purchased from experts in bookkeeping, tax preparation, accounting, and financial planning. Each raffle winner will receive a package or consultation that can directly help them progress toward funding readiness.

• Panel Discussion: Gain valuable insights from our expert panel, where specialists will share their best practices, answer questions, and discuss what it takes to become a bankable business.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other entrepreneurs, gain access to local experts, and start building a network that supports your financial success.

• Food & Drinks: Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres by Taste of Soul and beverages provided by Proximity Brewing Company to make the evening both delicious and enjoyable.

Who Should Attend:

This event is perfect for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and founders who want to build a stronger financial foundation and learn how to access capital successfully.

Event Details:

• Date: Wednesday, November 20th

• Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

• Location: The Wright Village, Hubert St, Raleigh, NC

• Cost: Free (Registration Required)

Get ready to boost your bankability! Reserve your spot now to take a meaningful step towards financing for your business.

Lunch Networking Event | Who’s in Your Network?

Bring your lunch or grab lunch from Taste of Soul. Either way, we would love to have you attend our monthly Networking Lunch Event. Entrepreneurship is all about building relationships and growing your network. Bring business cards, you are sure to make some great connections.

Taste of Soul will be on site from 1130-1

Supporting Raleigh entrepreneurs & small business owners with a special food distribution event. Join us to connect & fuel your journey!

🛠 Fueling Entrepreneurs, Feeding Dreams 🛠

Entrepreneurs and small business owners, we’re here to support YOU! Join us for a special Food Distribution Event at The Wright Village on October 31st. 💼✨

In partnership with Marketing with a Twist and Stop Hunger One Community at A Time, we’re offering resources to help lighten the load. Come out, connect with your community, and grab what you need to keep moving forward!

📅 Date: October 31st
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM
📍 Location: The Wright Village, Hubert St. Raleigh

💥 This event is open to all small business owners and entrepreneurs—just show up and receive the support you deserve!

⚡️ Know a fellow entrepreneur who could use this? Tag them in the comments or share this post with them! 🙌

🔗 We’re also looking for volunteers!

How to Find, Apply, and Receive Funds for Your Business

In this workshop, participants will learn the essential steps to successfully navigate the world of business grants. We will cover how to identify the right grants for your business, and research available opportunities. You’ll gain practical insights into business grants and learn some common pitfalls. By the end, attendees will leave with the tools and confidence to secure valuable funding resources to support their business growth.

• Workshops begin promptly at 11:30

• Bring paper and pens to take notes

Villager(member) - $10 with lunch, FREE workshop only

Catered by: Taste Of Soul

• Chicken Salad Sandwich

• Meditteranean Veggie & Hummus wrap

• Fruit Salad, Chips, and a drink are included with all meals

For questions please call 919-822-1937, email info@thewrightvillage.com or visit www.thewrightvillage.com/events

About our Facilitator Karriem Kanston:

Karriem K. Kanston, is a business coach, multi-unit franchise owner, and consultant who

focuses on helping small business owners get unstuck from where they are to develop a GPS roadmap for growth.

He has a vast array of experiences and worked for companies in higher education, commercial banking, and a Fortune 500 retail company where he trained senior managers in leadership & management development. He is currently the owner of Kanston Development in which he advises businesses in the area of leadership and economic development to assist them with strategic business development. Kanston Development is a certified MBE/DBE and veteran-owned business. He is a graduate of Johnson & Wales University where he received degrees in Entrepreneurship, Business Management, and Business Education.

He is a certified coach, speaker, and trainer with the John Maxwell Team and a veteran of the army. He is excited to talk with you today and looks forward to sharing information to impact your life.

www.kanston.com

kkanston@kanston.com

Business Finance Workshops

Join us for sessions -1 and 2

Session - 1

September 26th,11:00 am- 12:30 pm

Small Business Capital (Reasons and Sources for Funding):

This session will outline the primary sources of small business capital, including some of the advantages and disadvantages of each. A focus will be on debt financing, with an overview of small business loan underwriting fundamentals to help the entrepreneur understand better what lenders look for in a loan package. The presenter will also provide a brief overview of SBA loan products and how the SBA works with banks and other lenders.

Session - 2

September 26th, 1:00 pm-2:30 pm

Financial Statements and Analysis for Small Businesses:

This session will provide an overview of the main financial statements, stressing the importance of accurate bookkeeping and discussing some information that can be learned from analyzing these statements. The presenter will introduce participants to key ratios and other measures used in analysis and as key performance indicators as they manage their small businesses. Some of these measures are also used by bankers and other lenders when making approval decisions on small business loans and lines of credit.

• Workshops begin promptly at 11:30

• 12:30 Lunch

• Bring paper and pens to take notes

Villager(member) - $10 with lunch, FREE workshop only

Catered by: Taste Of Soul

• Jerk Chicken Sandwich

• Jerk Portobello Mushroom Sandwich

• Caribean Slaw, Chips, and a drink are included with all meals

For questions please call 919-822-1937, email info@thewrightvillage.com or visit www.thewrightvillage.com/events

About our Facilitator Gene Holland:

Gene brings financial analysis and business credit underwriting expertise to the SBTDC Raleigh Center, drawing on his experience with BB&T (now Truist) as a Commercial Banker and a Business Credit Instructor. Gene exited the financial services industry in 2007 as Co-Founder of CORK & TEE, LLC, a boutique, luxury travel company specializing in customized experiences featuring golf, wine, culinary, and cultural elements. In this role, Gene wore every hat imaginable, leading up to his departure in 2019, he focused largely on financial, HR, and operational areas as CORK & TEE grew to a profitable, $ 4+ million company. Along the way, Gene gained a considerable understanding of international payments and foreign exchange rate hedging methods.

Gene grew up in Chapel Hill and attended UNC-CH, where he played Varsity Golf and earned a BA in Economics. Upon graduation, Gene spent nearly eleven years as a PGA Golf Professional, then earned his MBA from UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School in 2002. Along the way, Gene has refined his mentoring skills coaching middle school basketball and youth, showcase, high school, and American Legion baseball.

How to Find, Apply, and Receive Funds for Your Business

In this workshop, participants will learn the essential steps to successfully navigate the world of business grants. We will cover how to identify the right grants for your business, and research available opportunities. You’ll gain practical insights into business grants and learn some common pitfalls. By the end, attendees will leave with the tools and confidence to secure valuable funding resources to support their business growth.

• Workshops begin promptly at 11:30

• Bring paper and pens to take notes

Villager(member) - $10 with lunch, FREE workshop only

Catered by: Taste Of Soul

• Chicken Salad Sandwich

• Mediterranean Veggie & Hummus wrap

• Fruit Salad, Chips, and a drink are included with all meals

For questions please call 919-822-1937, email info@thewrightvillage.com or visit www.thewrightvillage.com/events

About our Facilitator Karriem Kanston:

Karriem K. Kanston, is a business coach, multi-unit franchise owner, and consultant who

focuses on helping small business owners get unstuck from where they are to develop a GPS roadmap for growth.

He has a vast array of experiences and worked for companies in higher education, commercial banking, and a Fortune 500 retail company where he trained senior managers in leadership & management development. He is currently the owner of Kanston Development in which he advises businesses in the area of leadership and economic development to assist them with strategic business development. Kanston Development is a certified MBE/DBE and veteran-owned business. He is a graduate of Johnson & Wales University where he received degrees in Entrepreneurship, Business Management, and Business Education.

He is a certified coach, speaker, and trainer with the John Maxwell Team and a veteran of the army. He is excited to talk with you today and looks forward to sharing information to impact your life.

www.kanston.com

kkanston@kanston.com

Join us for an evening of socializing to tap into new connections within our Village and other local businesses. Invite someone you would like to do business with.

• Mingle with other business owners

• Enjoy Refreshments

• Meet new contacts

• Build business relationships in the community

If you would love to sponsor our next Business After-Hours mixer, please request information at info@thewrightvillage.com

Lunch Networking Event | Who’s in Your Network?

Bring your lunch or grab lunch from Taste of Soul. Either way, we would love to have you attend our monthly Networking Lunch Event. Entrepreneurship is all about building relationships and growing your network. Bring business cards, you are sure to make some great connections.

Taste of Soul will be on site from 1130-1

Access To Capital Workshop - Raleigh

Welcome to Access To Capital Event!

Come join us at The Wright Village at Recity

Unlock the secrets to mastering your business finances with our IN-PERSON Access to Capital Workshop! This comprehensive workshop is designed to help business owners understand and create their business financials, enabling them to open and grow their businesses with confidence.

What You Will Learn:

- Develop 3-Year Financial Projections: Gain the skills to create accurate and realistic financial forecasts that will guide your business growth.
- Interpret Financials: Learn how to read and understand your financial statements, allowing you to make informed business decisions.
- Fiscal Management Tools: Discover the tools and knowledge you need to keep your business’s financial house in order.
- Engage with Financial Professionals: Understand how to effectively work with your bookkeeper, CPA, and tax professional to ensure your business’s financial health.

Key Financial Documents and Terminology Covered:

- Capital
- Startup Funding
- Financial Projections
- Balance Sheet
- Profit & Loss Statement
- Cash Flow
- Gross vs Net Revenue
- Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)
- Operating Expenses

Meet Your Facilitator:

Magaly Rivera, Business Solutions Officer | Carolina Small Business Development Fund (CSBDF)

Magaly brings over 25 years of expertise in providing access to capital, strategic planning, business development, community initiatives, program concept development, grant writing, and industry analysis. Her extensive experience will provide you with the insights and tools necessary to grow your business and develop new products and services.

Join us for this invaluable workshop and take the next step towards securing your business’s financial future!

Access To Capital Workshop - Durham

Welcome to Access To Capital Event!

Come join us at The Wright Village at Recity

Unlock the secrets to mastering your business finances with our IN-PERSON Access to Capital Workshop! This comprehensive workshop is designed to help business owners understand and create their business financials, enabling them to open and grow their businesses with confidence.

What You Will Learn:

- Develop 3-Year Financial Projections: Gain the skills to create accurate and realistic financial forecasts that will guide your business growth.
- Interpret Financials: Learn how to read and understand your financial statements, allowing you to make informed business decisions.
- Fiscal Management Tools: Discover the tools and knowledge you need to keep your business’s financial house in order.
- Engage with Financial Professionals: Understand how to effectively work with your bookkeeper, CPA, and tax professional to ensure your business’s financial health.

Key Financial Documents and Terminology Covered:

- Capital
- Startup Funding
- Financial Projections
- Balance Sheet
- Profit & Loss Statement
- Cash Flow
- Gross vs Net Revenue
- Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)
- Operating Expenses

Meet Your Facilitator:

Magaly Rivera, Business Solutions Officer | Carolina Small Business Development Fund (CSBDF)

Magaly brings over 25 years of expertise in providing access to capital, strategic planning, business development, community initiatives, program concept development, grant writing, and industry analysis. Her extensive experience will provide you with the insights and tools necessary to grow your business and develop new products and services.

Join us for this invaluable workshop and take the next step towards securing your business’s financial future!

Embark on a transformative journey with #ByTiffanySmith's "Social & Canva Secrets"! This comprehensive 3-hour workshop combines the essentials of social media success with the creative power of Canva to elevate your online presence and brand.

Social Media For Success
Discover the basics of social media and unlock the secrets to finding your target audience, decoding analytics, and pivoting strategies effectively. Learn how to transform your camera roll into compelling content that propels your online presence to new heights. Ideal for small business owners, new influencers, and anyone eager to harness the power of social media.

Canva Unlocked
Dive deep into Canva, the online tool that bridges the gap between graphic design and small consumers. Master Canva's tools and templates to heighten your online credibility and brand presence. With Tiffany's expert insights, you'll navigate creative strategies and enhance your content, ensuring you master Canva's full potential.

About Tiffany Smith
Tiffany Smith, affectionately known as the "Content Queen," is the Social Media Manager of the most prominent Black media company in the U.S., handling over a million weekly impressions across all social platforms. With over a decade of creative content experience, Tiffany is renowned for creating high-quality content that resonates with audiences. Her achievements include participating in Snapchat's 523 Black Creator Accelerator Program and amassing over 60K followers across social media apps.

What to Bring

• Ring lights (if you have them)

• 1-2 products for photo practice

Extras

• Refreshments included!

Join Tiffany for this intimate and interactive workshop, and take your social media and design skills to the next level!

Join us for an evening of socializing to tap into new connections within our Village and other local businesses. Invite someone you would like to do business with.

• Mingle with other business owners

• Enjoy Refreshments

• Meet new contacts

• Build business relationships in the community

If you would love to sponsor our next Business After-Hours mixer, please request information at info@thewrightvillage.com

Join us for an evening of socializing to tap into new connections within our Village and other local businesses. Invite someone you would like to do business with.

• Mingle with other business owners

• Enjoy Refreshments

• Meet new contacts

• Build business relationships in the community

If you would love to sponsor our next Business After-Hours mixer, please request information at info@thewrightvillage.com

Lunch Networking Event | Who’s in Your Network?

Bring your lunch or grab lunch from Taste of Soul. Either way, we would love to have you attend our monthly Networking Lunch Event. Entrepreneurship is all about building relationships and growing your network. Bring business cards, you are sure to make some great connections.

Taste of Soul will be on site from 1130-1

Join us for an evening of socializing to tap into new connections within our Village and other local businesses. Invite someone you would like to do business with.

• Mingle with other business owners

• Enjoy Refreshments

• Meet new contacts

• Build business relationships in the community

If you would love to sponsor our next Business After-Hours mixer, please request information at info@thewrightvillage.com

Join us for an evening of socializing to tap into new connections within our Village and other local businesses. Invite someone you would like to do business with.

• Mingle with other business owners

• Enjoy Refreshments

• Meet new contacts

• Build business relationships in the community

If you would love to sponsor our next Business After-Hours mixer, please request information at info@thewrightvillage.com