Bank of America Renews as Presenting Sponsor for Pitch Competition
West Des Moines, IA – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced that Bank of America has renewed its commitment as the exclusive presenting sponsor of the Pitch Competition at the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit. Bank of America's sponsorship will extend for the next three years, through the 2027 event.
The Pitch Competition is a signature component of the Summit, providing a platform for ethnic and racial minority entrepreneurs to pitch their business to a panel of judges. The continued support of Bank of America ensures that this vital resource for minority entrepreneurs will continue to grow and thrive, offering participants the opportunity to secure funding, mentorship, and visibility.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Bank of America,” said Katherine Harrington, President & CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce. “Their long-term commitment highlights their dedication to supporting underrepresented communities and advancing the economic opportunities of minority business owners. Together, we are paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive business environment in Iowa and beyond.”
Bank of America’s sponsorship has been instrumental in expanding the reach and impact of the Pitch Competition, which has helped elevate numerous minority-owned businesses over the years. The next Athene Black & Brown Business Summit will take place on April 16-17, 2025, featuring a range of activities designed to support minority business owners, including workshops, networking sessions, and keynote addresses from industry leaders.
“We believe in the power of diverse businesses to drive innovation and economic growth,” said Annie Brandt, Market Executive, Bank of America Iowa. “Renewing our support for this competition enables us to contribute to a program that empowers minority entrepreneurs and strengthens communities. We are excited to continue working with the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce to make the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit a resounding success in the years to come.”
Applications for the 2025 Pitch Competition will open December 10, 2024, offering another group of entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their businesses and compete for cash prizes and invaluable business support.
For more information on the Pitch Competition or the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, please visit bbbsummit.com.
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About the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
The Athene Black & Brown Business Summit is an annual event dedicated to providing a platform for Black and Brown professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders to share insights, inspire change, and foster connections. The Summit serves as a catalyst for growth, empowerment, and collaboration within the community.
About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is a dynamic organization dedicated to championing all things West Des Moines. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, providing personalized resources, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 800 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines at wdmchamber.org.
Bank of America
Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 69 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,700 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 58 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC).
For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts.
