Featured speakers
Inspiring ideas to make a difference
We heard inspirational stories and urgent calls for change from several innovation economy leaders. Many of us were moved by these authentic conversations. Following the event, a veteran venture capitalist messaged the event organizers: “All of these participants are only demonstrating to me that I still have so far to go. But, at a youthful 55, I still have a shot.”
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Highlights from Step Forward
Opening Remarks with Yvette Butler
In her opening remarks, former President, SVB Private Banking & Wealth Management, Yvette Butler introduced the conference, and explained why Silicon Valley Bank is focused on making sure that innovation sector is accessible to everyone.
Keynote with Claude Grunitzky
We were thrilled to have Claude Grunitzky, CEO and Managing Partner at Equity Alliance, join us as the conference's keynote speaker. Claude discussed the lessons he learned as an immigrant entrepreneur and the importance of democratizing access to capital.
Playing To Win Or Playing Not To Lose?
This session focused on a research paper published by Stanford's Marlene Orozco that looked at Black and Latinx risk-taking in the entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem.
Access to Innovation Overview
During this session Courtney Karnes gave a quick overview of SVB's Access to Innovation program. Through this initiative we are helping build a more diverse, equitable and accessible innovation economy.
It's Not Just A Pipeline Problem
This speakers on this panel discussed how they have navigated an asset management industry in which women and people of color have historically been overlooked and underestimated.
A Story of Hope and a Call to Action Broken Chains Movie Discussion
This session featured an in-depth conversation about Broken Chains, a new documentary the racial wealth gap.
Closing Remarks with Courtney Karnes
The conference's closing remarks were delivered by Courtney Karnes, who leads SVB's Access to Innovation program. This initiative is helping builds a more diverse, equitable and accessible innovation economy for all.
McBride Sisters Fireside Chat & Interactive Q&A
This session featured a fireside chat and interactive Q&A with Robin McBride, President and Co-Founder at McBride Sisters Collection and Angela Morris Lovelace, Chief DE&I Officer at Silicon Valley Bank.
