The December 20 Transform Westside Summit featured an inspiring and thought-provoking program centered on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Atlanta’s Westside. Hosted by John Ahmann, President and CEO of Westside Future Fund , the event highlighted the transformative work of the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) under the leadership of Jay Bailey, its President and CEO. The event began with a warm welcome from Ahmann and Ebony Ford, an English Avenue resident, followed by a heartfelt devotion delivered by Louis Deas, Founder of Try Deas & Other Treats.

Ahmann led the conversation with Bailey, which highlighted the vital role of entrepreneurship in addressing systemic inequalities in Atlanta, a city grappling with stark income disparities and barriers to economic mobility. The two spoke about the power of community collaboration, intentional investment and the indomitable spirit of Atlanta’s dreamers and doers. Bailey emphasized RICE’s mission to create pathways to success for Black entrepreneurs by providing resources, mentorship and opportunities for transformative growth. Key highlights included:

• The Vision of RICE: Positioned as a “beacon of opportunity,” RICE offers Black entrepreneurs a safe space to fail, learn and thrive, addressing challenges like loneliness, anxiety and systemic inequities.
• Historical Context: Bailey honored the legacy of Herman Russell, whose pioneering efforts in business and real estate paved the way for Black excellence in Atlanta. Russell’s intentionality in fostering opportunities for future generations, including building his headquarters on a hill overlooking Morehouse, Clark and Spelman so Black students could see the physical manifestation of what was possible for people who look like them, was a recurring theme.
• Impact of RICE: Supporting over 641 full-time entrepreneurs and touching 10,000 individuals annually, RICE has created and sustained more than 4,200 jobs in the City of Atlanta with those entrepreneurs generating $147 million in revenue every year. This equates to $527 million in new economic impact—surpassing the economic boost of the World Cup annually.

The discussion also delved into the importance of inclusive development in Atlanta, particularly on the Westside. Ahmann and Bailey reflected on:

• The need to preserve affordability for both housing and businesses to sustain Atlanta’s character and ensure prosperity for all.
• The power of intentionality in supporting local entrepreneurs through conscious spending and mentorship.
• The broader vision of Atlanta as a “beloved community” inspired by Dr. King’s dream—a city where opportunity transcends race and class.

Bailey challenged attendees to embrace “fierce intentionality” within their personal spheres of influence, advocating for incremental, localized change. He encouraged supporting Westside businesses, mentoring young entrepreneurs and fostering genuine connections across racial and economic divides. His vision of leveraging Atlanta’s rich entrepreneurial history as a catalyst for future growth left attendees inspired to actively participate in the Westside’s transformation.

Miss the event? Watch the full Transform Westside Summit on YouTube.