10 delegates from the African diaspora in Latin America will be coming to make professional connections in San Diego exploring the role of small business owners in driving economic development, democratization, and stabilization. They will examine the contributions of African Americans and Indigenous peoples to the community, the economy, education, and politics. They will also explore national, state, and local government policies and legal mechanisms that advance access to economic opportunities highlighting the evolution of the job market in the United States and how higher education and vocational schools prepare individuals to join the workforce. Finally, they will explore strategies to promote public-private partnerships that advance education and business opportunities.