The island of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts gave way to an exclusive convening of policy makers, small business advocates, U.S. Government representatives, entrepreneurs and investors during the “Unlocking Opportunity – Capital, Contracts & Community Investment” session that explored structural pathways to expand capital and contracting opportunities. In attendance, Mastercard, J.P. Morgan Chase, National Bankers Association, and Harbor Bank of Maryland. Latestsale.com, the 2025 AEO Social Impact Media Partner flew onto the island along with hundreds of high profile attendees including State Senator, Maryland Legislature, Senator Nick Charles during U.S. Black History month 2025. Delegates gathered for the AEO (Association for Enterprise Opportunity) and Joint Center showcase; “AEO Talks: Advancing Economic Power – Building Generational Wealth Through Business Ownership.”
AEO President and CEO Natalie Madeira Cofield Enlightens as She Brings Together the Financial Giants of Small Business Growth: Mastercard, J.P. Morgan Chase, National Bankers Association, and Harbor Bank of Maryland
As Latestsale.com continues our recap coverage in celebration of one year collaborating with the AEO, this year, 2026, marks the AEO’s 35th Anniversary. Under the leadership of President and CEO Natalie Madeira Cofield, we explore this riveting discussion on minority banking. focused on the role of Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) in expanding access to capital, supporting entrepreneurship, and creating long-term wealth within underserved communities.
Speakers across the board emphasized that financial, social, political, and human capital must work together to strengthen opportunities for minority-owned businesses. Jerry T. Sanford, Managing Director of The Harbor Bank of Maryland highlighted the value of community-based banking, alternative financing models, and equity capital in helping Black entrepreneurs access resources and grow sustainable enterprises.
Ted Archer, Executive Director of JPMorgan Chase & Co discussed the importance of supplier diversity and equitable procurement practices. Archer noted that the firm maintains an annual procurement budget of more than $23 billion and spends over $2 billion with diverse businesses, demonstrating how inclusive supply chains can contribute to economic growth and wealth creation.
Kendra Brown, Vice President at Mastercard communicated the need to support small business owners through stronger resources, networks, and strategic engagement. Nicole A. Elam, President and CEO of the National Bankers Association highlighted the importance of deposits, investment programs, and cross-sector partnerships in expanding visibility, improving access to capital, and supporting inclusive economic development.
Mastercard Confirms Continued Backing of Digital Doors and The Strive Program Initiative
Mastercard Vice President, Kendra Brown confirmed the financial organization’s commitment to helping small businesses to adapt, grow, and compete in an increasingly digital economy through initiatives such as Digital Doors (an educational and digital program) and the Strive Program https://www.mastercardstrive.org/ (a global philanthropic initiative led by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth that equips small and micro-enterprises with free training, digital tools, and mentoring). These programs were launched in regions including New York, Kansas, and Ohio.
The Mastercard mechanics that drive these digital business support programs forward provide entrepreneurs with practical tools, educational resources, and AI-powered assistance through its Small Business Navigator. Mastercard Vice President, Kendra Brown pointed to Mastercard’s $500 million commitment to advocate for communities of color whilst stressing the importance of helping small firms pivot, strengthen their online presence, and leverage e-commerce more effectively. The conversation also explored the need for business education that extends beyond payments, incorporating topics such as cybersecurity, digital readiness, and data-driven decision-making to help entrepreneurs build long-term resilience and growth.
JPMorgan Chase Commit to Supplier Diversity and Collaborative Investment
Ted Archer, Executive Director of JPMorgan Chase & Co examined JPMorgan Chase’s approach to supplier diversity and inclusive economic development. Archer highlighted how effective supplier diversity strategies can expand access to capital, contracts, and business opportunities while creating measurable outcomes across communities. Panelists connected entrepreneurship, home ownership, and wealth creation were key drivers of long-term economic mobility. The conversation extended to the importance of establishing stronger pipelines of capital and bolstering innovation at scale.
Ariel Alternatives was referenced as an example of collaborative investment, including a $200 million co-investment commitment designed to nurture micro enterprises, minority-owned enterprises and expand opportunities. Delegates noted that lasting impact requires collaboration, strategic partnerships, and collective action to create stronger, more resilient communities.