Orange County Insight September 2022

The Quad County Business Summit Presents Networking and Learning Opportunities for Local Businesses

By: Orange County Communications Department

Entering its seventh year, the Quad County Business Summit will return on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at the Bluegreen Shenandoah Crossing Resort, located at 174 Horseshoe Circle, Gordonsville, VA. This event was originally organized by the economic development offices of Orange County, Fluvanna County, Greene County, and Louisa County (hence the “ Quad ”

County name), as well as the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC). Though the name remains Quad County Business Summit, the event expanded last year to include Madison County. Businesses within the five (5) host counties can register to attend the summit for free, and enjoy the full range of networking and education offered (along with a free lunch). Please visit www.qcbsummit.com to register. Discounted rooms are available during registration for attendees who would like to stay the night at the resort. The summit will feature events from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., including a keynote speaker, local business owner panel discussion with a question and answer session, and the Annual QuadTank, a winner - take - all pitch competition,

This year ’ s keynote speaker will be Kelli Palmer, Chief Diversity Officer at WillowTree, a full - service digital product consultancy with over 1,000 team members, headquartered in Charlottesville, VA. Prior to WillowTree, Palmer was CFA Institute ’ s Head of Global Inclusion & Diversity and Corporate Citizenship. In this role, Palmer led the strategic direction of CFA ’ s internal initiatives to improve the organization ’ s ability to recruit, retain, and promote an inclusive, diverse, and culturally competent employee base. Palmer focuses on the organization's culture to ensure success and to maintain and attract a high - quality workforce.

Other distinguished speakers will include Wesley Chiles, and André Xavier. Mr. Chiles created and owns Chiles Enterprises LLC, a landscaping company that relies heavily on core values, which he works to exemplify is his daily life. In April, Chiles Enterprises celebrated 20 years, and their goal is to become the best employer in Louisa County by measure of team culture, work environment, and opportunity for advancement. Mr. Xavier is a successful serial entrepreneur and author. He is an expert in the tourism industry, owner of C ’ Ville Travel, C ’ Ville Tours, C ’ Ville Transportation, and Casa X Publishing. Additionally, he co - owns Patch Brewing Company, Virginia Hop on Tours, and C ’ Ville 3D.

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