On Saturday, the Hawks and Chase came together to empower 10 ‘Rookie Entrepreneurs’ through a series of educational workshops focused on financial literacy and understanding finances.

The event, held at the Chase Summerhill Branch, featured a surprise fireside chat with Hawks Forward-Center Onyeka Okongwu, who spoke with the entrepreneurs on their career and financial journeys.

Following the fireside chat, Onyeka revealed that the Hawks and Chase would donate $2,500 to each small business, offering further support for their ongoing growth and development.

“We are proud to partner with Chase in championing the entrepreneurial spirit and equipping small businesses with the resources and insights needed for sustainable growth,” said Alexis Roe, Vice President of DEI Impact and Strategic Initiatives. “By addressing the unique challenges entrepreneurs face and providing them with vital support, we strive to create a level playing field that unlocks their full potential, fostering an ecosystem where innovation, economic empowerment, and long-term success can thrive. We celebrate their resilience and remain committed to driving meaningful impact in Atlanta’s business community.”

Entrepreneurs attending the event represented a diverse array of industries, from clothing and apparel to event planning. The businesses include Dayo, Don Hansen Visuals LLC, Dope Pieces, Georgia’s Finest Events, The Law Office of Chassidy Guidry, Lofinda Luxury’s, Mom’s Movement Company, Project Chick Planner, Social Xurrency, and Tracye’s Culinary Creation, LLC.

The event kicked off with lunch and networking for the entrepreneurs, followed by opening remarks from Mathilda Lambert, Community Manager at Chase.

“When small businesses succeed, Atlanta thrives. We're committed to helping local entrepreneurs access the resources they need to build strong, sustainable businesses that drive economic opportunity across our city,” said Lambert. “Through our partnership with the Hawks, we’re proud to continue supporting first-time entrepreneurs and ensure they have the tools needed to thrive in Atlanta's dynamic economy.”

The entrepreneurs participated in two workshops aimed at enhancing their financial health to support their business development journey. These workshops emphasized key topics such as the significance of establishing and sustaining credit, understanding the impact of capital, and managing cash flow effectively.

This event is the latest endeavor in the Hawks and Chase’s commitment to supporting economic development, small businesses, and entrepreneurs. Earlier this month, to celebrate Black History Month, the Hawks Shop and Chase collaborated with Doodlejor, an Atlanta-based artist and illustrator, to produce a new hoodie and crewneck that celebrates local entrepreneurship.

The Hawks and Chase x Doodlejor collection is available now on Hawksshop.com/Doodlejor.

Tonight, the Hawks will host their seventh annual ‘HBCU Night presented by Chase’ at the award-winning State Farm Arena. The organization will celebrate the educational excellence and unique culture of more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which were originally founded as institutions of higher learning for African Americans.

All fans in attendance will also a special rally towel courtesy of Chase. Limited tickets remain and are available at Hawks.com/tickets.

To learn more about the partnership between Chase and the Hawks, visit Chase.com/Hawks.