BACC16: Thriving Through Change and Uncertainty
Last year in 2025, we gathered at BACC16 for an inspiring day of connection, learning, and celebration. We are still buzzing with gratitude for everyone who joined us — and we’re excited to share some highlights and memories with you.
CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
At BACC16, our speakers and panelists reminded us what it truly means to thrive in uncertain times — combining inspiration with practical strategies.
Keynote speaker Bridgette Lateice challenged us to see uncertainty as a pathway to growth. Her five principles — from reframing the storm, to leading with purpose, mastering the pivot, and thriving through community — left us with a powerful reminder: “You were never meant to just survive change — you were born to thrive and flourish.”
In the fireside chat, Brownie & Princess Sims (The Final Sauce) showed how family, food, and storytelling can become the foundation of a lasting brand and community impact.
Our panels explored the realities of building trust with clients in unpredictable markets and navigating financing challenges. Entrepreneurs and experts shared practical tools to strengthen relationships, access capital creatively, and stay resilient in the face of economic pressures.
THRIVE AWARD
One of the most powerful moments at BACC16 was the announcement of our 2025 THRIVE Award, presented by Kaiser Permanente. This award honors Bay Area entrepreneurs who exemplify resilience, adaptability, and innovation.
This year, we proudly celebrated an inspiring group of nominees:
Olton Rensch (Tallio’s Coffee & Tea) – Winner 🎉
Virada Chatikul (Stir Fry Stories)
Ben Harbor (Elise Kitchen + Catering)
Dupeola Badejo-Olayinka (Esin Skincare)
Nikki Lopez (Caregiver OneCall)
Antonia Lara Sanchez (Piscola Mami)
Candace Fisher (Agape & Shalom)
👏 Congratulations to our 2025 THRIVE Award Winner, Olton Rensch!
Olton’s journey is a testament to perseverance and community impact. After closing his Bayview location, he rebuilt by reopening inside the African American Cultural Center, partnered to host San Francisco Small Business Week for three consecutive years, and expanded Tallio’s Coffee with locations at Daly City Hall and Orinda — with plans underway for Elk Grove.
CAPITAL CONNECTIONS
After lunch, BACC16 hosted Capital Connections, a signature part of our conference designed to bridge entrepreneurs with the funding institutions that can help them grow.
Participants had the opportunity to sit down directly with capital providers, ask questions, and explore different types of financing options available to Bay Area small businesses.
We are grateful to our Capital Provider Partners who shared their expertise and resources:
US Bank
Pacific Community Ventures
Main Street Launch
Working Solutions
TMC Community Capital
Mission Driven Finance
Center by Lendistry
This session has been a cornerstone of BACC since the beginning — and this year’s conversations once again helped open doors to opportunity, capital, and growth for local entrepreneurs.
ENGAGING ACTIVATIONS
Our in-kind sponsors brought extra energy and creativity to BACC16, giving attendees unique ways to connect and celebrate:
- The Vibe Tribe set the stage for fun with a vibrant and beautifully designed photo booth that captured the spirit of the day.
- Pursuit of Peace Painting wowed the crowd with a live art performance, creating a piece that was later raffled off at our VIP Reception at Nido’s Backyard.
These activations added unforgettable moments that made BACC16 even more engaging and joyful.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors whose support made this event possible.
