A weekend for Black leaders in ministry and business to gain clarity, strategy, and community — built around this year's theme, LIFT As We Climb.
Every part of the weekend builds on the one before it — from naming your calling Friday night to walking out Sunday ready to lead.
Five sessions, each building on the last — from vision to leadership, strategy, funding, and the tools to carry it all out.
Before you can LIFT, you need clarity on what you're lifting toward. This opening session guides you through vision mapping — naming your calling, clarifying your next year's purpose, and organizing the practical steps to get there.
Pastor Annette Jones
Ministry and business both rise or fall on leadership. This session equips you to lead with authenticity in both spaces — building high-performing teams, navigating the challenges unique to Black leaders, and shaping a culture rooted in Kingdom values.
Rev. Zaneta Y. Dabney
Sustainable ministries and businesses are built on knowing your market, not guessing at it. This session brings an executive lens to growth — your follower base, competitive positioning, and the data behind smart growth decisions.
Rev. Melanie Jones Quarles, Ph.D.
Vision without funding stalls. This session gives you the practical tools to fund what God has called you to build — fund development, grant writing, and funding sources for ministry and business startups.
Carla Brailey, Ph.D.
AI is reshaping how ministries and businesses operate — and this session puts it directly in your hands. Learn to use AI ethically and strategically for content creation, curriculum, and operations.
Business and ministry aren't separate callings — they're complementary expressions of Kingdom work. This retreat equips Black leaders to lead with authenticity and vision, and to innovate with clarity in a competitive market, building enterprises that create impact for the Church and community.
Vision means nothing without the resources and tools to carry it out. This retreat centers Kingdom stewardship — from funding the ministries and businesses God has called you to build, to using modern technology, including AI, to extend that impact further than ever before.
You're ready to level up — no more playing small or waiting for permission.
You want real strategy — not just inspiration, but plans you can implement immediately.
You crave community — connect with leaders who understand your journey.
You're tired of barriers — learn to navigate and overcome systemic challenges.
You value your investment — you want maximum impact for your time and money.
You're called to lead — ready to step fully into your ministry assignment.
“This wasn't just inspiration — it was strategy I could put into practice the very next day.”
— Rev. La Tonja“I walked in unsure of my own voice. I walked out knowing exactly who I am — and ready to let the world know it too.”
— Minister Lavonn“Rest is power. This retreat reminded me of that.”
— JoannaThis isn't random timing. November positions you perfectly to:
Before the new year rush.
With clear direction and tools.
During the most strategic time for planning.
When leaders are making their biggest decisions.
Successful Black leaders who've broken barriers, built platforms, and blazed trails — and found the shortcuts to success along the way.





We're intentionally keeping this intimate — personal attention from facilitators, meaningful connection with fellow participants, interactive workshops instead of auditorium lectures.
Every day you wait is another day your full potential stays locked away. Your community needs what you have to offer. Your calling is too important to keep playing small.
Questions? Email us · 708-333-9521 · Schedule a 15-minute call
Parking is complimentary and on-site. Partner hotel discounts are available, and the venue is fully accessible.
This isn't just about you. Every Black leader who steps fully into their ministry calling creates space for the next person to do the same. When you register for BIG, you're contributing to a movement changing the landscape of faith leadership.
Your voice matters. Your ministry matters. Your business matters. You matter.
Register Now — Spaces Filling Fast