Key Speakers and Honorees for 22nd Annual East-West Business Connection, Presented by Horizon Bank

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce (APACC)

APACC Announces Key Speakers and Honorees for the 22nd Annual East-West Business Connection, Presented by Horizon Bank

Clawson, MI – February 12, 2025 – The Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce (APACC) is proud to announce the distinguished speakers and award recipients for its 22nd Annual East-West Business Connection, presented by Horizon Bank, taking place on March 5, 2025, at Wayne State University. This premier global supplier diversity matchmaking event continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering economic growth, strategic partnerships, and supplier education.

This year’s event features two dynamic keynote speakers addressing critical topics for businesses navigating today’s evolving economic and technological landscape:

• Morning Program: "The AI Advantage: Building Resilience and Scaling for Growth" – Charles Elwood, Founder and AI Expert at SolisMatica LLC, will show how businesses of all sizes can leverage artificial intelligence to act and compete like industry giants. A Microsoft AI MVP,and Co-President of the West Michigan Asian American Association, Elwood spent nearly two decades (2002–2020) in the automotive sector, working at Delphi Automotive and Johnson Controls on informatics, predictive maintenance, and communication systems. He used these AI-driven insights to grow his own small startup, culminating in a successful trade mission to Indonesia focused on AI innovation. In his presentation, Elwood will share practical strategies to help attendees effectively integrate AI, scale their operations, and remain agile in a constantly evolving marketplace.
• Lunch Program: "Resilience in Transition: Adapting to Economic Shifts and Policy Evolution" – Dr. Bryan K. Kieler, DBA, will explore strategies for businesses to remain resilient amidst shifting economic policies and global market changes. With over 22 years of experience in financial services and community development lending, Dr. Kieler has led multimillion-dollar financing initiatives to support low-income communities and nonprofits. In addition to his leadership within the financial services industry, he serves as an adjunct professor at multiple universities, specializing in leadership, strategy, and finance.

In addition to these impactful discussions, APACC will recognize two outstanding leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing minority and diverse businesses:

• Minority Business Advocate Award: Travis Spencer
  Spencer is recognized for his unwavering dedication to fostering economic opportunities and advocating for minority-owned businesses. His leadership and commitment to supplier diversity have significantly contributed to the growth and success of diverse entrepreneurs.
• Trailblazer of Excellence Award: Jimmy Hsiao / Logic Solutions
  This award honors Jimmy Hsiao and Logic Solutions for their innovation, leadership, and excellence in the technology sector. Logic Solutions, a global company specializing in digital transformation, has been at the forefront of empowering businesses through cutting-edge software development and IT solutions.

“The 22nd Annual East-West Business Connection, presented by Horizon Bank remains a premier platform for fostering strategic business relationships and advancing supplier diversity,” said Event Chair Chris Naidoo, Chairman of the Sigma Group. “In a rapidly evolving landscape driven by artificial intelligence and the ever-changing policies shaping global markets, it is imperative for entrepreneurs to develop the agility and strategic foresight necessary to adapt. This event will provide businesses with the critical insights needed to navigate these complexities effectively. We are also honored to recognize Travis Spencer and Jimmy Hsiao for their outstanding contributions to supplier diversity and innovation—principles that align with the mission and values of this gathering. Hosting this event at Wayne State University, the epicenter of business innovation and startups in Detroit, underscores our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth. I encourage business leaders, entrepreneurs, and procurement professionals to take advantage of this opportunity to connect, learn, and position themselves for future success.”

The event will feature supplier exhibitions, one-on-one Meet the Buyer, and key networking opportunities with corporate leaders, procurement professionals, and entrepreneurs.

For more information or to register for the event, visit www.apacc.net/ewbc.

About APACC
The Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce (APACC) facilitates business relationships among business owners with Asian heritage and U.S.-based companies and promotes the economic advancement of Asian American Pacific Islanders and our community. APACC is a non-political non-profit organization.