Baptist sponsored the 2025 Economic Development Forum (EDF), hosted by the Mid-South Minority Business Council (MMBC) Continuum, on Tuesday, Sept. 9 through Thursday, Sept. 11 at the Renasant Convention Center in Memphis. The forum brought together corporations, small business owners and community partners to focus on equipping entrepreneurs with resources and insights for future growth.
Approximately 700 registered attendees participated in the forum, which was themed “Future Focused.” Participants gained access to numerous seminars, workshops and speaking engagements that covered a wide array of topics, including leveraging AI, workforce development and strategic partnerships.
“Baptist’s commitment to the Mid-South business community was evident through our participation in the forum,” said Keith Norman, vice president/chief government affairs and community relations officer for Baptist and MMBC board chair. “We reinforced our commitment as a long-term investor in local business growth and innovation.”
During the forum, members of the Baptist team participated in Corporate Connect, a series of focused, 15-minute meetings designed to build new relationships between large companies and small businesses. The Baptist team successfully forged eight new connections, creating meaningful opportunities and strengthening partnerships with local business owners.
Norman also joined community leaders in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Vision Vault, an immersive exhibit hall that served as a centerpiece for the event.
