SOUTHFIELD, Mich.—The National Entrepreneurs Association will host its highly anticipated 2026 Entrepreneurs Forum on Friday, May 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lawrence Technological University’s University Technology and Learning Center Gallery (building 3 at ltu.edu/map/).
This dynamic event will bring together entrepreneurs, small business owners, and industry influencers for a powerful morning of learning, networking, and collaboration.
Designed to help entrepreneurs grow and succeed in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the Entrepreneurs Forum has been a cornerstone event since its inception, connecting business leaders with the tools, insights, and relationships they need to thrive.
This year’s forum will feature expert-led training sessions, and an engaging panel discussion, “The Truth About AI – Myths, Misconceptions and Growth Strategies for Entrepreneurs,” offering attendees practical strategies and fresh perspectives on key business challenges and opportunities. Participants will also gain access to valuable business resources, exhibitors, and vendors showcasing products and services designed to support entrepreneurial growth.
A highlight of the event is the opportunity for meaningful connections through structured networking experiences, including a power networking lunch, where attendees can build relationships with like-minded professionals and potential partners.
The forum will also feature an inspiring closing keynote from Glenda Lewis, a five-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and founder and CEO of the Lewis Legacy Initiative, who will share her powerful journey and the inspiration behind her mission to support caregivers.
“The Entrepreneurs Forum is more than just an event, it’s a catalyst for growth,” said ZaLonya Allen, PhD, president of the National Entrepreneurs Association. “Our mission is to empower entrepreneurs with the education, connections, and resources they need to build successful businesses.”
Small business resource providers will be available throughout the event to connect attendees with valuable community tools and support services designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners succeed. Participating organizations include the Small Business Administration, the City of Southfield, the Southfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Detroit Chapter of the AI Collective, and the National Entrepreneurs Association of Michigan.
NEA, a nonprofit organization founded in 2018, is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs through high-quality educational programs, certification training, and networking opportunities. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the organization continues to play a vital role in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Entrepreneurs at all stages are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn, connect, and grow. This event is sponsored by Lawrence Tech and the City of Southfield. For more information and to register, visit: www.nationalentrepreneurs.org/2026-entrepreneurs-forum.
LTU students and staff can RSVP for complimentary tickets at supportstaff@nationalentrepreneurs.org.
Lawrence Technological University is one of only 13 independent, technological, comprehensive doctoral universities in the United States. Located in Southfield, Mich., LTU was founded in 1932, and offers more than 100 programs through its Colleges of Architecture and Design, Arts and Sciences, Business and Information Technology, Engineering, and Health Sciences, as well as Specs@LTU, which offers communication training programs of the former Specs Howard School, and LTU’s growing Center for Professional Development. PayScale lists Lawrence Tech among the nation’s top 11 percent of universities for alumni salaries. Forbes and The Wall Street Journal rank LTU among the nation’s top 10 percent. U.S. News and World Report lists it in the top tier of best in the Midwest colleges. Students benefit from small class sizes and a real-world, hands-on, “theory and practice” education with an emphasis on leadership. Activities on Lawrence Tech’s 107-acre campus include more than 60 student organizations and NAIA varsity sports.