A Unique Chance for Local Leaders to Grow and Thrive

In February 2026, a special event called the Mission-Rich Experience Live will take place in Western Massachusetts. This event is for leaders of nonprofits and small businesses who want to improve their skills and make their organizations stronger. The event is organized by Mission-Rich Academy, which was started by LaTonia Monroe-Naylor. She is a leadership expert, author, and member of the Springfield School Committee. The goal of the event is to help leaders who are doing important work but find it hard to keep their organizations running smoothly. Many leaders have good ideas and work hard, but they struggle with things like getting enough money and building strong systems. Monroe-Naylor noticed this problem because she went through leadership programs that didn't teach her how to build a business or nonprofit from the ground up. She wanted to create something that would fill this gap. That's why she made this two-day event. It will focus on strategy, structure, and systems that are culturally aligned and sustainable.To make the event more accessible, Mission-Rich Academy teamed up with the Latino Economic Development Corporation. They offered 10 scholarships to local micro-business owners in Springfield. The application deadline has passed, and the winners will be announced soon. Andrew Melendez, the founder of the LEDC, believes that strong businesses need more than just hard work. They need strategy, systems, and a clear mission. That's why he supports this event. He thinks investing in local business owners is a way to help the whole region grow economically. Tickets for the event are available online, with options for general admission and VIP access. It's a good idea to register early because space is limited. Plus, there are special pre-event trainings that are only offered once. This event is a great opportunity for leaders to learn and grow. It's also a chance for the community to support and invest in its own future.