Upcoming Events

POLARIS Upcoming Events


POLARIS & Bradley Legal Workshops
Jun
26

POLARIS & Bradley Legal Workshops

Bradley partners with Legal Services Alabama and its John Lewis Legal Services Fellowship Program to provide free legal services to Black small businesses and nonprofits in our community. This program is held virtually in Bradley’s Birmingham office with a limited number of appointments available for each clinic and takes place every fourth Thursday of each month. Among other services,

Available Services

Participants will have access to attorneys who will offer a range of free, business-oriented consultations, including:

  • Business Formation

  • Nonprofit Formation

  • Governance

  • Contracts

  • Intellectual Property (Trademark and Copyright)

Eligibility Requirements

The clinics are held monthly and are aimed at businesses and nonprofit organizations with:

  • Majority ownership and control by Black owners and leaders

  • 10 or fewer employees

  • New or established small business or nonprofit

  • Located in the Birmingham area

Clinic Dates and Locations

The clinic will take place on Thursday, June 26 at noon CST. All other clinics will be held on the fourth Thursday of each month at noon CST. The clinics are currently being held by video conference or phone.

They are virtual meetings, occurring over Zoom or telephone, from 12:00-1:00 pm. 

REGISTER NOW!!

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Jun
19

Ideas to Impact - Networking Happy Hour: Celebrate, connect, and dream forward together

In honor of Juneteenth, join us for an evening of celebration, reflection, and connection. This is more than a happy hour—it’s a space to uplift Black innovation, honor the legacy of freedom, and dream forward together. Enjoy curated conversations, meaningful connections, and a toast to progress and possibility.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Ideas to Impact -  Serial Entrepreneurship: System-Building for multiple business Success
Jun
19

Ideas to Impact - Serial Entrepreneurship: System-Building for multiple business Success

Having multiple business ideas isn’t chaos—it’s potential. Learn how to structure, manage, and scale several ventures with focus and clarity. Hear from seasoned serial entrepreneurs, accountants, and project managers who will show you how to make your business ecosystem work together. We’re bringing together seasoned experts—a strategic accountant, an operations-focused project manager, and a successful serial entrepreneur—to break down how to move from scattered ideas to structured impact. Whether you're in the early stages of building or already managing several businesses, this conversation will help you refine your mindset, understand key structural setups (think LLCs vs DBAs, shared services, tax implications), and create synergy between your ventures rather than letting them compete for your time and energy.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Ideas to Impact - Business Essentials 101 Ideas to Impact
Jun
19

Ideas to Impact - Business Essentials 101 Ideas to Impact

Build Your Business Essentials Workshop Powered by Vanguard’s 4C Accelerator

Vanguard’s 4C Accelerator Program is a new initiative designed to support businesses in construction, manufacturing, and tech services by providing access to essential tools, connections, and capital — including government and private contracts — to help them grow.

Whether you’re ready to join the 4C Accelerator or just starting out, this session will offer practical strategies to prepare you for future business opportunities.

Apply by our newly extended deadline: Tuesday, June 17 at 11:59 AM.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeRuH1-LTWeoUFtAoyRiudcEIPytLk4vTjPdQKAYojazSv0BA/viewform

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Ideas to Impact -  Storytelling for Impact: Owning the Narrative — Elevating nonprofit voices
Jun
18

Ideas to Impact - Storytelling for Impact: Owning the Narrative — Elevating nonprofit voices

For nonprofits, the story is the strategy. Discover how intentional storytelling can unlock funding, fuel advocacy, and galvanize your community. This panel explores how organizations can own their voice and amplify their mission with confidence and clarity. This Ideas to Impact panel is designed for nonprofit leaders and changemakers who feel overwhelmed by the day-to-day—but know their work deserves to be seen and supported. Together, we’ll explore how intentional storytelling can become a lever for fundraising, advocacy, and efficiency This Ideas to Impact panel is designed for nonprofit leaders and changemakers who feel overwhelmed by the day-to-day—but know their work deserves to be seen and supported. Together, we’ll explore how intentional storytelling can become a lever for fundraising, advocacy, and efficiency—not just branding. Learn how to embed narrative into your operations in ways that clarify your mission, energize your team, and strengthen your community relationships.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Jun
18

Ideas to Impact - From Ideas to Assets: The Legal Side of Innovation for Business Growth **Hosted in partnership with Bradley

Innovation starts with protection. Learn how to turn your intellectual property into a powerful business tool. This session covers trademarks, copyrights, and contracts—essentials every entrepreneur must understand to protect what they build. Your ideas are valuable—now let’s make sure they’re protected. This interactive workshop is designed to help emerging entrepreneurs and small business owners understand how to turn their creativity, products, and innovations into legally protected business assets. This session will walk you through the fundamentals of intellectual property (IP) including trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets. Whether you're building a brand, launching a product, or developing original content, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools to: * Understand what types of IP apply to your business * Protect your brand and ideas from the start * Navigate registration and enforcement processes * Avoid costly legal pitfalls as you scale.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Ideas to Impact - Food & Innovation: From Seed to Scale — Redefining food entrepreneurship
Jun
17

Ideas to Impact - Food & Innovation: From Seed to Scale — Redefining food entrepreneurship

What does it take to build the next wave of food businesses? Hear from chefs, tech leaders, and food manufacturers who are changing how we grow, cook, and distribute food. Whether you're launching a food truck or scaling a product line, this session offers bold, future-forward strategies for growth. Growing your food business and thinking how to innovate? Join us for From Seed to Scale: Innovating the Future of Food — a real-talk panel with entrepreneurs who are rethinking what’s possible in farming, food tech, and food manufacturing.

Featuring:

  • Anthony Clemons Bell peppers to pizza manufacturing

  • Jegil Duggard of PYE Technology Food tech innovation

  • Matthew Nesbit of Jones Valley

  • Zebbie Carney of Eugene's Hot Chicken

  • Roscoe Hall Artist, visual storyteller, and Culinary artist.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Ideas to Impact - Fireside Chat: From Steel to Social Impact — How Birmingham can lead the South in mission-driven business
Jun
16

Ideas to Impact - Fireside Chat: From Steel to Social Impact — How Birmingham can lead the South in mission-driven business

Fireside Chat: From Steel to Social Impact — How Birmingham can lead the South in mission-driven business

Once the backbone of American steel, Birmingham is now a rising force in mission-driven enterprise. Join this candid conversation on how cities can lead in social innovation by activating civic pride, policy, and business with purpose.

Featuring:

Professor Patrick Murphy- UAB Goodrich chair of entrepreneurship

Zhaundra Jones - Strategist & Ecosystem builder, VP of Philanthropy and learning Women's Foundation of Alabama.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Ideas to Impact
Jun
16
to Jun 20

Ideas to Impact

Innovate, Integrate & Ignite: Empowering the Modern Entrepreneur bringing together cutting-edge strategies and essential business fundamentals, Ideas to Impact 2025 is designed to spark creativity and fuel growth in:

  • Innovation in Digital Marketing: Dive into AI-driven marketing strategies.

  • Operational Excellence: Learn best practices in SOPs, hiring, and payroll.

  • Financial Mastery: Enhance financial literacy and explore wealth-building strategies.

  • Community & Connection: Understand why community building is vital for sustainable success.

  • Skill Monetization: Discover how to package your skills and purpose for profit.

  • Engaging Formats: Enjoy fireside chats, masterclasses (with partners like Valley Bank), and interactive sessions like podcasting classes.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Ideas to Impact -Fashion & Retail – “Threads to Thriving”
Jun
16

Ideas to Impact -Fashion & Retail – “Threads to Thriving”

Explore how Alabama’s deep-rooted history in textiles is inspiring a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs to think beyond the runway. This session breaks down how to scale creative brands through manufacturing, storytelling, and digital reach—while staying true to culture and community.

Featuring:

  • Olivia Anthony - Founder of Livstreet wear & The Raw edit Shop

  • Kwamell Laseter - Co founder of Voltron Prinitng

  • Duquette Johnston - Creative & Fashion Brand Owner

  • Aisha Taylor - Fashion Stylist & Ecosystem builder.

Ideas to Impact 2025 is the roadmap to integrating technology, finance, and community insights, igniting the path to entrepreneurial success in current times.

SAVE YOUR SEAT NOW!

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Financial Literacy: Income and Expenses
Apr
28

Financial Literacy: Income and Expenses

Income and Expenses

Join Chase Bank and POLARISBHM for an empowering Income & Expenses Workshop designed to help you take control of your finances! 💵📊 Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a freelancer, or simply looking to manage your money more effectively, this session will equip you with the tools to track income, manage expenses, and build financial confidence.

🔥 What You’ll Learn:
✅ How to create and maintain a smart budget
✅ Effective strategies for tracking income & expenses
✅ Tips to improve cash flow and financial planning

Don’t miss this chance to connect, collaborate, and grow. Spots are limited—reserve yours today!

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Financial Literacy: Improving Credit and Managing Debt Workshop
Mar
11

Financial Literacy: Improving Credit and Managing Debt Workshop

Empower Your Financial Future

Struggling with credit scores and overwhelming debt? Take control of your financial destiny with our "Improving Credit + Managing Debt" course! Learn proven strategies to boost your credit, manage debt wisely, and unlock financial freedom. It’s time to stop stressing and start building!

Don’t miss this chance to connect, collaborate, and grow. Spots are limited—reserve yours today!

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Maximize Your Refund & Minimize Your Stress
Feb
20

Maximize Your Refund & Minimize Your Stress

Are you ready to take control of your taxes and unlock opportunities to save money? Join us for an engaging session on Tax Preparation vs. Tax Planning, where you’ll learn the key differences between simply filing your taxes and strategically planning for them.

This interactive workshop will cover:

• Understanding the difference between tax preparation and tax planning.

• Common mistakes to avoid during tax season.

• Strategies to maximize deductions and credits for individuals and small business owners.

• Practical steps to create a year-round tax strategy.

• Tips to stay compliant and avoid penalties from the IRS.

What You’ll Walk Away With:

• A clear understanding of how proactive tax planning can save you money.

• Actionable steps to optimize your tax strategy for the current and upcoming tax year.

• Tools and resources to help you organize your financial documents.

• Confidence to approach tax season with a solid plan!

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain the knowledge and strategies you need to make informed decisions about your taxes and financial future. REGISTER NOW!

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Co-Work with Me Featuring Naila Jackson
Feb
11

Co-Work with Me Featuring Naila Jackson

Unlock Business Opportunities with Network Navigator

Calling all entrepreneurs and small business owners!

Join us for an exciting Co-Work with Me session featuring Network Navigator, an innovative tool designed to help you connect with valuable resources to grow your business.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, this event is your opportunity to:

  • Discover powerful connections that can fuel your business growth.

  • Explore how the Network Navigator tool bridges the gap between entrepreneurs and essential resources.

  • Engage in collaborative co-working with like-minded professionals in a dynamic environment.

Why Attend?
This is more than just a co-working session—it’s a chance to leverage cutting-edge tools and make meaningful connections that can take your business to the next level. Learn how Network Navigator simplifies resource discovery and opens doors to new opportunities.

Event Highlights:

  • Interactive demonstration of the Network Navigator tool

  • Networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs

  • Complimentary coffee and light refreshments

Don’t miss this chance to connect, collaborate, and grow. Spots are limited—reserve yours today!

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Co-Work with Me Featuring Monica Drake
Jan
30

Co-Work with Me Featuring Monica Drake

Unlock Your Business Potential with The E-Myth Revisited!

🎯 Are you ready to level up your business?
Join us for an engaging, light, and conversational discussion inspired by Michael Gerber’s groundbreaking book, The E-Myth Revisited. Discover the essential mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to succeed and learn how to work on your business, not just in it.

📚 What to Expect:
💡 A sneak peek into Pinnacle Financial Partners’ exclusive 6-week Business Mastermind 1.0 curriculum.
🗣️ Small group discussions centered around a key concept from the book—designed to spark ideas and actionable insights.
👥 Network with like-minded entrepreneurs in a relaxed setting.
📖 Complimentary copies of The E-Myth Revisited for participants.

This is just the beginning! Tease your brain, join the conversation, and let us know if you'd like to dive deeper in future workshops.

Let’s reimagine how you approach your business. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!

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Co-Work with Me Featuring Jeremy Duckworth
Dec
16

Co-Work with Me Featuring Jeremy Duckworth

Are you an entrepreneur looking to grow, innovate, and thrive? This is YOUR chance to connect with CARANow.org, experts in driving economic growth and creating opportunities in Central Alabama.

💼 What You’ll Learn:

1️⃣ Economic Development: Discover strategies to attract new business, retain existing ones, and create job opportunities in your community.
2️⃣ Business Retention & Expansion: Get resources, mentorship, and advocacy tailored to help your business scale.
3️⃣ Public-Private Partnerships: Unlock the power of collaboration between government, private sector, and nonprofits to fund and accelerate your projects.

🌟 Who Should Attend?

Innovators, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs ready to grow their network and learn actionable steps to success.

Bonus: Be one of the first 10 attendees to receive a complimentary coffee!

🎟️ Spots are limited! Don’t miss this opportunity to build connections and gain valuable insights.

➡️ Join us on December 16th and take your business to the next level.

Together, we’re building a thriving business community!

📆 BOOK NOW!!

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Coffee and Convo x POLARISBHM Collab
Dec
10

Coffee and Convo x POLARISBHM Collab

Join Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity and POLARISBHM for Lunch!! The Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity is bringing the energy, insights, and expertise you need to take your business from idea to thriving enterprise.

💼 What’s in it for you?
✔️ Insider tips on growing your business
✔️ Support for minority, women-led, and disadvantaged businesses
✔️ Networking with Birmingham’s brightest young entrepreneurs
✔️ A road map to economic opportunities tailored for YOU

🌐 Don’t miss this chance to learn how to build, grow, and succeed in your entrepreneurial journey. The future of Birmingham's business starts with YOU.

🎟️ Reserve your spot NOW! Limited seats available.

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Co-Work with Me Featuring Angela Abdur-Rasheed
Dec
3

Co-Work with Me Featuring Angela Abdur-Rasheed

This December, we’re excited to welcome PROSPER, an organization specializing in Inclusive Economic Development, Entrepreneurship, Community Engagement, and Partnership Building, to our Co-Work with Me series!

💡 Why Attend?
✔️ Gain expert insights into creating sustainable and inclusive business growth.
✔️ Learn strategies to engage your community and build meaningful partnerships.
✔️ Network with like-minded entrepreneurs in a collaborative environment.
✔️ Explore actionable steps to elevate your business goals.

Bonus Perk: Be among the first 10 attendees and enjoy complimentary coffee!

🤝 Who Should Attend?
Whether you're just starting out, scaling up, or looking to create a lasting impact, this session is packed with inspiration and tools to help you thrive.

🎟️ Seats are limited, so RSVP now!

🔗 Join the conversation

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March Madness at POLARIS
Mar
1
to Mar 31

March Madness at POLARIS

Welcome to March Madness at POLARIS! Join us for free co working & classes on business operations the month of March. We can’t wait to see you!

Join us in the month of March for days filled with working toward your ideas and goals. This event will be held at POLARIS Flexible co working & event space, the perfect location for a day of networking and collaboration. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and take your projects to the next level. Come ready to be inspired and energized!

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Event Five
Jan
7

Event Five

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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Event Three
Jan
6

Event Three

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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