Conversations to Contracts Seminar
MWBE Seminar
Saturday, October 3, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Riverfront Library | 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers, NY
Join the City of Yonkers for Conversations to Contracts, a free seminar designed to help Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) learn, connect and grow.
Whether you’re looking to better understand the contracting process, access financing, or make connections that can lead to new opportunities, this event will bring together local business owners and industry professionals to share their experience and provide practical guidance.
The program will begin with opening remarks from Mayor Mike Spano, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Effie Phillips featuring successful MWBE business owners:
- Ka-wana Jefferson, Co-Owner, Lost Borough Ice Cream, Yonkers
- Kimberly Sevilla, CEO, Shelter Air HVAC Company, Beacon
- Queen Jacene, Founder and Executive Producer, Multi Dimensional Media
Following the panel, attendees will hear directly from experts on three key areas of doing business:
Process
Windell Gray, President/CEO, and Lloyd Dickerson, Vice President, Landon & Rian
Finance
Erika Fermin, Citizens Bank
Contracts
Miguel Martinez, City of Yonkers
The afternoon will conclude with networking, giving attendees an opportunity to meet fellow business owners, speakers and professionals and continue the conversations started throughout the day.
Schedule
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Check-In
11:00 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Mayor Mike Spano
Panel Discussion
12:00 PM
Process • Finance • Contracts
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Networking
Space is limited. RSVP today to reserve your spot.