During the latest installment of Verizon’s 5G Connecting Communities Series community leaders from across Northern Virginia discussed the intersection of technology and the needs of entrepreneurs and small businesses. The panelists are community partners working to grow and support startups and small businesses across Northern Virginia. The event highlighted the positive benefits 5G technology can provide businesses and communities across the region to advance their goals. Watch the full event below!
Events
How Tribes Are Tackling Today’s Biggest Challenges
Join Verizon’s Rima Qureshi for a one-on-one conversation with former Commissioner for the Administration for Native Americans, Lillian Sparks Robinson. The two discussed the current challenges that Indian Country is experiencing, in addition to how they overcome these obstacles by leveraging education and other crucial resources. In case you missed it, be sure to check out this recording of the event!
Gridiron Giving: Tackling Hunger in Arizona & Louisiana
Verizon is excited to support a little friendly competition with the Arizona Cardinals and the New Orleans Saints ahead of their game on Thursday, October 20, 2022. Between now and kick off, both teams will be raising money for local food banks to help tackle food insecurity in their communities.
Far too many Americans struggle to put food on the table. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), 34 million people—including 9 million children—identify as food insecure. In Arizona, that translates into 1 in 9 people experiencing food insecurity. In Louisiana, that number is 1 in 7.
Join your favorite team to see who can raise the most funds before October 20. Every donation helps.
To learn more about the campaign and to donate to a foodbank to support your favorite team, visit www.gridirongiving.com today.

Pride Digital Business Solutions: Thriving in the Digital Economy
Verizon was proud to host a collaborative event for LBGTQ+ business owners to close out Pride Month 2022. From cyber security threats to building efficiency in an age of digital innovation, this panel of experts discussed how to help businesses not only recover—but thrive in the ever-changing economic environment.
The Program featured four segments on: Business Internet, Cybersecurity and Verizon’s Small Business Digital Ready program
Click on one of the videos below to learn more about each subject.
Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth: The Power of Community Engagement
In celebration of Pride Month 2022, Verizon’s State Government Affairs and PRISM, Verizon’s LGBTQ Employee Resource Group convened a national conversation with community partners working to empower and support LGBTQ+ youth across the country. Guest speakers from the Boston Alliance of LGBTQ Youth (BAGLY), Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders (SMYAL), The Center on Colfax, and the LYRIC Center for LGBTQQ Youth shared their insights and how their organizations are taking action to protect and advocate for young people. Check out the full event video below!
Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth: The Power of Community Engagement
5G Connecting Communities Series: Women Leading the Way in Tech
On Tuesday, May 17, 2022, the women of Verizon’s SGA East Region as kicked off the 5G Connecting Communities Series through conversations with women who are leading the way in tech. Leaders from New York, Washington D.C., and Virginia discussed economic development, STEM education, and digital divide investments happening up and down the coast. The event spotlighted how 5G drives local communities, including the nonprofit partners, businesses, and government leaders from across the region who are leveraging technology to advance their work.
Speakers included:
Candice Austin, Director, State Government & Local Affairs, Verizon; Jessica Chait, Manager, State & Local Government Affairs, Verizon; Danielle Craddock, Founder/Director, Girls Inspired and Ready to Lead, Inc.; Kathleen Grillo, SVP, Public Policy & Government Affairs, Verizon; Kassandra Perez-Desir, Regional Director, Government Affairs & Public Policy, Verizon; Kelly Schulz, Former Secretary of the Maryland Department of Commerce & Department of Labor; and Michelle Watson, Tech Program Supervisor, Queens Chamber of Commerce.
Innovating Women: Leading Midwest Tech into the Future
To close out Women’s History Month 2022, Verizon’s Nia Mathis spoke with Patty Hagen, T-REX; Elle Ramel, GET Cities Chicago; Michelle Reaves, Detroit Area Pre College Engineering Program (DAPCEP); and Marie Mackintosh, EmployIndy about creating intentional lanes for women and girls in tech – and ultimately how to create a more diverse workforce. Catch the replay below:
Event: Venture Miami – Fueling Miami’s Tech Future
On May 6, 2021, US Tech Future hosted a panel, “Venture Miami, Fueling Miami’s Tech Future” featuring Saif Ishoof, Florida International University Vice President of Engagement & Mayor of Miami’s Senior Advisor for Information & Technology; Melissa Krinzman, VC in Residence, City of Miami; Kevin Ruiz, Venture Miami/DDA Business Development Manager; and Mike Sarasti, CIO / Director of Innovation & Technology, City of Miami.