JP Morgan Chase Presents: Windows of Opportunity

Windows of Opportunity: Unlocking Supplier Diversity & Certification Pathways About the Event ​Windows of Opportunity is the fourth workshop in the CreateHER Fest × JPMorgan Chase Coaching for Impact series, designed for business owners ready to expand into new markets by positioning their business for supplier diversity opportunities. ​During #75HER, participants are building projects, refining ideas, and exploring pathways to scale and sustainability. For many, growth requires access to larger markets, repeatable revenue streams, and relationships with government agencies or corporate partners. This workshop focuses on what comes next: how to approach supplier diversity and certification strategically, understand what these pathways actually offer, and prepare responsibly rather than reactively. ​Rather than treating certification as a checkbox or quick fix, this session provides a clear, practical framework for understanding how supplier diversity functions across government and corporate environments, what readiness actually looks like, and how to decide whether certification aligns with your business's long-term strategy. You'll learn how to navigate government contracting, evaluate your operational maturity, and position your business to compete effectively when the time is right. ​Grounded in real-world business scenarios and supported by the Windows of Opportunity workbook, this workshop helps builders move from "I've heard about certification" to "I know if it's right for me, and I'm prepared." It's designed for anyone who wants to understand supplier diversity pathways without guesswork or overwhelm. ​This session is especially valuable for participants currently in the Idea-thon or preparing for the Hackathon, as well as anyone exploring structured growth opportunities and long-term market expansion. ​What You'll Walk Away With ​A clear understanding of what supplier diversity is and how it functions across government and corporate environments​Insight into how to navigate government contracting, including eligibility requirements and small business qualifications​An overview of government and corporate supplier diversity programs and how businesses access them​Clarity on working toward certification, including preparation, timelines, and common readiness gaps​Practical guidance on how to make the most of certification once achieved—beyond simply holding the credential​A stronger sense of whether certification is the right next step for your business and how to prepare responsibly ​Who This Is For ​Women-owned and diverse-owned businesses exploring certification opportunities​Entrepreneurs interested in government or corporate contracting​Small business owners preparing for growth into larger markets​Founders seeking structured, repeatable revenue opportunities​Businesses evaluating whether supplier diversity aligns with their long-term strategy ​Not for: ​Participants expecting immediate contract awards or guaranteed access to opportunities​Businesses in the pre-revenue or conceptual stage without operational history​Anyone seeking certification shortcuts or workarounds rather than readiness-focused preparation ​What You Need to Participate ​An existing business or active venture​Willingness to assess your business honestly for readiness and capacity​The Windows of Opportunity workbook (provided)​A notebook or digital notes tool​No prior certification or contracting experience required ​About the Facilitators Skyler ParksVice President & Senior Business Consultant, JPMorgan Chase Skyler Parks is a Vice President and Senior Business Consultant at JPMorgan Chase, where he focuses on creating opportunity and supporting minority business owners, entrepreneurs, and the next generation of leaders. With an MBA from Walsh University and a background rooted in business management and marketing, Skyler brings both strategic expertise and a passion for service to every engagement. His work is grounded in the belief that entrepreneurship and community go hand in hand — making him a natural fit for the Windows of Opportunity conversation. ​Teresa Morales-Bargar ​Vice President & Community Manager, Community & Business Development, JPMorgan Chase ​Teresa Morales-Bargar serves as a trusted local ambassador for JPMorgan Chase in Cleveland, with over 18 years of experience across Retail, Consumer, and Business Banking. She specializes in building partnerships with nonprofits, small businesses, and community leaders to drive lasting economic impact. ​Her work includes financial health workshops, nonprofit collaborations, and community programming focused on expanding access to supplier diversity pathways and competitive positioning. Teresa serves on multiple advisory councils and has been recognized as one of Crain's 2025 Women of Influence and 100+ Latinos to Know in Cleveland (2025). ​Part of a Larger Series ​This workshop is part of a CreateHER Fest × JPMorgan Chase series continuing through Women's History Month and the March 2026 BuildHER Parade, covering: ​Marketing and digital visibility​Business foundations and readiness​Access to capital and financial pathways ​Each session is designed to meet builders where they are—whether you're exploring an idea, preparing for a hackathon, or laying the groundwork for a sustainable business.