Power, Progress, and Possibility: Prince George’s Finance & Technology Forum Charts a Bold Future

Prince George’s County trendsetters are making serious moves—and the buzz surrounding the recent Finance & Technology Forum proves it. Held on May 22, 2025, in Mitchellville, this high-impact event wasn’t just a networking opportunity—it was a declaration of intent. An intent to lead. To innovate. And to build an inclusive economy powered by collaboration, capital, and cutting-edge technology.

The Forum, hosted by the Norman F. Holmes Foundation (NFHF) in partnership with Nudawn Marketing Group, is part of a larger initiative that began in March with the “Prince George’s Business & Economic Imperative.” In just a few short months, this series has evolved into a signature platform for reimagining the county’s economic trajectory.

And what a trajectory it is. Entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and public-sector leaders gathered for a day packed with insight, inspiration, and real-world strategies. The energy in the room? Purpose-driven. The goal? Economic empowerment, access to capital, and technological advancement—delivered with bold vision and tactical precision.

Financial Power Moves: Tools for the Times

The morning kicked off with the “Financial Power Moves” panel, moderated by Maria Randall of Lladnar Services. This powerhouse session pulled no punches, addressing the pressing need for strategic financial resilience among small businesses. Panelists included top minds from major financial institutions: Andrew Carlson (Capital One), Nicole Cawley (United Bank), Dawn Medley (FSC First), Doyle Mitchell (Industrial Bank), Cassius Priestley (Truist), and Dr. Malcolm Tyson (TEDCO).

From their combined expertise came a clear message: relationship-building is key. “Start a relationship with your bank before you need funding,” one panelist advised—a reminder that access to capital is often predicated on trust and preparedness. Other golden takeaways? Keep profits in the business, always innovate, and nurture strategic relationships that support sustainable growth.

The Digital Edge: Technology as Transformation

With minds primed for financial empowerment, the conversation pivoted to the future of tech. “The Digital Edge” panel, moderated by James John of Fortinet, offered a dynamic exploration of how technology is reshaping Prince George’s County.

Leaders like Walter Burks (Management Solutions Consulting), John P. Sawyer (Mid-Atlantic Quantum Alliance), Amanda Stein (Quantum Catalyzer), Tracye Turner (Optimal Solutions & Revelo Software), and Vennard Wright (Per Vista AI) offered their insights on AI, cybersecurity, and the rising influence of quantum technologies.

Their conclusion? Prince George’s is more than ready to lead—if it seizes the moment.

Education, Workforce, and Economic Mobility

Dr. Falecia Williams, President of Prince George’s Community College, underscored how education will power this tech-forward vision. With PGCC investing in courses on AI and quantum computing, the region is actively preparing a workforce ready to meet future demand.

“Presence is no longer enough,” Dr. Williams emphasized. “We must move beyond simply showing up to ensuring post-completion success that fuels economic mobility and community vibrancy. That’s the real return on investment.”

Fireside Chat: A Vision for Global Impact

The morning’s marquee moment was a fireside chat between Orlan Johnson, Chairman of the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation, and two national heavyweights: Rachel Waters, Director at Cisco Systems, and Matthew McGuire, Strategic Corporate Advisor and former U.S. Executive Director of the World Bank.

The conversation ranged from venture capital to Maryland’s burgeoning leadership in quantum technologies. McGuire and Waters both emphasized the need for public-private alignment to drive scalable, inclusive innovation.

And Prince George’s is taking note.

A County Poised for Greatness

“In Prince George’s County, we’ve spent too much time focused on what’s missing instead of recognizing the innovation already here,” said Greg Holmes, Executive Director of NFHF and co-host of the Forum. “This event was about a new, different kind of leadership and spotlighting the dynamic IT businesses driving our future.”

Holmes was particularly energized by the presence of giants like Cisco Systems and Fortinet. Their participation—and their stated enthusiasm for investing in the County—is, in his words, “a game-changer for our tech ecosystem.”

More Than a Forum—A Movement

By day’s end, attendees walked away with more than just business cards and brochures. They left with actionable insights, real connections, and a renewed sense of urgency to be part of a rising tide.

This wasn’t just an event. It was a call to action—and the latest step in a movement to position Prince George’s County as a national model for inclusive economic and technological growth.

With finance, innovation, education, and leadership aligned, one thing is clear: Prince George’s isn’t waiting for the future. It’s building it—boldly and unapologetically.