Big outcomes don't always start with big moves.
They start with a question asked at a roundtable. A business card exchanged over lunch. A five-minute conversation that turns into a five-year partnership. As a business owner, you know that access matters — being in the right room, at the right table, with the right people can shift the entire trajectory of your business. This event is designed to create that room for you.
Every roundtable, every fireside chat, every resource table is built to put you in proximity to the people and conversations that can move your business forward. One conversation leads to an introduction. One introduction leads to an opportunity. That's how meaningful business relationships are built — not through a single transaction, but through connections that grow over time. Small things compound.
Join us at the Oakstop California Ballroom on May 21, 2026.
The next connection that changes your business might start with a single conversation.
Date & TimeThursday, May 21, 20268:30 am - 3:30 pm PT
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Breakfast and Keynote Speaker, Featuring Myla Ramos and Donna Ruff
Start your morning with a light breakfast and the opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, partners, and small businesses before the program begins. Next, join WRMSDC President & CEO Donna Ruff as she welcomes keynote speaker Myla Ramos, CEO & Co-Founder of Search Pros.
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Let’s Connect Networking
During this networking hour, attendees are invited to connect with small businesses, corporate partners, and community-based organizations in the California Ballroom and the Connection Tables in the California Lounge.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Roundtable Discussions
Join small group conversations designed to spark ideas, share experiences, and create meaningful dialogue across industries and perspectives.
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Awards Luncheon
Celebrate excellence and achievement within the WRMSDC community as we recognize outstanding businesses, partners, and leaders making an impact.
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Let’s Connect Networking Reception
Close out the day with continued networking in a relaxed setting, giving you time to strengthen connections and build on conversations started earlier.
Myla Ramos, CEO and Co-Founder of SearchPros comes from immigrant roots to national recognition. Myla has spent over two decades building a company that has placed more than 20,000 people into the workforce nationwide. A WRMSDC Supplier of the Year and national NMSDC winner, she was recently named a 2025 Ernst & Young National Finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year and Staffing Industries (SIA) 100 Most Influential Leaders. Her story is one of grit, growth, and impact—and a powerful reminder of what’s possible.
Parking: There is no on-site parking. Parking is available at Stak Parking, 1901 Franklin Avenue for a daily rate of $35 or $5.60 hourly. Additional nearby parking garages and metered street parking are also available within a short 2–5 minute walk along Franklin, Webster, and Harrison Streets.
Public Transportation: BART - Take BART to 19th Street Oakland Station. Exit toward Franklin Street and walk south. The venue is approximately a 3–5 minute walk from the station. Quick Directions: Head to 1736 Franklin Street in Downtown Oakland. The venue is located between 17th and 18th Streets, just one block from 19th Street BART.
We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible experience for all attendees. This event will be held at Oakstop, a centrally located venue in downtown Oakland with accessible entry and common areas.
If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, such as mobility access, seating considerations, or other support, please let us know in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements. To request accommodations or share dietary restrictions and food allergies, please contact: [email protected]
We kindly ask that requests be submitted at least 7–10 days prior to the event to ensure availability.
Elevators : Upon entering the building, guests will be greeted and escorted upstairs to the event space by a staff attendant.
Reserved Seating: Reserved seating will be available upon request.
