ST PAUL

AGC TALKS

Thursday April 16th @ 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

About this Past Event

Members & Guests are Welcome!

REGISTER / SEATING LIMITED

Networking Arrive to meet new people have great conversations, and exchange business cards. Light Appetizers & a cash bar onsite.

Motivation Watch a dynamic motivational speaker sharing their Ted Talks style presentation designed to leave you inspired with an educational take away.

Share Mingle, share what you learned, set future appointments.

Location - Jameson's Tavern is located in the heart of West St. Paul. Steeped in history and community spirit, Jameson's Tavern invites you to join us in the Bella Room, a charming event space that embodies the essence of shared celebrations and cherished memories.


More Than a Business: How Culture and Community Drive Success

What does it means to lead a small business where culture and community are at the center of everything? While many measure success by growth or profit, the real foundation often comes from honoring traditions, building genuine relationships, and creating spaces where people feel they belong. When businesses stay rooted in their values and connected to the communities they serve, they become more than places of commercethey become places of connection, resilience, and lasting impact.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand how culture and identity can be powerful drivers of business success.
• Learn why community connection and trust are key long-term business strategies.
• Identify ways small businesses can turn cultural authenticity into a competitive advantage.
• Explore leadership approaches that prioritize relationships, purpose, and resilience.
• Gain insights on how businesses can become community anchors, not just places of commerce.

Speaker Bio:
Milissa Silva is the second-generation co-owner and CEO of El Burrito Mercado, a beloved cultural and culinary destination in St. Paul, Minnesota, founded in 1979. As CEO, Milissa serves as the visionary leader behind the continued growth and evolution of her familys legacy business. Before stepping into her role as partner-owner and CEO, Milissa built a diverse professional background in private food label manufacturing and distribution, Latino-focused promotional events, and corporate partnerships. She has collaborated with major brands including General Mills, SuperValu (Unified), Target Field, Target Center, and Target Corporation.

Today, she oversees all facets of El Burrito Mercados operations and leads its marketing, advertising, and strategic partnership initiatives. Under her leadership, the business has expanded into high-profile platforms such as the Minnesota State Fair and CHS Field with the St. Paul Saints.

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