Matthew is a seasoned entrepreneur and visionary leader, currently serving as President of Elevate Entrepreneurial Systems and Director of the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute, where he also leads the New Black Wall Street Market. With a passion for nurturing entrepreneurial talent, Matthew's career showcases remarkable achievements in the field.As a teen, he founded a successful company that not only thrived but also empowered other young individuals to become entrepreneurs themselves. Following his early successes, Matthew co-founded a funeral home in Little Rock, Arkansas, which rapidly expanded to multiple locations within just two years. His entrepreneurial acumen shone through when he successfully exited this venture in 2002.Matthew's expertise in marketing and business development then earned him the position of Senior Vice President for a venture capital portfolio company in the death-care industry. He created the financial model and system used for mergers and acquisitions and led the pitch team in presenting international growth strategies. Under his guidance, the company achieved a remarkable 30% increase in revenue by implementing innovative practices, grassroots marketing strategies, and an aggressive sales program.Returning to Little Rock, he co-founded Elevate Entrepreneurship Systems with Maria Hampton. This initiative pioneered entrepreneurial ecosystems in the Southeastern United States, becoming a key resource for Entrepreneurial Support Organizations.Since 2015, Matthew has been instrumental in the growth and development of the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute (AEI), where he serves as Director of Entrepreneurship. Under his leadership, AEI has introduced innovative programs such as the HBCU Experience, Accelerators, Entrepreneur Fellowship, AEI Startup Factory, the New Black Wall Street Village project, and the New Black Wall Street Market, all of which have made a significant impact on fostering entrepreneurship and creating a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem in South Dekalb County, Georgia (Southeast Atlanta Metro).He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.Matthew's philosophy centers on the belief that youth should be exposed to real-world entrepreneurial experiences, allowing them to face challenges, seize opportunities, and learn from both successes and setbacks. These encounters not only nurture valuable business skills but also instill essential life skills and contribute to building a stronger workforce for the future.