The conference will feature organizations that will offer technical assistance on various economic activities from the private and public sectors. Representatives from federal grant-making agencies also will take part in the conference.

Wednesday's keynote speaker will be Ernesto Sirolli, founder and chief executive officer of the Siroli Institute, a nonprofit, education and training organization for entrepreneurs. Richard Engelhardt, of the United Nationals Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, will speak at the closing luncheon on Thursday.