Melinda F. Emerson is bringing a game-changing opportunity to senior women leaders across North America. The renowned business expert announced The Next ACT CEO Summit, a three-day virtual conference. The event takes place January 22-24, 2026, and targets women age 45 and older.
The summit focuses on a unique path to business ownership through acquisition. This means buying an existing business or franchise rather than starting from scratch. Emerson has assembled top experts in business and franchising to guide attendees through every step of the process.
America’s Top Small Business Expert Creates New Wealth Path
Emerson founded SmallBizLadyUniversity.com nearly 20 years ago. She has spent two decades delivering practical education to aspiring business owners. Her expertise has earned her recognition as America’s No. 1 Small Business Expert.
The entrepreneur serves as a speaker for the U.S. State Department. She also hosts a popular podcast and authored the bestselling book “Fix Your Business: 90-Day Plan to Get Your Life Back and Reduce Chaos in Your Business.” Her extensive experience makes her uniquely qualified to guide women into business ownership.
Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition for Senior Women Leaders
The Next ACT CEO Summit addresses a growing trend among experienced professional women. Many are seeking alternatives to traditional corporate roles. They want to own assets that generate wealth, not just earn another paycheck.
“Women with decades of leadership experience are decisive and creditworthy. They don’t need another job in corporate America—they need a clear path to wealth creation through entrepreneurship,” Emerson explains. The conference provides that roadmap through a focused, practical approach.
The program emphasizes confidence from day one of ownership. Attendees will learn about financing options, legal requirements, technology systems, and essential services. Every aspect covers what women need to step into business ownership successfully.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time for Women Business Owners
Emerson shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE that timing is crucial for this initiative. More experienced women are actively searching for their next chapter beyond corporate life. They bring valuable skills and leadership experience to the entrepreneurship table.
“They want to own assets, not a job. They want systems, teams, and revenue that they can scale with their business skills. And they don’t have time to build a business from scratch,” Emerson said. Buying an existing business solves these challenges perfectly.
The acquisition approach offers immediate advantages over starting fresh. Established businesses come with existing customers, revenue streams, and proven systems. Women can leverage their decades of experience right away without the startup struggle.
Comprehensive Business Acquisition Training Program
The three-day virtual summit covers everything attendees need to make informed decisions. The program starts with choosing between independent business acquisition and franchise ownership. Participants will evaluate options based on their budget, available time, and skill sets.
Sessions will teach attendees how to source and evaluate real business listings. They’ll learn to work with brokers, franchise consultants, and online marketplaces. Red-flag checklists help identify potential problems before making commitments.
Financial literacy forms a cornerstone of the training. Participants will navigate various financing options including SBA loans and seller financing. They’ll also learn about franchise lenders, CDFIs, and ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups). The program shows how to assemble lender-ready packages that get approved.
Due Diligence and Technology for New Business Owners
The summit dedicates significant time to due diligence processes. Attendees will learn to evaluate business operations, staff, and financial records thoroughly. This critical skill protects buyers from costly mistakes and hidden problems.
Technology readiness receives special attention during the conference. Participants will discover how to build an ownership-ready tech stack. Training covers CRM systems, e-signature tools, invoicing software, and payroll platforms. These tools help new owners manage their businesses efficiently from day one.
Legal and insurance fundamentals round out the educational program. Understanding these basics protects business owners and ensures compliance. The training demystifies complex topics and makes them accessible to everyone.
Building Community and Creating Opportunities
The summit aims to attract 350 qualified attendees from across the United States and Canada. This carefully curated group will form a powerful network of like-minded women. The connections made during the event can lead to partnerships and ongoing support.
“This event will demystify entrepreneurship through acquisition and provide the tools, partners, experts, and community to make ownership a reality,” Emerson states. The summit goes beyond education to provide vetted partners and practical resources.
Organizers have designed the program to meet this pivotal moment for women leaders. It provides clear direction and actionable strategies for wealth creation. The virtual format makes participation convenient regardless of location. Interested parties can find sponsorship opportunities, event details, and registration at smallbizladyuniversity.com/nextactceosummit/.
