Craig Moore II
Craig Moore II is an ecosystem builder, strategist, and the Founder of Black Excellence Inc., a nonprofit organization committed to increasing household income and economic mobility in the Black community. With over 15 years of experience in Kansas City’s entrepreneurial and civic ecosystem, Craig leads initiatives like the Ascend Cohort and the Proximity Platform, which focus on leadership development, community engagement, and data-driven impact. He also serves as the Entrepreneur Experience Manager at Endeavor Heartland, supporting high-growth founders across the Midwest.
Craig & Don’s Bio
Don Carter
Don Carter is a leadership coach, facilitator, and trusted advisor to nonprofit and corporate leaders. He brings a deep background in spiritual formation, personal clarity, and executive development. As a key architect and facilitator of the Ascend Cohort, Don helps participants root their leadership in lived experience, navigate complex decisions, and build sustainable rhythms for growth. His approach blends introspection with action, empowering leaders to align their values with the work they lead.
Craig & Don’s Session
“Start with Self: Your Story, Your Vision” & “From Idea to Impact: Building with Intention”
"Start with Self: Your Story, Your Vision”
Every nonprofit begins with a story. In this session, we focus on the first “S” — Self — and explore how your personal journey shapes the work you lead. You will reflect on what you truly want for your life, your leadership, and your legacy. This is a space to reconnect with your “why,” recognize how your nonprofit reflects your lived experiences, and begin shaping a 3-year vision rooted in purpose and clarity.
“From Idea to Impact: Building with Intention”
You have a vision, but turning it into a real solution requires clarity and structure. In this session, we will walk through the final two “S’s” — Systems and Sustainability — using a simple 4-step ideation process. You will learn how to clearly define the problem your nonprofit is solving, test your assumptions, and identify the people and resources you need to move forward. This session will help you shift from reacting to planning with intention.