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”
"The Mindset that Keeps Founders Begging instead of Building”
This workshop is for Black founders who are tired of grinding for every dollar and still falling short of the vision they set out to build. In this session, we’ll expose the hidden mindsets and patterns that keep even the most passionate leaders stuck in cycles of scarcity and dependency. You’ll walk away with a clear picture of the biggest blockages standing between you and the organization you really want—so you can finally decide to remove them.
“From Vision to Blueprint: Drawing Your Three-Year Path”
Once you’ve identified what’s been holding you back, it’s time to turn possibility into a plan. In this session, we’ll guide you through the “Draw Your Future” exercise to create a vivid, visual roadmap for the next three years—centered on growing your household income. You’ll leave with a personal blueprint that captures your goals, the milestones along the way, and the actions needed to bring your vision to life.