Valley Focus: Central Valley Urban Institute Set To Launch

Collaboration is key when it comes to finding solutions to local problems.

Eric Payne is setting out to find more support for underserved communities. He is the founder of Central Valley Urban Institute. The organization's goal is to build economic and social mobility for low-income communities.

Micro businesses will be showcased at the first ever Central Valley Urban Institute Conference. The conference includes a panel discussion with Ashley Swearingen, CEO of Central Valley Community Foundation, Brian Angus, CEO of Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission, Carole Goldsmith President of Fresno City College, Tracewell Hanrahan, Deputy Executive Director of Fresno Housing Authority and Tiffany Price from Kapor Center for Social Impact.

Payne and local business owner, Desirae Washington were guests on Valley Focus with Margot Kim. They discussed the importance of having support from financial institutions and the impact it could have on the community.

The conference will be held Thursday, January 18, 2018, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Bitwise Industries in Downtown Fresno. For more information, you can all (559) 242-0641. You can also find the organization on Facebook.