Once a year, entrepreneurs, speakers, faith leaders, and business professionals come together to connect, grow, and be inspired. Connecting Faith and Business (CFB) is a celebration of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and this year’s conference promises to shine brighter than ever.

In a time marked by economic uncertainty and spiritual fatigue, small business owners stand as beacons of light in their communities  illuminating paths of integrity, hope, and opportunity. The 2025 theme, “Illuminate,” invites entrepreneurs to explore how faith can inform vision, guide decisions, and inspire meaningful impact through business.

“Faith and business are not separate worlds they are deeply connected. When we lead with our values and let faith guide our decisions, our businesses become instruments of positive change,” said Hilda Kennedy, President of AmPac Business Capital and Founder of the Connecting Faith & Business Conference. “This year, we’re challenging every attendee to be a light to inspire others, to lead with courage, and to build communities grounded in hope and opportunity.”

Event Overview
17th Annual Connecting Faith & Business Conference
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Ontario Convention Center | Ontario, California

Hundreds of faith-based business owners and leaders from across Southern California will gather for a full day of insight, collaboration, and inspiration.

This year’s program will include interactive workshops, panel discussions, networking sessions, and the Be a Light Challenge, encouraging attendees to align their professional goals with purpose and service.

Register Today
Join us for this transformative day of faith and entrepreneurship.

Reserve your spot now: https://qrco.de/cfb25

Event Schedule Highlights

8:45 AM – 9:20 AM
Opening Worship & Inspiration
Featuring Pastor Marco Garcia, The Way World Outreach
Invocation: “Illuminate: Let Your Light Shine”

9:20 AM – 9:50 AM
Illumination Tip: Cybersecurity
Presented by Eddie Darmawan, D1 Defend

9:55 AM – 10:35 AM
Reflect & Plan: How Your Business Can Be Light
Interactive session moderated by Mary Barnett

11:15 AM – 12:05 PM
Panel 1 | Beyond the Bottom Line: Business as a Beacon
Panelists:
Celeste Etheridge, We Care Daycare
Donald J. Scheffler, Donald J. Scheffler Construction
Jim Ely, U.S. Bank
Moderator: Tom Steele

12:05 PM – 12:45 PM
Networking Luncheon & Awards Presentation

12:45 PM – 1:10 PM
Be a Light Challenge – Powered by The Barnabas Group
Moderated by Jeff Abbott & Michael Garcia

1:15 PM – 2:00 PM
Panel 2 | Lighting the Way for Your Team

Panelists:
Zachary Oliver, Dependable Breakroom Solutions
Matthew Theyer, Arrow Staffing
Chida Warren, Rebecca & Company, LLC
Mark Guirius, Homemasters International
Moderator: Vikita Poindexter

2:25 PM – 2:55 PM
Keynote Presentation: Illuminating Business Resilience
Speaker: Dr. Reggie Thomas

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Bright Side Social – Networking Reception
Featuring light bites and meaningful connections.

Program subject to change without notice.

Why Attend?
At Connecting Faith & Business 2025, attendees will:
Hear from entrepreneurs who lead with integrity and compassion.
Discover actionable strategies to integrate faith into leadership.
Engage with small business resource providers and community partners.
Network with like-minded professionals who believe business can be a force for good.

Whether you are a solo entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, or corporate professional, CFB 2025 offers the inspiration and tools to help your business shine.

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS BY Richard Sandoval