The DEC Network, a Dallas-based nonprofit that drives innovation and economic impact for entrepreneurs, held the grand opening ceremony April 11 for its renovated headquarters, The DEC Network @ Redbird, with more than 400 community members in attendance.
Sponsored by CLA and Charles Schwab, the Redbird Grand Opening Award recipients were recognized at the ribbon-cutting event.
The headquarters, located in Southern Dallas, is a hub for entrepreneurs, startups, and business leaders. DEC said the new facility will serve as a catalyst for economic growth and community development in the region.
The Grand Opening Award recipients are:
The DEC CEO Bill Chinn, Community Advocate Award recipient Nikki James, and The DEC senior director Tarsha Hearns
Nikki James, B.I.T.S., was recognized with the Community Advocate Award, given to an individual who is a passionate champion for the needs, interests, and well-being of the RedBird community.
The DEC CEO Bill Chinn, New RedBird Member Impactor Award recipient Yolanda Cotton, and The DEC senior director Tarsha Hearns
Yolanda Cotton, Abundant Healthcare Training Academy, received the New Redbird Member Impactor Award, given to an individual who, upon recently joining, brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a drive to make a positive impact.
The DEC CEO Bill Chinn, RedBird Champion Award recipient Dominque Hamilton and The DEC senior director Tarsha Hearns
Dominque Hamilton, Black Girl Magic Museum, was recognized with the RedBird Champion Award, given to either an alumnus or a current member, who engages actively in various aspects of the RedBird community.
The DEC CEO Bill Chinn, Shining Star Award recipient Curtis Corbin, and The DEC senior director Tarsha Hearns
Curtis Corbins, Southern Dallas Link, was awarded the Shining Star Award as an exemplary non-profit member within the RedBird community, radiating positivity, leadership, and excellence in all they do.
The DEC CEO Bill Chinn, RedBird Mentor Award recipient Dr. Deandrea Fleming, and The DEC senior director Tarsha Hearns
Dr. Deandrea Fleming, Mark of Resilience, received the RedBird Mentor Award, which recognizes an individual or group who guides and facilitates development, offering both mentorship and resources to help RedBird members navigate their path to success.
$2.4 million RedBird Innovation Center
The $2.4 million RedBird Innovation Center has more than 20,000 square feet with 120 co-working/hot desks, 48 dedicated desks, 19 dedicated offices, and office suites. It was designed by Page Southerland Page with construction by K2.
Furnishings throughout the center were donated by WilsonBauhaus, Reveles Clinical, and Veritex Bank. Additional RedBird donors include Peter Brodsky, Hirsch Foundation, Texas Capital Bank, and Vari Desk.
The center said it also offers area entrepreneurs and creatives a space to create content in its two podcasting rooms, along with business accelerator programs for all stages of business with cash prizes up to $20,000.
The center will also provide a capital access resource area to connect founders to funding information and opportunities.
GALLERY
All photos provided by The DEC Network
Emcee Lady Jade
Emcee Lady Jade and Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins
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