Business Development in 2026 with Michelle Walker-Davis

In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis, exploring her journey and the significance of her title, "$850 Billion Boss." They discuss common myths about grants and the competitive nature of government contracts. The conversation delves into the role of AI and generative technology at Imperial Management Group, emphasizing the importance of documentation for engagements. Dr. Walker-Davis highlights financial readiness for business investments and addresses funding challenges faced by women and minorities.

Michelle Walker Davis is a serial entrepreneur, global speaker, author, and social justice advocate for women in business. Known as the “$850 Billion Dollar Boss,” she is a nationally recognized expert in grants, government contracting, and funding strategy. Michelle is the CEO and Founder of Imperial Management Group (IMG), the only AI generative tech development firm dedicated to helping minority-serving organizations and communities access public and private funding. Under her leadership, IMG has helped clients secure more than $50 million in grants and government contracts, building capacity, sustainability, and long-term economic impact. For more information https://www.imgconsulting.info/

(0:00) Introduction and Melinda Emerson's goals (1:22) Overview of Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis (2:36) The "$850 Billion Boss" title and myths about grants (6:03) Competition and management in government contracts (9:23) AI and generative tech at Imperial Management Group (11:24) Documentation for Imperial Management Group engagement (15:54) Financial readiness for business investment (17:55) Funding challenges for women and minorities (20:08) Mistakes by first-time funding applicants (22:12) Best business advice from Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis (22:36) Conclusion and thank you message