Building Businesses That Win Contracts with Deonna Barnett EP 9

In this inspiring episode of The Business of Belonging, host Zulene Adams, CEO and co-founder of Z Promotions, sits down with Deonna Barnett, CEO and Director of Consulting at Aventi Enterprises. Deonna shares her entrepreneurial journey from college ventures to leading a successful consulting firm that helps small and micro businesses secure government and corporate contracts. Together, they discuss the importance of strategic planning, embracing technology, and how organizations like NAWBO Columbus empower women business owners to scale with confidence and clarity. Key Points Entrepreneurial Roots: Deonna’s first taste of business came from creating a student-led magazine at The Ohio State University, which ignited her passion for entrepreneurship and problem-solving. Family Influence: Growing up with entrepreneurial parents, she learned early lessons in creativity, independence, and work-life balance. Leadership and NAWBO Impact: Through her roles in NAWBO Columbus, including VP of Programming and Public Policy, Deonna gained valuable leadership experience and forged strong community connections that helped grow Aventi Enterprises. Empowering Microbusinesses: Deonna advocates for microbusinesses to explore government and corporate contracting opportunities, emphasizing that even small teams can win substantial contracts with the right strategy. Strategic Planning Essentials: Deonna explains how helpful it is to conduct market research annually and review strategic plans quarterly to stay aligned with shifting trends, another part of her business strategy and support services.  Success Stories: Aventi’s strategic guidance helped clients secure funding and contracts, including one that evolved from a side hustle into a million-dollar company within five years. Looking Ahead: Aventi is developing a SaaS platform to help clients streamline their contracting processes and is embracing AI and technology as key growth drivers. Deonna’s story is a powerful example of how vision, strategy, and community can turn small beginnings into sustainable success, and how women entrepreneurs can thrive by embracing innovation and connection.