Our May 5 Fish Tank networking event brought together local entrepreneurs, the Highland DDA, Oakland Thrive staff, and resource partners for peer learning, collaboration, and real-time problem solving. The Highland DDA shared updates on local grants, infrastructure improvements, sidewalk planning initiatives, and future water access developments within the community.
Local businesses also had the opportunity to share their stories and receive constructive feedback. Oakland Thrive Small Business Services Consultant Joyce Kreger provided attendees with practical insight on Google Business Profiles, SEO strategies, and effective keyword usage to strengthen online visibility.
Participating businesses receiving collaborative feedback and strategic recommendations included wellness-focused small businesses Earth-N-Soul, Wildling Herbal Apothecary, and Micah Healing. Jen Tackett of Woosah United, a community-centered collective created to support holistic businesses, connected with these businesses, creating opportunities for future collaboration and alignment. The Fish Tank book swap also reinforced peer learning and community engagement, encouraging continued knowledge sharing among participants.
Overall, the session demonstrated the strength of the Fish Tank model by creating a supportive environment where entrepreneurs could openly discuss challenges, receive immediate feedback from peers and professionals, and connect with relevant Oakland Thrive resources. The Highland business community showed strong engagement, reflecting the type of relationship-driven ecosystem building that supports long-term small business success.
