Dr. Velma Trayham, the CEO of Thinkzilla Consulting Group, is a prominent figure in the realms of business and social entrepreneurship. Over the past decade, her journey has been a remarkable example of dedication and leadership in advocating for racial equity and expanding economic opportunities in underserved communities throughout the United States. Dr. Trayham’s narrative transcends the bounds of corporate achievement, epitomizing a profound journey of meaningful impact and social transformation.
A decade ago, Dr. Trayham embarked on a mission with Thinkzilla Consulting Group to address the inequalities plaguing diverse communities. Her approach was innovative and multifaceted, focusing on building and managing programs that promote economic opportunities through public and private partnerships. This effort was recognized at the highest level when she was honored by the White House, an accolade affirming her significant contributions to strengthening underserved communities nationwide.
Dr. Trayham’s insights into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs of color are profound. She notes that despite being the fastest-growing segment in the small business market, these entrepreneurs often encounter barriers like limited access to capital and entrepreneurial training, hindering their ability to secure multi-million dollar contracts. Under her leadership, Thinkzilla has been instrumental in bridging these gaps, partnering with government entities and corporations to enhance access and opportunities for these underserved businesses.
Thinkzilla’s global presence, with offices in Atlanta, Houston, Miami, Scottsdale, and Ontario, Canada, is a testament to its expansive vision. Based at Arizona State University’s Skysong Innovation Center, the firm specializes in supplier diversity development, capacity-building programs, and consulting to improve social, environmental, and economic outcomes. This strategic positioning highlights Dr. Trayham’s commitment to leveraging innovation for broader societal benefits.
President Joseph Biden’s awarding of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Trayham is a crowning achievement. This award, reserved for individuals who exhibit exceptional character, work ethic, and community dedication, is a fitting recognition of her efforts. Furthermore, her participation in CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion™ underscores her commitment to advancing workplace diversity and inclusion.
Over the past 11 years, Thinkzilla’s impact is quantifiable and impressive. The firm has supported over 8,000 entrepreneurs, spurring more than $400 million in economic impact. The proprietary DEI Scorecard and the IMPACT AZ 2025 initiative, developed in collaboration with notable partners like JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America, reflect Thinkzilla’s innovative approach to fostering diversity and economic growth.
Dr. Trayham’s vision extends beyond immediate results. She aims to triple Thinkzilla’s impact in the next five years, focusing on job creation, expanding partnerships, and bridging the racial wealth gap. This forward-thinking approach is crucial for sustainable economic development and social progress.
Thinkzilla Consulting Group’s identity as a black and woman-owned firm adds another layer to its mission. The firm engages with a wide range of clients, from financial service firms to Fortune 500 companies, aiding them in enhancing Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) efforts and delivering measurable success metrics. This multifaceted approach has positioned Thinkzilla as one of the country’s fastest-growing consulting firms, committed to developing programs that drive the economy forward.
Dr. Trayham’s personal accolades, including The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, highlight her extensive work in supporting women in diverse small businesses. Her efforts in launching a $500,000 scholarship fund to provide entrepreneurial training and mentorships have been pivotal in moving women out of poverty. Her leadership has enabled Thinkzilla to assist over 200 prominent organizations in expanding their DEI initiatives, driving growth and reaching new audiences.
Dr. Velma Trayham’s role as the founder and CEO of Thinkzilla Consulting and the founder of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy reflects her deep commitment to addressing systemic barriers and fostering empowered entrepreneurship among minority women. Her story is not just one of corporate success but of inspiring change and creating lasting impact in communities.
To learn more about Dr. Trayham’s work and Thinkzilla Consulting Group, visit www.thinkzillaconsulting.com and www.velmatrayham.com.
