Melissa Duff Brown is a visionary strategist and results-driven leader committed to empowering entrepreneurs, advancing innovation, and strengthening communities. As Director of Strategy for Joseph Business Services and Carver Cloud, and co-lead of the Operation Ten City Campaign, she designs and executes growth strategies that combine financial acumen, operational excellence, and cutting-edge AI solutions.

 

With over 20 years of diverse experience spanning accounting, banking, construction, electronics, and government, Melissa has built a reputation for turning complex challenges into actionable pathways for growth. She began her career as a small-business accountant and later served more than seven years in local government as a legislative aide and chief of staff. Her career reflects both depth and breadth, bringing together expertise in business consulting, technology adoption, and economic development.

 

Melissa is widely recognized for her leadership and impact. She has been honored as Illinois SBDC State Star, received the Shining Star Mentor Award, and was appointed Chair of multiple state-level committees focused on minority business development and operational excellence. Under her leadership at the Illinois SBDC-ITC-APEX at the Joseph Center, her team supported more than 3,800 entrepreneurs, created and retained 3,000 jobs, and facilitated over $1.1 billion in government contracts and $30 million in export sales.

 

A certified Six Sigma Green Belt, Adobe Education Trainer, Certified Business Development Advisor, and GrowthWheel Elite Advisor (ranking among the top 40 worldwide), Melissa is also a graduate of the Living Word School of Ministry. Her expertise in AI readiness, process automation, and financial optimization positions her as a trusted advisor to organizations navigating digital transformation.

 

Driven by integrity and excellence, Melissa is deeply committed to closing wealth gaps and uplifting underserved communities, ensuring that entrepreneurship and innovation remain engines of sustainable growth.