iiBIG Overview

The International Institute for Business Information & Growth (iiBIG) is a boutique convening and business development platform headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia. Since 2006, we have brought together leaders from business, finance, government, and academia to exchange ideas, foster innovation, and accelerate growth across key sectors of the economy. 

What began as a bold vision to create a space “where ideas and investments meet” has evolved into a respected hub for executive‑level summits, strategic partnerships, and outcome‑driven collaboration. 

20 Years of Legacy: Our Story

Founded in 2006, iiBIG was created with a clear purpose: to convene senior decision-makers who influence markets, capital flows, and public policy. For almost 20 years, iiBIG’s flagship convening, including the Education Finance & Student Loans Symposium and the Healthcare Investment & M&A Summit, have served as trusted platforms where leaders engage in high-level dialogue and advance informed decision-making.

In January 2025, iiBIG entered a new chapter under the leadership of President Juliana Araujo, marking a period of strategic renewal and expansion. Today, iiBIG is evolving from a convening organization into an integrated platform that connects policy, investment, and innovation.

Building on its strong foundation in education and healthcare, iiBIG now addresses some of the most pressing structural challenges of our time, including housing affordability, public-private partnerships, and inclusive economic growth. Through curated summits, targeted forums, and a growing programmatic arm, iiBIG not only convenes leaders but also helps translate dialogue into practical solutions, partnerships, and measurable impact.

At its core, iiBIG is where cross-sector leaders come together to shape the systems that define long-term growth and opportunity.

Mission

At its core, iiBIG is a connector and catalyst in the business world, a trusted platform where people, ideas, and resources come together to create growth opportunities. Operating at the intersection of knowledge, collaboration, and action, iiBIG empowers leaders and organizations to turn insight into impact through:

Knowledge Exchange

Advancing thought leadership and insight-sharing through high-level summits, forums, and educational events that inform strategy and inspire innovation.

Strategic Partnerships

Building cross-sector relationships that foster collaboration, attract investment, and drive measurable outcomes across industries.

Best Practices

Showcasing effective models of business success and sustainability to guide decision-makers toward smarter, more resilient growth.

Through this mission, iiBIG continues to fulfill its founding purpose: to be the meeting point where ideas transform into opportunities, and where collaboration powers lasting progress.

Vision

iiBIG’s vision to be the premier catalyst where knowledge, partnerships, and investment converge to drive sustainable progress is aspirational, leadership-oriented, and impact-driven. It positions the organization as an active force shaping the future of business, not merely as a convener, but as a trusted hub where transformative ideas and collaborations begin.

By operating at the intersection of knowledge, partnerships, and investment, iiBIG serves as a strategic connector, bridging thought leaders, innovators, and investors. This positioning highlights both influence and credibility, emphasizing the organization’s pivotal role in accelerating innovation and progress across sectors.

The emphasis on driving sustainable progress demonstrates a results-focused approach. iiBIG’s mission is not just about dialogue. It’s about creating measurable impact, ensuring longevity, and achieving meaningful, real-world results. By prioritizing sustainability, the organization attracts investors, corporations, and policy-focused audiences who value ethical, long-term growth.

Ultimately, iiBIG aspires to be the premier hub where leaders, innovators, and investors converge to exchange knowledge, forge strategic partnerships, and drive sustainable progress.

Core Values

Collaboration

We bring together leaders, investors, and innovators to co-create solutions. By connecting diverse perspectives, iiBIG unlocks opportunities, accelerates growth, and fosters a community-driven, network-oriented approach.

Excellence

We deliver high-quality experiences, insights, and results across all programs and partnerships. Our commitment to top-tier standards and thought leadership ensures exceptional value for our partners and stakeholders.

Innovation

We embrace new ideas, models, and approaches that redefine business growth. By staying ahead of trends and fostering creative collaboration, iiBIG remains dynamic, forward-thinking, and at the forefront of investment and business innovation.

Integrity

We act with transparency, accountability, and respect. By upholding ethical standards and honoring our commitments, iiBIG builds trust and is recognized as a principled, reliable partner.

Impact

We focus on measurable results and purpose-driven outcomes. Our initiatives create tangible business growth, investment opportunities, and social value, driving sustainable, long-term change.

Our Team

Bringing together expertise, leadership and industry insight.

Juliana Araujo

President

Hank Woji

VP, Business Development

Bryant Willis

Head of IT

Melissa Simmonds

Head of Communications

Mark Lester Darantinao

Administrative Assistant

Victor Johnson

Communications Assistant