Today we’d like to introduce you to Savon Gibson Sr.
Hi Savon, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As a thriving entrepreneur, seasoned financial planner, and dynamic public speaker, with a stellar academic background, unwavering dedication, and a passion for financial empowerment, Savon is a driving force in Cincinnati, Ohio’s quest for improved financial literacy, especially in its economically challenged communities. At the heart of Savon’s innovative approach are workshops that cover a spectrum of financial topics. From creating generational wealth through smart investments to nurturing entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency, these initiatives are transformative. They’re designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to take control of their financial destinies. These sessions have touched the lives of over 600 families and teens, imparting invaluable financial wisdom. Savon’s impact extends beyond workshops. He’s a true partner in education, collaborating with institutions such as The University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, Cincinnati Job Corps, and Cincinnati Public Schools. Through these alliances, he’s brought financial workshops to more than 200 students in a school setting, nurturing financial literacy from a young age.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to where I am today has certainly not been without its challenges. While my passion for financial empowerment and community service has remained unwavering, there have been obstacles that required resilience and adaptability. One of the most significant struggles was navigating the complexities of starting and growing a business. Founding **Empire Consulting/Gibson Financial Planning** in 2014 was a bold step, and as an entrepreneur, I faced many of the typical challenges—building a client base, managing cash flow, and gaining recognition in a competitive industry.
Additionally, pursuing my goal of financial planning in an industry where African Americans represent only 2% nationally came with its own unique set of challenges. I had to continuously work to establish credibility and expertise in a field where I wasn’t widely represented. However, through persistence and a commitment to lifelong learning, I completed coursework at Xavier University towards a Financial Planning certification and continued to hone my skills.
Another challenge I encountered was finding ways to effectively reach economically underserved communities with financial literacy. I realized that, in many cases, access to financial education was a significant barrier. But this challenge led to opportunities for growth, such as my partnerships with local organizations like Xavier’s Trio Program the University of Cincinnati, and the Hamilton County Public Library, where I began hosting workshops and providing financial education to over 800 families and teens. These partnerships not only allowed me to give back but also highlighted the importance of collaboration in overcoming challenges.
Despite these struggles, the journey has been deeply rewarding. Each obstacle has been an opportunity for growth, and I’ve learned invaluable lessons about persistence, resilience, and the power of community. My experience has fueled my commitment to helping others overcome their financial challenges and succeed.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in financial planning, small business consulting, and community empowerment, with a focus on educating underserved populations about financial literacy. As the owner of Empire Consulting/Gibson Financial Planning, my mission is to help individuals and families take control of their financial futures. I provide personalized financial strategies, ranging from wealth building and retirement planning to investment education and debt management. Additionally, I work closely with small businesses, helping them structure their operations, optimize finances, and achieve long-term growth.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the impact my financial literacy workshops have had on the community. Ultimately, my work is not just about numbers—it’s about helping people build a better life for themselves and their families. I’m most proud of the lasting relationships I’ve built with clients and the positive changes I’ve seen in their financial well-being. Whether it’s helping someone save for their child’s education or guiding a small business owner through a crucial growth phase, my goal is to provide them with the tools and confidence they need to succeed.
What sets me apart from others is my commitment to serving those who are often overlooked in traditional financial planning. I’m deeply invested in breaking down the barriers that prevent economically disadvantaged communities from accessing financial resources and education. I’m also known for my ability to engage and inspire audiences. Whether through my workshops, speaking engagements, or one-on-one mentorship, I focus on making complex financial concepts relatable and actionable for people from all walks of life.
Any big plans?
At Gibson Financial Planning, we are always looking for ways to make a lasting impact, not just on individuals but on the community as a whole. Last year, we hosted the inaugural **Finance Fair**, which was a transformative event. With a modest budget, we brought together over 100 small business owners, entrepreneurs, and aspiring professionals, creating an environment for financial education and critical networking. The event was such a success that it inspired a series of follow-up workshops throughout the year, allowing us to continue the momentum and provide ongoing support to participants.
For Finance Fair ‘25, we’re scaling up. Our goal is to attract 500 participants, expand the range of financial experts available, and elevate the overall experience. We’re adding more vendors, creating dedicated spaces for in-depth conversations, and even incorporating food trucks and happy hour networking to encourage a relaxed yet professional atmosphere. The event falls shortly after Financial Literacy Month, which is significant for us as it reinforces the importance of financial education for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
Looking ahead, our vision is to make the Finance Fair an annual cornerstone event, not just for Cincinnati but potentially expanding its reach across the region. We want this to be a hub where small business owners feel empowered with the tools and connections they need to thrive. Beyond the Fair, we’re also planning more tailored workshops, mentorship programs, and collaborations with organizations that align with our mission to build financial literacy and generational wealth in underserved communities.
The big changes we’re excited about include leveraging technology to reach even more people, integrating digital platforms to connect attendees with financial resources year-round, and forming strategic partnerships to ensure the event continues to grow and evolve. Our plans for the future are driven by a deep commitment to empowering others, and I’m excited to see how Finance Fair and our other initiatives will continue to transform lives.
Pricing:
- www.savongibsonsr.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.savongibsonsr.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gibson_financial/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GibsonFinancialPlanning/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/savongibson/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/GibsonPlanning
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gibsonfinancialplanning
