WEST CHESTER, PA — As the nation marks National Women’s Small Business Month, West Chester University (WCU) is hosting its annual Women’s Entrepreneurship Conference, spotlighting the vital contributions of women-owned businesses to the economy. This year’s event, themed “Empowerment Through Collaboration: Creating Space for Women Everywhere,” underscores the importance of fostering networking and growth opportunities for female entrepreneurs.
Held at the Sykes Student Union, 110 West Rosedale Avenue, on Friday, October 18, from 7:45 am to 1:30 pm, the conference is a collaborative effort between WCU’s Cottrell Entrepreneurial Center, SCORE of Chester and Delaware Counties, and the Chamber Alliance of Chester County. The event aims to create a supportive ecosystem for women in business by offering a platform where they can connect, learn, and grow. Registration is $45 and includes continental breakfast and lunch.
Keynote speaker Gina Schaefer, co-founder of Logan Hardware and author of “Recovery Hardware,” shared insights from her journey of transforming a single store into a flourishing enterprise of 13 locations. Her narrative of community empowerment and inclusive business practices provided attendees with inspiring strategies to overcome challenges and succeed.
Cherri Gregg, WHYY-FM news anchor and noted entrepreneur, concluded the event with a compelling address on utilizing storytelling to amplify marginalized voices and foster inclusive entrepreneurship.
Patricia Diggin, director of WCU’s Cottrell Entrepreneurial Center, emphasized the conference’s alignment with the university’s mission to support diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship. “This event reflects our commitment to ensuring women and underrepresented groups have the resources and support they need to thrive,” she stated.
The conference featured four breakout sessions focusing on key entrepreneurial skills: talent engagement, brand storytelling, stress management, and effective communication. These sessions offered practical advice and strategies from industry experts, providing invaluable guidance to attendees.
The significance of such events extends beyond the immediate benefits to participants. In the United States, women-owned businesses account for nearly 40% of all enterprises, generating $2.7 trillion annually and employing over 12 million individuals. Conferences like WCU’s serve as catalysts for continued growth, helping to bridge gender disparities in business and leadership.
SCORE’s involvement, as part of the nation’s largest network of volunteer business experts, further reinforces the support structure available to entrepreneurs. With over 11 million entrepreneurs benefiting from their mentoring and educational services, SCORE plays a crucial role in empowering small businesses nationwide.
As the conference draws to a close, the collective wisdom and shared experiences of the participants promise to drive future success and innovation. By fostering collaboration and providing a platform for empowerment, the WCU Women’s Entrepreneurship Conference not only celebrates the achievements of women entrepreneurs but also lays the groundwork for future endeavors.
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