Connecticut”™s first- ever statewide conference aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs will be held at UConn Stamford Friday, Sept. 20, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
The Connecticut Celebrates Women Entrepreneurs Conference includes free educational workshops by industry experts on topics that include funding for a business; balancing the demands of work and personal life; and locating the resources for entrepreneurs available from the state.
“Women entrepreneurs often face unique challenges in growing their business,” said UConn Vice President of Economic Development Mary Holz-Clause. “This conference will provide a forum for discussion, support and identifying resources for helping women-owned businesses thrive in Connecticut.”
Catherine Smith, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, is also scheduled to attend, along with representatives from other agencies like the Small Business Development Center and Connecticut Innovations.
Agency leaders will help conference attendees learn what resources the state offers them to succeed in business.
“Women entrepreneurs are vitally important to the economy in the state of Connecticut, and this gathering of successful women gives us an opportunity to network and celebrate our success,” said event co-chair Valarie Gelb, CEO and founder of Manhattan-based digital communication and consulting firm The Barn Yard Group.
Businesswomen from across the state are expected, including Cindi Bigelow, president and CEO of Bigelow Tea.