Registration
Sessions Announced!
Entrepreneurship: The Real Deal!
You don’t have to start out as an expert in order to run a successful business. Many entrepreneurs run into roadblocks, yet they persevere on the path to success. Let these real life success stories inspire you to keep learning and growing.
Panelists:
Tracy Allen, The Oven Mitt
Shannon Cohen, Shannon Cohen, Inc.
Winsome Kirton, Pack Elephant
Paola Mendivil, El Granjero Mexican Grill
Moderator:
Judy Welch, Executive Director, WM
Michigan Women Forward
Social Media Marketing: Organic Posting, Paid Advertising, and the Influencers In-Between (Start-up)
Going viral is no longer the goal of social media; going viral to your core audience of qualified leads is what really matters to your brand. So how do you reach those people in an organic way, with paid targeting, and with influencers? More importantly, how do you track that success?
Presented by Chris Singel, Digital Director
8THIRTYFOUR Integrated Communications
Financial 5: What to Know When Starting Your Business (Start-up)
Don’t quit your day job…yet. Understand the importance of a business plan, cash flow for your business, your personal score, and how to properly manage your business account.
Presented by Tamara L. Jackson-Gatewood,
Assistant Vice President & Branch Manager, Huntington Bank
Brand & Storytelling (Growth)
Developing your brand is more than a logo. Learn how to develop your brand story, how that story looks and feels, and essential elements to brand including best practices no matter your place in your entrepreneurial journey.
Presented by Kristine Kletke, President
PMSI Marketing Group
Bringing Your Vision to Market (Growth)
We will discuss how to leverage different resources to take your idea to market. In this interactive Q&A session we will cover patents, prototyping, manufacturing and distribution.
Presented by Valerie Obenchain, CEO
Advanced Interactive Response System
Funding Your Business
Explore the various funding sources for start-ups and small business ventures – from crowdfunding and angel investing to traditional bank loans and microlending. Learn what funding resources are available to entrepreneurs.
Panelists:
Karen Benson, Business Development Officer, GROW
Latifa Bradwell, Lender Relations Specialist, U.S. Small Business Administration
Kelli Rose, VP Community Banking, Independent Bank
Moderator:
Julian Darden, Program Director, Michigan Women Forward Entrepreneur Institute
Connections Sponsor
Supporting Sponsor
