In 1997, there were fewer than 5.5 million women-owned businesses in the United States. This year, that number is expected to top 8 million.
In an effort to stimulate women business ownership and foster relationships that build a state of opportunity for female entrepreneurs, Women Inspiring Women, the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development and Public Service of New Hampshire will be joining together to present the 2nd Annual NH Conference for Women being on Friday, November 18, 2011, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel/Center of NH, 700 Elm Street in Manchester.
According to Leslie Sturgeon, award-winning entrepreneur and founder of Women Inspiring Women, “this will not only be a day of inspiration, education and transformation but filled with fun surprises, exhibitors, door prizes and great networking as well.”
The day will include five motivational sessions and begin with “Back Stage at Life Experience: Five Lessons Learned” by Kathleen Peterson of PowerHouse Consulting. Other sessions include “Creating Health and Wealth From the Inside Out” presented by Kathleen Burns Kingsbury, author and President of KBK Wealth Connection, “Leadership is the Difference” by Laurie-Ann Murabito, author and President of LA & Associates, “Just Breathe: The Quest for a Little Piece of Mind . . . and Chocolate” by motivational humorist Lesley Smith and “It’s Not About the Hike” with authors Nancy Sporborg and Pat Piper.
“There is perhaps no better time to think about creating a business in the state of New Hampshire and I know that this conference will provide attendees with the motivation and inspiration they need to take the first step forward,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Communications & Legislative Director Steve Boucher. “And for those women who’ve already taken the leap of faith and are operating their own companies, what better way to stay engaged, gain new tips and meet with potential partners and customers?”
“Public Service of New Hampshire welcomes the opportunity to once again collaborate on this tremendous event,” added Public Service of New Hampshire Economic & Community Development Manager Pat McDermott. “We salute the women who are adding to the state’s economic vitality and are pleased to be part of this great day of information sharing and networking.”
As a result of generous contributions from the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Public Service of New Hampshire and Exeter Health Resources, the registration price is only $39 and includes lunch. Centrix Bank and NH Magazine are also corporate partners. Reservations are needed and space is limited. Contact Women Inspiring Women at (603) 744-0400 or visit www.wiwnh.com for more information and to register. Exhibition space is still available as well.
Women Inspiring Women was founded in 2007 in the Lakes Region by Sturgeon to give women of all ages and backgrounds an opportunity to get together at educational, fun and inspirational events on a monthly basis. Since that time the organization has expanded to Concord, Nashua, Manchester, Bedford and the Seacoast, hosts bi-weekly events, and quickly become the state’s largest organization for women’s empowerment, personal development and networking.
With American Express reporting that the number of businesses owned by women in New Hampshire has grown by 37.2 percent in the last 14 years, there is no better time to be a female entrepreneur in the Granite State.