I'm Certified, Now What?
2025-06-18 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
June 18, 2025 | 1pm to 2pm EST | Virtual Session

WBENC Certification can be an amazing tool to help open doors and uncover business opportunities to take you from where you are to where you want to be. To fully unlock the extensive benefits of the WBENC network, we highly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities and resources available to you – both locally and nationally. Attend this session to learn more about the core components of our network and the steps you can take today to make the most out of your certification. Participation is recommended for all newly certified and recertified WBEs, as well as WBEs who wants to stay up to date on what’s happening in the network.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.

WBENC National Conference
2025-06-23 - 2025-06-26
Mark your calendars! Join us in New Orleans, LA, from June 23-26, 2025, for the 2025 WBENC National Conference!
At the 2025 WBENC National Conference, where thousands gather to do business, all united by a shared drive to uplift and elevate women-owned and small businesses, connections become collaborations, insights turn into innovations, and big dreams meet limitless possibilities. hashtag#WBENCConf
Register Now!

Why and How to Get Certified
2025-07-02 13:00 - 14:00
Why and How to Get Certified
July 2nd, 2025 | 1pm EST | Virtual Session

If you’re a 51% women-owned or operated company, you’re just a few steps away from becoming a WBENC-Certified women’s business enterprise (WBE)!
At WBEC Metro NY & Greater DMV, fueling local economic growth through the empowerment of women business owners is our primary mission. We provide WBENC certification—the gold standard in diversity certification—at the regional level and serve as an advocate for certified women-owned businesses by providing our WBEs with resources, programming, network opportunities, and recognition.
Do you want access to supplier diversity and procurement opportunities, networking events with like-minded women entrepreneurs, leadership development programs, and exclusive resources to grow and scale your business?
Join us for a 1-hour webinar and learn why the benefits of Certification go far beyond a Certification seal and the steps you can take to start your Certification process right away.
In this session, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of WBENC Certification, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, and local opportunities within your region and the larger ecosystem.
You’ll also have the opportunity to address your specific questions with our WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV staff.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council’s (WBENC) mission is to fuel economic growth globally by identifying, certifying, and facilitating the development of women-owned businesses. They work to accomplish this by focusing on their CORE platform — Certification, Opportunities, Resources, and Engagement.

Lunch With the Experts
2025-07-08 12:00 - 13:00
Lunch with the Experts
Tuesday, July 8th 2025
12pm to 1pm EST | Virtual Session

Looking to gain valuable insights into how corporations collaborate with women entrepreneurs? Take a break from your busy schedule and join us for the Lunch with Experts (LWE) program! This twice-a-month session is designed specifically for Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) to pause their everyday business responsibilities and focus on growth.
During engaging, one-hour interactive presentations led by corporate members and industry experts, participants will explore strategies for success, sharpen their business skills, and stay ahead in their industries. These sessions also provide an excellent opportunity to expand your network—connecting not only with corporate professionals but with fellow WBEs.
Make sure to mark your calendar and save the date!
More details to come soon.
Don’t miss this empowering opportunity to learn, grow, and connect.

Sustainability Accelerator Module 2 Workshop 1
2025-07-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 2 — Checking Your Sustainability Compass
Workshop 1 – Reinforce Materiality, Stakeholder Identification Engagement and Global Frameworks

July 8th, 2025 | 1pm to 3pm EST | Virtual
Sustainability is a business imperative for corporate partners.
Come join WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV and program partners, The Fehlig Group, for the 2024 Sustainability Accelerator, an accessible and actionable program to help you understand the basics and application of sustainability.
Consisting of three modules running over nine months, it includes four interactive Sessions and six optional drop-in clinics per module to provide expert advice on the unique needs of your business as you embed sustainability into your operation.
MODULE 2: CHECKING YOUR SUSTAINABILITY COMPASS
Showcase the material issues where you have the greatest impact, engage your stakeholders and align with global frameworks.
Identify the foundational policies, practices and systems to have or put in place for sustainable best practice.
Gain the knowledge to create effective policies in critical areas of ethics and transparency, environmental stewardship and diversity, equity and inclusion.
Learn valuable ways of thinking and tools to effectively organize information and measure sustainable performance
In Module 2: Session 1, we will reinforce the language, tools and resources learned in Module 1 and dive deeper into how understanding stakeholders can help WBEs develop and grow their business.
To get the complete program experience, it is strongly recommended that you attend all sessions of Module 2. See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)
Click to register!

Lunch with the Experts: The CEO Mindset- Shifting from Solopreneur to Business Leader
2025-07-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Lunch with the Experts

Tuesday, July 15th, 2025
12:00pm–1:00pm ET
Are you ready to step into your full potential as a business leader and leave behind the overwhelm of doing it all alone? The CEO Mindset is a transformational program designed for entrepreneurs who are ready to scale their businesses, achieve sustainable growth, and unlock long-term success by evolving from a solopreneur into a true strategic leader.
This program focuses on five pivotal mindset and leadership shifts that are essential for building a scalable, resilient, and thriving business:

From Operator to Visionary – Define a compelling long-term vision and core values that will become the foundation for every decision you make. Step away from the day-to-day grind and become the driver of your business’s future.
From Task-Doer to Strategic Leader – Master the art of delegation, empower your team, and focus on leading with intention so your energy is directed toward growth—not just upkeep.
From Hustle to Scalable Systems – Establish streamlined processes, automate repetitive tasks, and build operational efficiency that supports consistent growth, even when you’re not in the room.
From Income-Focused to Profit-Focused – Shift your focus from short-term revenue to a financial strategy that emphasizes profitability, sustainability, and long-lasting success.
From Lone Wolf to Leadership Culture – Learn how to attract, build, and nurture a high-performing team that shares your vision and drives the business forward alongside you.

This program is more than just skill-building; it’s a mindset shift that empowers you to transition from simply running your business to leading it. Through expert guidance, actionable strategies, and collaborative learning opportunities, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to foster a scalable, inclusive, and thriving business ecosystem.
Join The CEO Mindset and transform how you approach leadership, growth, and success in your entrepreneurial journey. It’s time to trade hustle for strategy, isolation for collaboration, and short-term wins for sustainable growth.
Your growth starts here. Are you ready to lead?

Dr. Jennifer Jones Bryant is a renowned leadership development expert, executive coach, and accomplished author dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations. She is the Executive Founder of Reaching From Within and Empowerment Journey LLC, as well as President and CEO of Step Into Leadership Greatness Foundation Inc. (501(c)(3)). With over 30 years of experience, including a distinguished 31-year federal government career rising to Executive Director and senior leadership roles at a Fortune 100 company, Dr. Bryant is celebrated for driving organizational growth, championing employee engagement, and fostering transformational leadership. She is a recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and holds multiple advanced degrees and certifications.
Register Now!

WBEC Metro NY SAGE Advice Day 1
2025-07-23 08:00 - 16:30, 2025-09-03 08:00 - 16:30 | Virtual
WBEC Metro NY SAGE Advice Day 1

SAGE Advice is a collaborative partnership between Capital One and WBEC Greater DMV and Metro NY, established to develop and enable small business owners to grow through customized sessions delivered by successful women business owners and Capital One associates.
Through six, two-day in-person and virtual sessions held over six months, participants will dive deep into their business, their strategies, and their goals.
For more information about this program, please visit our website: wbecnydmv.org/programs/sage-advice

WBEC Metro NY SAGE Advice Day 2
2025-07-24 08:00 - 16:30, 2025-09-04 08:00 - 16:30 | Virtual
WBEC Metro NY SAGE Advice Day 2

SAGE Advice is a collaborative partnership between Capital One and WBEC Greater DMV and Metro NY, established to develop and enable small business owners to grow through customized sessions delivered by successful women business owners and Capital One associates.
Through six, two-day in-person and virtual sessions held over six months, participants will dive deep into their business, their strategies, and their goals.
For more information about this program,
Please visit our website: wbecnydmv.org/programs/sage-advice

Sustainability Accelerator Module 2 Workshop 2
2025-07-29 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 2 — Checking Your Sustainability Compass
Workshop 2 – Foundation: Policies, Practices and Systems

July 29th, 2025 | 1pm to 3pm EST | Virtual
Sustainability is a business imperative for corporate partners.
Come join WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV and program partners, The Fehlig Group, for the 2024 Sustainability Accelerator, an accessible and actionable program to help you understand the basics and application of sustainability.
Consisting of three modules running over nine months, it includes four interactive Sessions and six optional drop-in clinics per module to provide expert advice on the unique needs of your business as you embed sustainability into your operation.
MODULE 2: CHECKING YOUR SUSTAINABILITY COMPASS
Showcase the material issues where you have the greatest impact, engage your stakeholders and align with global frameworks.
Identify the foundational policies, practices and systems to have or put in place for sustainable best practice.
Gain the knowledge to create effective policies in critical areas of ethics and transparency, environmental stewardship and diversity, equity and inclusion.
Learn valuable ways of thinking and tools to effectively organize information and measure sustainable performance.
In Module 2: Session 2, you will understand the foundational policies, practices and systems to have/put in place for sustainable best practice.
To get the complete program experience, it is strongly recommended that you attend all sessions of Module 2. See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)
Click to register!

I'm Certified, Now What?
2025-07-31 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Maximizing Your WBENC Certification
July 31st, 2025 | 1pm to 2pm EST | Virtual Session

WBENC Certification can be an amazing tool to help open doors and uncover business opportunities to take you from where you are to where you want to be. To fully unlock the extensive benefits of the WBENC network, we highly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities and resources available to you – both locally and nationally. Attend this session to learn more about the core components of our network and the steps you can take today to make the most out of your certification. Participation is recommended for all newly certified and recertified WBEs, as well as WBEs who wants to stay up to date on what’s happening in the network.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.

3 Ways to Avoid a Cyber Attack That Could Shut Down Your Business
2025-08-07 10:00 - 11:00
Thursday August 7, 2025
10:00am – 11:00am ET
Imagine waking up to find your data compromised, your clients losing trust, and your revenue at risk. It’s not just a worst-case scenario—it’s happening every day.
Join us for a powerful and practical conversation designed to help women entrepreneurs safeguard their businesses from cyber threats.
Led by Avis Yates-Rivers, CEO of TCGi and Lunaris, this session delivers actionable cybersecurity strategies—no jargon, no fluff. Whether you’re a solo founder or leading a multi-million-dollar enterprise, you’ll gain insights you can use immediately.
What you’ll learn:

The #1 tactic hackers use—and how to spot it
What the dark web knows about your business (and how to find out)
Why major clients now expect cybersecurity plans from small partners
Steps you can take today to protect your operations, reputation, and future

💡 Bonus: Discover how to claim a complimentary dark web scan—no strings attached.
Don’t wait for a breach to take action. Join us for this timely, empowering session and take control of your digital safety.
REGISTER HERE
Speaker:

With over 40 years of general management experience in the IT industry, Avis Yates Rivers founded TCGi in 2008 to help businesses leverage technology for growth, equity, and efficiency. Her career began at Exxon, selling early technology solutions before launching her first tech company in 1985.
Avis is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in technology and business, authoring Necessary Inclusion and earning recognition as a White House Champion of Change in STEM. Under her leadership, TCGi has grown into a trusted partner for Fortune 500 enterprises, government agencies, and educational institutions.

Lunch With the Experts: MGM Empire City Corporate Connection
2025-08-12 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
MGM Empire City Casino Corporate Connection
Tuesday, August 12th 2025
12pm to 1pm EST | Virtual Session

Presenters:

Tobias Thornwell is the Director of Global Business Impact at MGM Resorts International. He leads supplier inclusion strategies across regional properties, ensuring alignment with corporate and local diversity goals. With over 12 years in procurement and supply chain management, Tobias is a recognized advocate for business diversity and was honored with WBEC Greater DMV’s Outstanding Women’s Business Advocate Award in 2023.

Mohamed Hafizur is the Purchasing Manager at Empire City Casino, MGM Yonkers, where he oversees procurement, vendor sourcing, and supplier diversity. With over 40 years in hospitality and 23 years in purchasing, he brings deep industry expertise. He holds degrees in Accounting and Economics and a C.P.D. certification from Cornell University.

Join us for an engaging Corporate Connections session focused on supplier diversity and procurement. Learn about MGM’s Global Business Impact Program, vendor onboarding, procurement opportunities, and their supplier database. This session is designed to empower WBEs with insights and connections to navigate corporate sourcing processes.
REGISTER HERE
Don’t miss this empowering opportunity to learn, grow, and connect.

Accelerate Your Story: WBEC Metro NY Powerplay Pitch Competition – LIVE in NYC!
2025-08-13 11:00
Join us in-person on August 13th in the heart of New York City for the LIVE WBEC Metro NY Powerplay Pitch Competition, hosted at the iconic Paramount Headquarters in Times Square. This electrifying event will spotlight 10 outstanding Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) as they showcase their pitching prowess and power up their businesses.
This year’s theme, Accelerate Your Story, celebrates the impact of authentic storytelling in business. Each finalist will deliver a compelling, story-driven pitch that answers the question: “What is your company’s message?”
📍 Location: Paramount Headquarters, Times Square, NYC
📅 Date: August 13, 2025 @ 11am
🎟️ Format: In-Person Event
🎤 Meet the 2025 WBEC Metro NY Finalists:

PFG MedComm – Lalitha Priya Chandrashekhar
Precision HealthCare Consultants – Vanessa Best
87th Street Creative – Sherene Strausberg
When She Comes Home LLC – Diana Hilaire
Bake Me Healthy – Kimberle Lau
BYBBA – Pamela Seidman
Linda A Hamilton CPA LLC – Linda A. Hamilton
Corii Burns – Quieesha Burns
SWAIR – Carrie Sporer
Fabric To Finish Inc. – Jamie Koff

The top 4 finalists will advance to the WBENC National Semi-Finals on October 27–28, with a chance to compete for the $25,000 grand prize at the WBENC National Finals!
Don’t miss this powerful opportunity to support local women entrepreneurs, connect with industry leaders, and be inspired by the stories that drive innovation and impact.
👉 Register now to secure your spot
Let’s power up together—your presence makes a difference!

Accelerate Your Story: WBEC Greater DMV Powerplay Pitch Competition – LIVE in Washington, D.C.!
2025-08-14 11:00
We want to see you in-person on August 14th at the vibrant Anacostia Arts Center in Washington, D.C. for the LIVE WBEC Greater DMV Powerplay Pitch Competition! This dynamic event will feature 10 incredible Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) as they showcase their pitching skills and power up their businesses.
This year’s theme, Accelerate Your Story, emphasizes the power of authentic storytelling in business. Each finalist will deliver a compelling, story-driven pitch that answers the question: “What is your company’s message?”
📍 Location: Anacostia Arts Center, Washington, D.C.
📅 Date: August 14, 2025 @ 11am
🎟️ Format: In-Person Event

🎤 Meet the 2025 WBEC Greater DMV Finalists:

Excellence Brainery DBA Vocal Value – Linnita Hosten
The Ambition Studio – Queirra Fenderson
Phoenix Lifestyle Marketing Group – Elizabeth Caulder
Soul Therapy Media – Julian B. Kiganda
EPICC Technologies – Kamilah Mantle
DeVine Wine Jelly – LaKesha Veney
SUMMA., LLC – Carolyn Demougeot
Good News Financial & Investment Advisors LLC – Jovan Jackson
Oyster Insight – Molly Wilmer
Snapify LLC – Aniya D. Omopariola

The top 4 finalists will advance to the WBENC National Semi-Finals on October 27–28, with a chance to compete for the $25,000 grand prize at the WBENC National Finals!
Don’t miss this powerful opportunity to support local women entrepreneurs, connect with business leaders, and be inspired by bold, story-driven innovation.
👉 Register now to secure your spot
Let’s power up together—your presence makes a difference!

Sustainability Accelerator Module 2 Workshop 3
2025-08-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 2 — Checking Your Sustainability Compass
Workshop 3 – Example Systems and Assessments

August 19th, 2025 | 1pm to 3pm EST | Virtual
Sustainability is a business imperative for corporate partners.
Come join WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV and program partners, The Fehlig Group, for the 2024 Sustainability Accelerator, an accessible and actionable program to help you understand the basics and application of sustainability.
Consisting of three modules running over nine months, it includes four interactive Sessions and six optional drop-in clinics per module to provide expert advice on the unique needs of your business as you embed sustainability into your operation.
MODULE 2: CHECKING YOUR SUSTAINABILITY COMPASS
Showcase the material issues where you have the greatest impact, engage your stakeholders and align with global frameworks.
Identify the foundational policies, practices and systems to have or put in place for sustainable best practice.
Gain the knowledge to create effective policies in critical areas of ethics and transparency, environmental stewardship and diversity, equity and inclusion.
Learn valuable ways of thinking and tools to effectively organize information and measure sustainable performance.
In Module 2: Session 3, you will be introduced to ways of thinking and tools to effectively organize information and prepare for disclosure.
To get the complete program experience, it is strongly recommended to that you attend all sessions of Module 2: See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)
Click to register!

Why and How to Get Certified
2025-08-21 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Why and How to Get Certified
August 21st, 2025 | 1pm EST | Virtual Session

If you’re a 51% women-owned or operated company, you’re just a few steps away from becoming a WBENC-Certified women’s business enterprise (WBE)!
At WBEC Metro NY & Greater DMV, fueling local economic growth through the empowerment of women business owners is our primary mission. We provide WBENC certification—the gold standard in diversity certification—at the regional level and serve as an advocate for certified women-owned businesses by providing our WBEs with resources, programming, network opportunities, and recognition.
Do you want access to supplier diversity and procurement opportunities, networking events with like-minded women entrepreneurs, leadership development programs, and exclusive resources to grow and scale your business?
Join us for a 1-hour webinar and learn why the benefits of Certification go far beyond a Certification seal and the steps you can take to start your Certification process right away.
In this session, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of WBENC Certification, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, and local opportunities within your region and the larger ecosystem.
You’ll also have the opportunity to address your specific questions with our WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV staff.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council’s (WBENC) mission is to fuel economic growth globally by identifying, certifying, and facilitating the development of women-owned businesses. They work to accomplish this by focusing on their CORE platform — Certification, Opportunities, Resources, and Engagement.

I'm Certified, Now What?
2025-08-28 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Maximizing Your WBENC Certification
August 28th, 2025 | 1pm to 2pm EST | Virtual Session

WBENC Certification can be an amazing tool to help open doors and uncover business opportunities to take you from where you are to where you want to be. To fully unlock the extensive benefits of the WBENC network, we highly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities and resources available to you – both locally and nationally. Attend this session to learn more about the core components of our network and the steps you can take today to make the most out of your certification. Participation is recommended for all newly certified and recertified WBEs, as well as WBEs who wants to stay up to date on what’s happening in the network.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.

Convergence 2025 Supplier Expo and Career Fair
2025-09-09 09:30 - 14:30 | Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N 3rd St, Richmond, VA, 23219
Join Convergence 2025, hosted by Dominion Energy, a dynamic supplier expo and career fair bringing together over 65 exhibitors from across industries. This is your chance to connect with leading companies, explore upcoming business opportunities, and build valuable relationships. Whether you’re a small, local, or diverse business looking to grow, or a job seeker ready to make your next move, Convergence 2025 offers direct access to decision-makers, career insights, and the future of innovation. Opportunities await—don’t miss it!
Register now!

Why and How to Get Certified
2025-09-09 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Why and How to Get Certified
September 9th, 2025 | 10am EST | Virtual Session

If you’re a 51% women-owned or operated company, you’re just a few steps away from becoming a WBENC-Certified women’s business enterprise (WBE)!
At WBEC Metro NY & Greater DMV, fueling local economic growth through the empowerment of women business owners is our primary mission. We provide WBENC certification—the gold standard in diversity certification—at the regional level and serve as an advocate for certified women-owned businesses by providing our WBEs with resources, programming, network opportunities, and recognition.
Do you want access to supplier diversity and procurement opportunities, networking events with like-minded women entrepreneurs, leadership development programs, and exclusive resources to grow and scale your business?
Join us for a 1-hour webinar and learn why the benefits of Certification go far beyond a Certification seal and the steps you can take to start your Certification process right away.
In this session, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of WBENC Certification, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, and local opportunities within your region and the larger ecosystem.
You’ll also have the opportunity to address your specific questions with our WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV staff.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council’s (WBENC) mission is to fuel economic growth globally by identifying, certifying, and facilitating the development of women-owned businesses. They work to accomplish this by focusing on their CORE platform — Certification, Opportunities, Resources, and Engagement.

Sustainability Accelerator Module 2 Workshop 4
2025-09-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 2 — Checking Your Sustainability Compass
Workshop 4 – Module and Workbooks Review

September 9th, 2025 | 1pm to 3pm EST | Virtual
Sustainability is a business imperative for corporate partners.
Come join WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV and program partners, The Fehlig Group, for the 2024 Sustainability Accelerator, an accessible and actionable program to help you understand the basics and application of sustainability.
Consisting of three modules running over nine months, it includes four interactive Sessions and six optional drop-in clinics per module to provide expert advice on the unique needs of your business as you embed sustainability into your operation.
MODULE 2: CHECKING YOUR SUSTAINABILITY COMPASS
Showcase the material issues where you have the greatest impact, engage your stakeholders and align with global frameworks.
Identify the foundational policies, practices and systems to have or put in place for sustainable best practice.
Gain the knowledge to create effective policies in critical areas of ethics and transparency, environmental stewardship and diversity, equity and inclusion.
Learn valuable ways of thinking and tools to effectively organize information and measure sustainable performance.
In Module 2: Session 4, you will continue to move forward on your sustainability journey. Put your values into practice and start measuring your impact. Recognize winning roadmaps from your fellow participants.
To get the complete program experience, it is strongly recommended to that you attend all sessions of Module 2. See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)
Click to register!

Your Business Could Be Next: The Proven Way to Spot a Breach Before Hackers Do (Even as AI Gets Smarter)
2025-09-16 10:00
Monday, September 16, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. ET
Back by popular demand, Part 2 of Your Business Could Be Next will take you deeper into the cybersecurity risks facing today’s businesses. In Part 1, WBEs shared that their biggest concern in the event of a cyberattack is damage to their reputation. Many also took advantage of Lunaris’ Dark Web scans, uncovering just how real the risks are.
In this powerful follow-up session, you’ll learn:
✅ How hackers are using AI to move faster and smarter
✅ The early warning signs of a breach most leaders overlook
✅ A proven way to stop a breach before it costs you contracts, credibility, and revenue
Who Should Attend?
Growth-minded WBEs, business leaders, and entrepreneurs ready to protect their business reputation and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.
Register now!

With over 40 years of general management experience in the IT industry, Avis Yates Rivers founded TCGi in 2008 to help businesses leverage technology for growth, equity, and efficiency. Her career began at Exxon, selling early technology solutions before launching her first tech company in 1985.
Avis is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in technology and business, authoring Necessary Inclusion and earning recognition as a White House Champion of Change in STEM. Under her leadership, TCGi has grown into a trusted partner for Fortune 500 enterprises, government agencies, and educational institutions.

Marketing in a Digital World with CHASE for Business
2025-09-16 12:00
September 16, 2025 | 12pm EST
Join us for an engaging and insightful session with Evena Sumra, Vice President and Senior Business Consultant at JPMorgan Chase, as we explore how to elevate your brand and connect with your audience in today’s digital landscape.
In “Marketing in a Digital World,” Evena will guide entrepreneurs and small business owners through key strategies to build visibility and foster community online. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your digital presence, this session will equip you with actionable tools to grow your business.
What You’ll Learn:

How to get noticed and build community online

Understanding your unique business identity

Identifying where your customers are and how to reach them

Maximizing your online platforms for impact

Analyzing performance and making strategic adjustments
Taking ownership of your digital spaces

Evena Sumra is a seasoned banking professional with over 23 years of experience, including more than two decades with JPMorgan Chase. Her career spans leadership roles such as Branch Manager, Business Relationship Manager, and Commercial Banker. In her current role, she partners directly with entrepreneurs to close operational gaps and implement sustainable growth strategies.
Beyond her corporate work, Evena is a passionate community advocate. She volunteers with The Links, Incorporated, supports youth development, and serves on multiple boards including Opportunity Charter School and the Women’s Enterprise Development Center—championing the success of women business owners.
With her deep industry expertise and commitment to service, Evena brings a powerful blend of strategic insight and community engagement to help businesses thrive.
Register now!

I'm Certified, Now What?
2025-09-25 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Maximizing Your WBENC Certification
September 25th, 2025 | 1pm to 2pm EST | Virtual Session

WBENC Certification can be an amazing tool to help open doors and uncover business opportunities to take you from where you are to where you want to be. To fully unlock the extensive benefits of the WBENC network, we highly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities and resources available to you – both locally and nationally. Attend this session to learn more about the core components of our network and the steps you can take today to make the most out of your certification. Participation is recommended for all newly certified and recertified WBEs, as well as WBEs who wants to stay up to date on what’s happening in the network.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.

Lunch With the Experts: Own your Story, Own the Room with Farah Bala
2025-09-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Lunch with the Experts
Tuesday, September 30 2025
12pm to 1pm EST | Virtual
As women business leaders, your story is your differentiator—it’s what sets you apart in a crowded marketplace and gives your business its heartbeat. In this session, we’ll explore how to present yourself with executive presence, sharpen your communication, and build authentic connections through storytelling rooted in your WHY. You’ll learn how to craft and deliver your story in a way that resonates with corporates, investors, and partners.
Together, we’ll tap into techniques to help you think on your feet, respond with confidence, and stay connected to your authentic voice in any high-stakes moment. Most importantly, we’ll explore what it means to step up as a leader: shifting from solopreneur to entrepreneur, owning your growth, and boldly sharing your story as the foundation of your leadership and business success.
Register now!

Farah Bala is a Leadership EDIA (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Anti-Oppression) Executive Coach, Consultant and Speaker. Through her certified minority, woman-owned agency FARSIGHT. Farah’s mission is to support organizations and leaders redefine the concept of leadership by making EDIA a core leadership competency. Her clients include executives in the C-suite, creatives and entrepreneurs, and organizations across wide-ranging sectors and industries. She is also a faculty coach at multiple learning & development institutions.
She is a recipient of the Diversity Award by the World Zoroastrian Organization, recognized for her work in raising awareness towards gender, culture, racial equity and inclusion globally. Farah has been featured in Forbes and is a contributing member to the Forbes Coaches Council. She is co-creator of Wonder Women, an invite-only executive women-of-color leadership development community under FARSIGHT

One Page Business Plan: Mission, Vision, and Purpose
2025-10-01 10:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
GET READY TO BUILD YOUR BUSINESS PLAN!
In One Page Business Plan, participants will dive deep into their business to create a roadmap for growth and profit. Starting with the foundations, from cultivating a money mindset and getting clear on your why, all the way to clarifying your current profit picture and strategizing your marketing to increase revenue.
Consider this program your MBA: Masters in Business Agility, where you’ll have everything you need to quickly adapt and respond to changes in an ever-changing business environment.
To apply for One Page Business Plan: Click here!
One Page Business Plan is delivered by Linda A. Hamilton of Linda A. Hamilton CPA, WBEC Metro NY’s 2024 WBE Star.

Linda Hamilton, CPA, CEPA, MAUS, CPBA, SYSTEMologist®, Speaker, and Co-President of Institute of Advisors Greater NY Chapter. Linda A Hamilton, CPA LLC is an award-winning CPA firm in New York City working with business owners and nonprofits for more than 30 years. The firm offers Controller Level accounting services and advises U.S. businesses and international companies doing business in the U.S on tax matters. We work with business owners and professional services advisors to build value & grow their companies in our Grow, Profit, Scale mastermind and coaching programs. We offer discovery sessions, business health checks, Critical Client Flow®, & Concierge Level SYSTEMology™ services. We help businesses align goals with both personal and business vision, finance, and accounting. Documenting business systems can make or break a business as it grows.
A frequent and sought-after speaker, Linda Hamilton is in demand for her expertise in business and tax planning, financial fluency, budgeting, succession planning, business process improvement, and using a simple business plan as roadmap to grow. Linda has served on the Partnership & LLC Tax Committee of NYSCCPA & is a member of AICPA, The Women Presidents Organization, The Woodard Alliance, The Exit-Planning Institute, The Institute of Advisors, and Advisory Board of Enterprising Women Magazine. The company is o a WBENC certified woman-owned company. The company’s headquarters is in New York City. Linda loves to walk for miles in Manhattan, read mysteries, do 3,000-piece jigsaw puzzles, and binge-watch TV shows with her husband. As a volunteer preschool teacher on Sunday for 25 years, Linda learned patience which helps when explaining complex tax and accounting to business owners. Linda splits her time between New York City and Florida.

One Page Business Plan: Office Hours
2025-10-03 10:00 - 10:30 | Virtual
GET READY TO BUILD YOUR BUSINESS PLAN!
In One Page Business Plan, participants will dive deep into their business to create a roadmap for growth and profit. Starting with the foundations, from cultivating a money mindset and getting clear on your why, all the way to clarifying your current profit picture and strategizing your marketing to increase revenue.
Consider this program your MBA: Masters in Business Agility, where you’ll have everything you need to quickly adapt and respond to changes in an ever-changing business environment.
OFFICE HOURS: 10AM to 10:30am EST
To apply for One Page Business Plan, please visit our website: WBEC NY DMV One Page Business Plan Program
One Page Business Plan is delivered by Linda A. Hamilton of Linda A. Hamilton CPA, WBEC Metro NY’s 2024 WBE Star.

Sustainability Accelerator Module 3 Workshop 1
2025-10-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 3 — Ready, Set, Go
Workshop 1 – Developing an Environmental Management System (EMS)

October 7th, 2025 | 1pm to 3pm EST | Virtual
Sustainability is a business imperative for corporate partners.
Come join WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV and program partners, The Fehlig Group, for the 2024 Sustainability Accelerator, an accessible and actionable program to help you understand the basics and application of sustainability.
Consisting of three modules running over nine months, it includes four interactive Sessions and six optional drop-in clinics per module to provide expert advice on the unique needs of your business as you embed sustainability into your operation.
MODULE 3: READY, SET, GO!
Put your business values into practice to provide meaningful impact in areas that matter to you as well as your corporate partners.
Learn how to develop internal systems to manage, track and improve sustainable performance.
Gain the knowledge to develop effective managements systems expected by corporate partners and in sustainability assessments and certifications.
Understand how to prepare for sustainability disclosures and how to score well on third-party assessments or certificates.
Learn how to calculate your carbon footprint with a free tool that translates your business activities into greenhouse gas emissions requested by major corporations.
In Module 3: Session 1, you will build on the momentum from Module 2 and learn about creating your own Environmental Management System (EMS).
To get the complete program experience, it is strongly recommended that you attend all sessions of Module 3, See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)
Click to register!

Why and How to Get Certified
2025-10-07 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
Why and How to Get Certified
October 7th, 2025 | 2pm EST | Virtual Session

If you’re a 51% women-owned or operated company, you’re just a few steps away from becoming a WBENC-Certified women’s business enterprise (WBE)!
At WBEC Metro NY & Greater DMV, fueling local economic growth through the empowerment of women business owners is our primary mission. We provide WBENC certification—the gold standard in diversity certification—at the regional level and serve as an advocate for certified women-owned businesses by providing our WBEs with resources, programming, network opportunities, and recognition.
Do you want access to supplier diversity and procurement opportunities, networking events with like-minded women entrepreneurs, leadership development programs, and exclusive resources to grow and scale your business?
Join us for a 1-hour webinar and learn why the benefits of Certification go far beyond a Certification seal and the steps you can take to start your Certification process right away.
In this session, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of WBENC Certification, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, and local opportunities within your region and the larger ecosystem.
You’ll also have the opportunity to address your specific questions with our WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV staff.
Reserve your spot today!
Click here to register.
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council’s (WBENC) mission is to fuel economic growth globally by identifying, certifying, and facilitating the development of women-owned businesses. They work to accomplish this by focusing on their CORE platform — Certification, Opportunities, Resources, and Engagement.
