Amplify Mastermind 2024: Building Your A-Team/Cooperation/Kolb
2024-07-10 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
July 10th, 2024 | 10am to 11:30am EST | Virtual

Amplify is a Mastermind program uniquely designed to engage and support Women of Color in maximizing supplier diversity access so WBEs can scale the business. Participants in Amplify Mastermind have access to industry experts, masterclasses from Supplier Diversity Sponsors, and Amplify mentors to guide them through the journey of breaking through equity gaps and barriers.
Amplify is intended for Certified WBEs who identify as Women of Color-owned, are experiencing barriers related to the racial equity gap, and are seeking support, peer accountability, and a community to grow with.
Applications for Amplify Mastermind Program open in February. For more information, please go to wbecnydmv.org/programs/amplify

“Special Bonus* Pitch Academy Amplify Your Intro: Start Strong and WIN!
2024-07-11 11:00
“Special Bonus* Pitch Academy Amplify Your Intro: Start Strong and WIN!

Discover the best strategies for “wowing” your audience and captivating their attention in an impactful way with Bofta Yimam, fellow WBE and the Founder of StoryLede®. Bofta is an Emmy Award-Winning Journalist, International Speaker and Story-Focused Marketing Strategist.
Gain valuable insights and learn best practices to calm your nerves as well as top tips for presenting LIVE in-person or on video. This session is not just for the Top Ten WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV participants, but also for the entire WBE network.
If you caught Bofta’s keynote at the 2022 WBENC in Nashville, then you know she always BRINGS the gems you need.

Bofta Yimam is an Emmy Award-Winning Journalist, International Speaker and the Founder of StoryLede®, a fractional marketing agency that uses storytelling to position companies and their CEOs as industry leaders so they can skyrocket their visibility, impact and growth. Before launching StoryLede, Bofta worked as a local and national TV correspondent for more than a decade, including reporting for CBS and ABC networks. She is the first Ethiopian-American newscaster to receive an Emmy award and is a sought-after speaker who’s spoken in London, Africa as well as across the U.S. She is the recipient of multiple awards, including the 2023 Women Enterprising Women award.

Don’t miss out: Register for this special one-hour virtual session below.
Click to register!

Why and How to Get Certified
2024-07-11 13:00 - 14:00
July 11th, 2024 | 1pm to 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!
Register Here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrcOihqTkiGdB86fKWzfwgr9ANiGTWYFQm
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: AARP Supplier Diversity
2024-07-23 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024
12:00pm–1:00pm ET

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.

Kimberly N. Ayers
Director, Supplier Diversity, Procurement and Contract Management, AARP
As AARP’s Director, Supplier Diversity within Procurement and Contract Management, Kimberly Ayers is responsible for managing and fostering partnership opportunities between AARP internal stakeholders, the procurement team, and small and diverse suppliers to drive increased awareness and usage of small and diverse businesses enterprise wide. Ms. Ayers ensures that AARP stays connected to the community by: championing continuing educational opportunities for entrepreneurs, the promotion of minority and small business certification opportunities, and sponsoring diverse initiative opportunities provided by AARP diversity partner organizations to bring greater visibility and awareness to the issues facing small and diverse businesses.

Click to register!

Amplify Mastermind 2024: Business Development and Networking
2024-07-24 10:00 - 11:30
July 24th, 2024 | 10am to 11:30am EST | Virtual

Amplify is a Mastermind program uniquely designed to engage and support Women of Color in maximizing supplier diversity access to WBEs can scale the business. Participants in Amplify Mastermind have access to industry experts, masterclasses from Supplier Diversity Sponsors, and Amplify mentors to guide them through the journey of breaking through equity gaps and barriers.
Amplify is intended for Certified WBEs who identify as Women of Color-owned, are experiencing barriers related to the racial equity gap, and are seeking support, peer accountability, and a community to grow with.
Applications for Amplify Mastermind Program open in February. For more information, please go to wbecnydmv.org/programs/amplify

Sustainability Accelerator Module 2 Workshop 2
2024-07-30 13:00 - 15:00
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 2 — Checking Your Sustainability Compass
Workshop 2 – Foundation: Policies, Practices and Systems

July 30th, 2024 | 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 workshops 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: Workshop 2, you will understand the foundational policies, practices and systems to have/put in place for sustainable best practice.
Register Here!
See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)

WIPP MatchMaker Madness
2024-07-31 13:00 - 16:00
REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
Great connections are the foundation to business success and that is why
WIPP and National HUBZone Council are excited to host
MatchMaker Madness on July 31st from 1 – 4pm ET.
Meet one-on-one in a private virtual environment with the buying teams of government agencies and prime vendors to develop relationships, understand their purchasing process and identify supply chain opportunities.

AGENDA (Eastern Times):
12:00 – 12:45 Panel on MatchMaker Follow Up Best Practices
1:00 – 4:00 One-on-One MatchMaker Meetings**
REGISTRATION:
WIPP Ambassador and Champion Members – FREE*
WIPP Advocate Members – $50*
(*must be signed into WIPP profile)

HUBZone Members – FREE

(when using approved code)

Non-Member Bundle – $175
(includes a one-year Advocate level WIPP membership)
To expedite your registration process, please have your NAICS, CAGE, and UEI information ready.
You must upload your generic Capability Statement to complete your registration.
Matches will be made based on the buying teams’ needs and then business owner requests.

Click to register!

WBEC Metro NY And Greater DMV: I'm Certified, Now What?
2024-08-01 13:00 - 14:00
“I’m Certified, Now What?”
Maximizing Your WBENC Certification
August 1st, 2024 | 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.
Reserve your spot today!
Click to register!

Build Your Business Wealth Seminar Series: Empowering Entrepreneurs with Financial Knowledge
2024-08-06 11:00 - 12:00
Build Your Business Wealth Seminar Series:
Empowering Entrepreneurs with Financial Knowledge
Every successful entrepreneur knows that building a strong business requires more than just a great idea or product. It also takes financial savvy to navigate market fluctuations, manage cash flow, and make strategic investments. However, many entrepreneurs lack formal finance education, putting them at a disadvantage.
That’s why we are excited to announce our Build Your Business Wealth Webinar Series – a program designed to empower entrepreneurs with essential financial knowledge. Through a series of webinars, we will cover business finance topics and provide resources and tools to help entrepreneurs make informed decisions and achieve financial success.
SEMINAR ONE
Smart Strategies for Small Business
August 6th, 12:00am – 1:30pm ET
This program is geared for business owners in the early stages of their business. Those established within the first 5 years and managing their first sources of revenue. The conversation will cover understanding the small business landscape, protecting your small business, succession planning, and assembling a professional team.
Register Now!
Meet the Expert

Natalya Robbins, ChFC®, RICP®, WMCP®
Financial Planner
Worksite Education Program Speaker
Natalya Robbins is passionate about providing her clients with the tools and education they need to navigate life’s financial challenges. With more than 23 years in the financial services industry, Natalya recognizes the more knowledge her clients have, the more empowered and confident they feel about achieving their goals.

Amplify Mastermind 2024: The Art of The Sale
2024-08-07 10:00 - 11:30
Amplify Mastermind 2024: The Art of The Sale

August 7th, 2024 | 10am to 11:30am EST | Virtual

Amplify is a Mastermind program uniquely designed to engage and support Women of Color in maximizing supplier diversity access to WBEs can scale the business. Participants in Amplify Mastermind have access to industry experts, masterclasses from Supplier Diversity Sponsors, and Amplify mentors to guide them through the journey of breaking through equity gaps and barriers.
Amplify is intended for Certified WBEs who identify as Women of Color-owned, are experiencing barriers related to the racial equity gap, and are seeking support, peer accountability, and a community to grow with.
Applications for Amplify Mastermind Program open in February. For more information, please go to wbecnydmv.org/programs/amplify

Why and How to Get Certified
2024-08-08 13:00 - 14:00
Why and How to Get Certified
August 8th, 2024 | 1pm to 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!
Register Here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUlduqprTgrE9fmHOg6IzkdeHh_5dcOxeVm
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: NYPA Corporate Connections
2024-08-13 12:00 - 13:00
Lunch with the Experts: NYPA Corporate Connections
August 13th, 2024 | 12pm to 1pm ET | Virtual Session

Join the New York Power Authority and the NYS Canal Corporation on August 13 as it Builds Powerful Connections for a Brighter Tomorrow. Hosted by WBEC Metro NY for its members, this event will provide insight into how women-owned businesses can compete and win contracts with America’s largest public power organization.
This webinar will:

Provide insights into upcoming projects and opportunities;
Describe the criteria for becoming a vendor;
Navigating the procurement process; and,
Business solutions offered through NYPA’s Supplier Diversity Program

Register now for this informational webinar designed to provide you with the information and access your business needs to unlock opportunities.
ABOUT:
The New York Power Authority (NYPA) is America’s largest state power organization, with a mission to lead the transition to a carbon-free, economically vibrant New York State through customer partnerships with other state and local entities, innovative energy solutions, and responsible supply of affordable, clean, and reliable electricity.
As part of our organization, NYPA operates, maintains, and promotes the NYS Canal system through its subsidiary, NYS Canal Corporation. New York’s Canal system includes four historic canals: the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga-Seneca. Spanning 524 miles, the canal waterways link the Hudson River with the Great Lakes, the Finger Lakes, and Lake Champlain. Following much of the original towpaths, the Canal system also includes the 365-mile Canalway Trail, which runs from Albany to Buffalo and from Albany to Whitehall and is all part of the 750-mile Empire State Trail—the nation’s longest multi-use recreational trail network.

Aziza Gamble, Supplier Diversity Associate
Aziza works to increase the usage of MWBEs and SDVOBs. She creates new business development opportunities for NYPA and Canals by fostering relationships between buyers, program managers, end users and the vendor community.
Click to register!

2024 WBEC Metro NY Live Regional Pitch Competition
2024-08-14 10:30
2024 WBEC Metro NY Live Regional Pitch Competition

August 14th, 2024, 10:30am EST
Hosted By: Stephanie Scott Bradshaw CEO and Communicator-in-Chief of First and Last PR

Join us to cheer on your fellow WBEs as they pitch in the 1st round of the 2024 WBENC Pitch Competition! During this virtual program, 10 WBE finalists from WBEC Metro NY will pitch their businesses to local corporate judges for a chance to compete in the WBENC semi-finals.
Here are our Top 10 WBEC Metro NY Pitch Finalists:
Luminoustudios, Inc., Sania Jhankar, https://luminoustudios.com/
Unmentionables LLC DBA Panic Panties, Maria-Nicole Marino, www.panicpanties.com
87th Street Creative, Sherene Strausberg, http://87thstreetcreative.com
Sheilisa McNeal – Fria Jewelry, Sheilisa McNeal, www.myfria.com
iWoman, Inc., Cathleen Trigg-Jones, iwoman.tv
Levelle Inc DBA Levelle Nutrition, Linda Alvarez, www.levellenutrition.com
Wet Cement Inc., Jennifer Willey, https://www.Wet-Cement.com
Front Burner Publishing Inc. DBA Dam Good English Muffins, Olivia Weale, https://www.damgoodenglishmuffins.com/
WEST X EAST CO / WEST X EAST, Tania Kottoor, https://westxeast.com/
SWAIR Inc, DBA SWAIR, Carrie Sporer, https://www.swairhair.com/
https://wbecnydmv.org/programs/wbenc-pitch-competition/

Click to register!

2024 WBEC Greater DMV Live Regional Pitch Competition
2024-08-14 14:30
2024 WBEC Greater DMV Live Regional Pitch Competition

August 14th, 2024, 2:30pm EST
Hosted By: Theresa R. Proctor CEO of Forward Movement Enterprises

Join us to cheer on your fellow WBEs as they pitch in the 1st round of the 2024 WBENC Pitch Competition! During this virtual program, 10 WBE finalists from WBEC Greater DMV will pitch their businesses to local corporate judges for a chance to compete in the WBENC semi-finals.
Here are our Top 10 Pitch Finalists:
Speak to Society, Quinn Conyers, QuinnConyers.com
Queirra Fenderson, LLC d/b/a The Ambition Studio, Queirra Fenderson, www.theambitionstudio.com
NBBG LLC dba 2Betties, Bridget Greaney, https://2betties.com/
MsPsGFree Inc – Food Service, Lisa Marsh, https://www.mspsglutenfree.com
Infinity Empowerment Services, Beverly Grandison, https://infinityempowermentsvc.com
In Full Bloom Health and Life Coaching, Dr. Marcea Whitaker, www.drmarcea.com
Homemade in DC, Mackenzie Loy, https://homemadeindc.com/
Good News Financial & Investment Advisors LLC, Dr Jovan Jackson, www.goodnewsfinancialservices.com
FIT2order, Stacy Fritz, www.fit2order.com
BT Beverage & Food, llc., Ruth Berhane-Williams, www.drinkeritea.com
https://wbecnydmv.org/programs/wbenc-pitch-competition/
Click to register!

Build Your Business Wealth Seminar Series: AI, Staying In Charge, Understanding Implications
2024-08-15 12:00 - 13:30
Build Your Business Wealth Seminar Series:
Empowering Entrepreneurs with Financial Knowledge
Every successful entrepreneur knows that building a strong business requires more than just a great idea or product. It also takes financial savvy to navigate market fluctuations, manage cash flow, and make strategic investments. However, many entrepreneurs lack formal finance education, putting them at a disadvantage.
That’s why we are excited to announce our Build Your Business Wealth Webinar Series – a program designed to empower entrepreneurs with essential financial knowledge. Through a series of webinars, we will cover business finance topics and provide resources and tools to help entrepreneurs make informed decisions and achieve financial success.
SEMINAR TWO
AI: Staying In Charge, Understanding Implications
August 15th, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM ET
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here, and its impact has shaken industries. From powering a tech-stock boom, to potentially reshaping the future of financial advice, AI’s disruption can be felt all over. Business leaders need to be aware of AI as both a valuable resource, and potentially a looming threat to their business model. This course guides you through the basics of what makes AI such a powerful new technology. It zeroes in on real world examples of AI implementation. Importantly, it also advises you on the best ways to think about AI and their practice, both today and in the future.
Register Now!
Meet the Speaker

Christina Cuffari
Vice President of Advanced Planning, Sales Technology for Prudential’s Retirement and Life Distribution
Christina Cuffari is the Vice President of Advanced Planning, Sales Technology for Prudential’s Retirement and Life Distribution. She provides value-added programs and in-market technology training to the sales organization, financial professionals, broker-dealers, and the clients that we serve. Her focus is helping our customers utilize Prudential Retirement Strategies technology solutions to better service their clients and help grow their business. She also provides guidance to sales professionals on integrating best practices for leveraging financial planning tools and platforms, social media platforms, and cybersecurity best practices.
Prior to this role Christina has extensive experience working with financial professionals and their clients. Christina started her career as a financial professional with Prudential in southern NJ where she developed a passion for the industry. She has also served as an internal sales consultant covering a multitude of channels and states during her tenure to help her continue to build her knowledge and expertise of the industry. Ms. Cuffari attended The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY and earned her degree in business administration with a minor in communications. During college she was a member of the Women’s soccer team that won the 2011 NCAA National Championship. She also holds the 2011 All-American, 2011 Academic All-American, as well as Player of the Year and Woman on the Year for 2011.

Sustainability Accelerator Module 2 Workshop 3
2024-08-20 13:00 - 15:00
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 2 — Checking Your Sustainability Compass
Workshop 3 – Example Systems and Assessments

August 20th, 2024 | 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 workshops 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: Workshop 3, you will be introduced to ways of thinking and tools to effectively organize information and prepare for disclosure.

Register Here!
See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)

Amplify Mastermind 2024: Celebration
2024-08-21 10:00 - 11:30
Amplify Mastermind 2024: Celebration

August 21st, 2024 | 10am to 11:30am EST | Virtual

Amplify is a Mastermind program uniquely designed to engage and support Women of Color in maximizing supplier diversity access to WBEs can scale the business. Participants in Amplify Mastermind have access to industry experts, masterclasses from Supplier Diversity Sponsors, and Amplify mentors to guide them through the journey of breaking through equity gaps and barriers.
Amplify is intended for Certified WBEs who identify as Women of Color-owned, are experiencing barriers related to the racial equity gap, and are seeking support, peer accountability, and a community to grow with.
Applications for Amplify Mastermind Program open in February. For more information, please go to wbecnydmv.org/programs/amplify

WBEC Metro NY And Greater DMV: I'm Certified, Now What?
2024-08-22 13:00 - 14:00
“I’m Certified, Now What?”
Maximizing Your WBENC Certification
August 22nd, 2024 | 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.
Reserve your spot today!

Register here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAkde2hpzwtGNb4jJ929GhJp5tdTe2orCgG
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Take The Lead PowerUp Concert & Conference
2024-08-25 18:00 - 2024-08-26 16:30
Take The Lead PowerUp Concert & Conference

The Take The Lead PowerUp Concert & Conference is a dynamic two-day experience created to energize and inspire women leaders. Our very own Angela Franco will be a featured speaker and attendee at the event, and we’re inviting you to take part too!
The event kicks off with an electrifying concert on August 25th, featuring renowned artists Betty, Sweet Honey In The Rock, and Marina Arsenijevic. This concert sets the stage for the transformative conference that follows, where attendees will be equipped to lead with confidence and purpose. The iconic Lynda Carter, celebrated for her role as Wonder Woman, will be honored with the 2024 Leading Woman Award, further highlighting the conference’s focus on celebrating female achievement.
The PowerUp Conference begins on August 26, where through a series of impactful sessions, attendees will gain valuable insights into leadership development and strategies for achieving gender parity. The conference will foster a vibrant environment for networking, collaboration, and celebrating the accomplishments of women across diverse industries. It will be a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and forge connections.
Click here for more information!

Lunch with the Experts: Understanding Insurance, Protecting your Assets While Competing with Big Business with AARP
2024-08-27 12:00 - 13:00
Lunch with the Experts: Understanding Insurance, Protecting your Assets While Competing with Big Business with AARP
Tuesday, August 27th, 2024
12:00pm–1:00pm ET

As an entrepreneur, you already possess the drive and passion needed to be a risk-taker and innovator. However, navigating the essential aspects of running a business requires a strategic approach. Join us in this session as Lisa Hilton, CCSA, MLIS, CHP, REAS and Director Insurance Management, AARP explore the crucial elements of identifying risks and integrating insurance solutions to bolster your entrepreneurial pursuits. Discover how proactive risk management can safeguard your ventures and propel your business towards sustainable growth and success.

Lisa Hilton, CCSA, MLIS, CHP, REAS
Director Insurance Management, AARP
Lisa Hilton is the Director of Risk & Insurance Management for AARP. Her career spans over 25 years in the areas of enterprise risk management, captive creation and management and fraud investigation. She is responsible for AARP’s insurance portfolio, captive program, ergonomics and maintains risk management responsibilities for 50 state offices; plus, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and an Associate’s degree in Administration of Justice. She is a certified Certified Cyber Security Architect (CCSA), Management Liability Insurance Specialist (MLIS), Certified HIPAA Professional (CHP) and Remote Ergonomic Assessment Specialist (REAS).

Click to register!

Learn and Experience Generative AI
2024-08-28 11:00 - 12:30
Register for the Free IBM watsonx Interactive Workshop

This is a special invitation to experience a new era of generative artificial intelligence (AI), which is expected to drive AI adoption, offer unmatched scalability, and be easily adapted to unique scenarios and use cases.
IBM Global Supplier Diversity is excited to invite you to attend the watsonx Workshop on August 28, 2024, at 11:00 am Eastern. Join to hear from IBM leaders on how IBM is helping clients and partners put AI to work and scale and accelerate its impact. The workshop is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience with watsonx, the AI and data platform that’s built for business, and learn how generative AI can provide innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Click to register!
After registration, watch for your confirmation email. Prior to the workshop start date, you’ll also receive additional information on how to access watsonx Assistant so you can follow along and try it out yourself during the workshop.

Ascend Retail Business Accelerator
2024-08-29 12:30 - 13:30
Are you a product-based business ready to explore retail opportunities? Have you found success in pop-up markets or e-commerce and are looking to take your business to the next level? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!
The Ascend Retail Business Accelerator for Fall 2024 is a comprehensive, 6-week program designed to support creative retail brands and businesses like yours. Facilitated by SEED SPOT, a globally recognized accelerator for diverse and impactful entrepreneurs, this program offers retail-focused workshops, training, and access to market opportunities.
The focus areas of Ascend Retail include:

Developing business foundations – Business canvas creation and evaluation
Brand Strategy and Digital Positioning
Training sessions led by industry experts
Developing revenue streams
Financial Management
Gathering consumer insights and conducting research through pop-ups and community activations

Ready to learn more? Join our Information Session on August 29th.
We are hosting a Q&A Session on August 29th, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM to answer any of your cohort-related questions. Register now through the link below!
Click here to register.

Cybersecurity Intensive Information Session
2024-09-03 12:00 - 12:30
September 3rd, 2024 | 12pm to 12:30pm ET | Virtual Session

We invite you to join our 2024 Cybersecurity Intensive Information Session that will delve into the WBEC Metro NY & Greater DMV’s latest offering, the Cybersecurity Intensive program. This event aims to give potential participants a comprehensive overview of the program’s objectives and benefits, emphasizing how it can empower WBEs to enhance their cybersecurity measures.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, connect with fellow business owners, and gain valuable insights into protecting their digital assets in today’s increasingly vulnerable landscape
Don’t miss this chance to bolster your understanding of cybersecurity and discover strategies to secure your business’s future!

Angela Dingle
As President and CEO of Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), Angela Dingle leads a national nonpartisan organization advocating on behalf of women entrepreneurs, strengthening their impact on our nation’s public policy, creating economic opportunities, and forging alliances with other business organizations. Serving as the voice for the over 14 million women owned companies in the U.S., WIPP works with lawmakers to impact and influence policy that provides economic equity, procurement inclusion and access to the global marketplace.
Prior to serving in this role, Angela founded Ex Nihilo Management, an award-winning technology and management consultancy that provides governance, risk management and cybersecurity (GRC) to the public, private and non-profit sector. Her commitment to client success earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor and strategic partner. Angela is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, sharing her insights and expertise at conferences and events focused on women in business and government contracting. She is the author of Discovering Your Girl Powers: 10 Strategies to Build Confidence, Charisma and Credibility and Unexpected Leader: 11 Tools for Transformational Leadership. She has written articles and publications that provide valuable leadership guidance. Angela holds a MS in Management Information Systems from Bowie State University, a BS in Computer Science from DeVry University, a Certified Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Practitioner, and a Certified Management Consultant (CMC). Angela is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Click to register!

Convergence 2024: A Supplier Diversity Expo & Job Fair
2024-09-10 10:00 - 14:00 | Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N 3rd St, Richmond, VA, 23219

Lunch With the Experts: Developing Your Capabilities Statement
2024-09-10 12:00 - 13:00
Lunch with the Experts: Developing Your Capabilities Statement
September 10th, 2024 | 12pm to 1pm ET | Virtual Session

As we enter Quarter 4, now is the time to participate in a hands-on session on crafting a stellar capabilities statement that speaks for your unique business strengths. Join Darcy Flanders from Baseline Group and Dawn Wells from Northwell Health for a workshop on how to design a capabilities statement that leaves a lasting impression on clients and collaborators. Through this Lunch With the Experts, participants will gain the skills to develop a compelling digital bio that showcases your leadership and accomplishments.

Gain knowledge about corporate supplier diversity programs
Understand how to navigate sourcing/procurement processes.
Learn from experts about specific business issues relevant to WBEs
WBEs are equipped with knowledge to connect with procurement professionals
WBEs network with other WBEs

Dawn Wells
Assistant Vice President, Supply Chain, Northwell Health
Dawn Wells is supply chain professional with a public health heart. She currently serves as Assistant Vice President of Supply Chain at Northwell Health, New York’s largest healthcare provider, serving NYC, Long Island, and Westchester. In this role she leads supply chain operations for the Health Systems’ Ambulatory Care Network comprised of more than 830 physician practices and outpatient facilities. In addition to these responsibilities, Dawn takes an active role in championing and facilitating programs that impact all levels of the organization. She has been a consistent champion of diversity; representing supply chain as a member of the diversity and health equity council and corporate social responsibility committee. In 2019, she chartered the health systems supplier diversity council that is charged with creating a cross functional action plan, ensuring that there is a system wide commitment to maintaining the diversity of the Health System’s suppliers, putting in place standardized processes for measuring goals and success, and partnering with external agencies to educate and deliver information to diverse suppliers within the communities served.
Dawn joined Northwell Health in 2003 as a member of the project implementation team that established framework for integrating finance, supply chain, and human resources under a shared-services umbrella. Over the years she has defined and redefined her position and responsibilities in response to the organization’s rapid growth. Dawn currently serves on the board of the NYNJ Minority Supplier Development Council. She holds a B.S. in Business and a Masters of Public Health from Adelphi University.

Darcy Flanders
Founder / Chief Brand Strategist Baseline
As founder and chief brand strategist of BaselineGroupNY, Darcy is the visionary. Her strength lies in the ability to interpret clients’ goals and translate then into visually impactful and targeted printed and digital solutions. Her passion for design is contagious and her emphasis on teamwork leads to great collaborative solutions. Drawing on 35+ years of expertise, you can count on Darcy to lead an information-oriented, responsive and time-sensitive creative process that considers the big picture and instinctively understands the importance of the smallest detail and the strictest schedule. Darcy has envisioned and managed corporate branding initiatives for clients such as: Galliard Capital Management, Citi Alternative Investments, Citi Private Bank, HSBC Private Bank and Rutgers Business School, Wrigley, and PSEG LI.
Darcy is also passionate about helping her fellow MWBEs develop brands, websites and marketing materials and has worked with: JURISolutions Legal (JSL), McKissack & McKissack, Mrs. Paper, Savoca Enterprises, Winston Strategic Partners, Pina Solutions, Lob Planning and A,& S Rebar – to name a few. Her work has received numerous awards from the Financial Communications Society, Society of Technical Communication, the Association of the Graphic Arts, Graphic Design USA, Step Inside Design and most recently Best of 2020 Manhattan for Branding and Digital Design.
Click to register!

Sustainability Accelerator Module 2 Workshop 4
2024-09-10 13:00 - 15:00
Sustainability Accelerator
Module 2 — Checking Your Sustainability Compass
Workshop 4 – Module and Workbooks Review

September 10th, 2024 | 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 workshops 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: Workshop 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.

Register Here!
See more information here: Sustainability Accelerator | WBEC NY & DMV (wbecnydmv.org)

Veteran Business Summit
2024-09-12 08:00 - 16:00
Veteran Business Summit

Veteran Business Summit 9/12/2024 from 8AM – 4PM

Only a few tickets remain. Tickets have been selling very quickly for this event, so sign up today. This is going to be an amazing event that will help you navigate the world of Federal, State, and County Government procurement, as well as procurement in the private sector.
Our general session will be jam packed with information and we will do deep dives in our amazing breakout sessions. In our general session, you will hear from experts on:
* Federal Procurement
* County Contracting Opportunities
* Private Sector Business Opportunities
* A resource panel that will discuss needed resources available to veteran owned businesses and small businesses
* You will hear from Veteran business owners who have been awarded multi-million dollar contracts and how they were able to break through
* You will see the state’s latest spends with DVOBs, and hear about new opportunities coming down the pike.
We will also have several different tracks of breakout sessions that will help you to learn about new & upcoming opportunities and will also help you to become the best possible entrepreneurs that you can.
Additionally, we are putting together a capability book for the event, so please make sure you send in your capability statement to info@njveteranschamber.com. The deadline is Friday, August 30th, so be sure to be included. If you want to see what a good capability statement looks like, please check out last year’s capability book at https://njveteranschamber.com/links-resources/
Click on the 2023 Veteran Capability Book.

There will also be supplier diversity and procurement tables set up so you can speak one on one with various companies about upcoming contracts and potential opportunities.
Sign up today and don’t miss this great event!

You can register and get your tickets here: https://app.asforms.net/api/as/jPAlg

Citi + Accenture: Collaborate for SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT
2024-09-12 10:00
Citi + Accenture: Collaborate for SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT

Click to register!

Why and How to Get Certified
2024-09-12 13:00 - 14:00
Why and How to Get Certified
September 12th, 2024 | 1pm to 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!
Register Here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkf–gqTIvGNG4cP972qamgvudlzZeFbKQ
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.

Capital One Supplier Diversity Summit
2024-09-18 08:00 - 2024-09-19 17:00
Capital One Supplier Diversity Summit

We are very excited to announce that registration is open for the Capital One 2024 Supplier Diversity Summit.
2024 Agenda at a Glance
September 18:
Supplier Diversity Expo
September 19:
Midmorning Kickoff with Opening Remarks and State of Supplier Diversity with Capital One Leaders
Keynote by Lindsay Hansen, MVP Brand, Capital One
AI Panel Discussion led by Sandra Eberhard, President & CEO, WBEC Metro NY & Greater DMV
— Lunch —
Category Strategy Sessions
Panel Discussion on the Growth Journey of Diverse Owned Businesses in Today’s Environment
Awards and Networking Reception
Click here for more information!
