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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Women's Business Development Center
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DTSTART:20260308T080000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260826T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260826T120000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260813T163354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T163354Z
UID:37082-1787742000-1787745600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Capital Readiness 101
DESCRIPTION:Is your business positioned to weather financial challenges\, adapt to changing market conditions and take advantage of expansion opportunities? External capital may be a necessary tool. But what should every business owner know about preparing for accessing capital? \nThis session is a must for any business owner hoping to acquire external capital such as grants\, lines of credit\, business credit cards and/or term loans. Attendees will gain foundational knowledge for navigating the capital landscape successfully. Join Director Kelly Gumbiner for this insightful session! \nPart of The Source x WBDC Webinar Series.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/capital-readiness-101-7/
CATEGORIES:Access to Capital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Cohort-Email-Banner-Promo-Template.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260826T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260826T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260806T213349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T211844Z
UID:37060-1787745600-1787749200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:The Growth Lab | Episode 4
DESCRIPTION:The Growth Lab is back — and Episode 4 is going to be one you don’t want to miss.\nAt The Growth Lab\, entrepreneurs bring their real business challenges to a panel of experienced advisors and subject matter experts. In each session\, one founder takes the spotlight\, sharing the questions keeping them up at night while our panel of advisors delivers strategic insight\, honest feedback\, and actionable guidance. \nEPISODE 4 — Join us live August 26 | 12PM\nMeet Our Founder: Michelle Aronson | Founder of Culture + Strategy Lab \nA former HR executive\, graduate professor\, podcast host\, aspiring author\, and founder of Culture + Strategy Lab\, Michelle Aronson helps leaders create cultures that drive business results by connecting what organizations want to achieve with how people lead\, decide\, and work. After losing her father to Alzheimer’s\, Michelle spent a year traveling the world with the people she loves. The experience changed her perception of time and left her with a lesson that now shapes many of her choices: do not defer the dreams that matter. Life is short. Start now. Today\, she is building a business\, teaching graduate students\, collecting workplace stories\, and writing her first book. She believes growth is essential\, play is underrated\, and Human Resources is one of the most important places to work because people\, growth\, and business results all meet there. She also believes dark chocolate and white space are both essential resources. \nRecently\, Michelle has been navigating the challenge of growing her business while operating with limited resources. She is seeking guidance on reaching new customer segments and scaling operations without compromising quality. Overall\, arriving at the question: What practical strategies exist to support sustainable growth and long-term success. \nMichelle is bringing those questions to The Growth Lab\, and our panel of experienced advisors will dig in live. \nThis is not a webinar. This is not a workshop. This is real talk\, real challenges\, and real solutions – live. \nAdvisory Panel\nSoraya Hernandez | Director\, International Trade Center\, WBDC \nMaura Downs | Chief Program Officer\, WBDC \nGayle Ballard | Director\, Entrepreneurial Program and Services\, Division I\, WBDC \nTogether\, they’ll dig into Jennifer’s questions\, dive into her challenges\, and offer strategic guidance. \nWhat to Expect\n\nMeet the founder and hear her story\nWatch a live advisory panel tackle her real business challenges\nWalk away with insights you can apply to your own business\n\nYou can join us live as a webinar and be part of the experience in real time\, or catch the full episode on our YouTube channel after it airs. Either way\, you won’t want to miss it.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/the-growth-lab-episode-4/
CATEGORIES:Established Businesses,Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Episode-3-Founder-Announcement.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260827T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260827T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260812T194615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T194615Z
UID:37075-1787824800-1787828400@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Use AI to Start Your Business Smarter
DESCRIPTION:Have a business idea but aren’t sure if people will actually want what you’re offering? \nBefore you spend time and money building your business\, join this Illinois SBDC at the WBDC webinar to learn how to find out what potential customers really need. In this fast\, practical 30-minute webinar\, you’ll learn how to: \n\nClearly describe how your business helps people\nIdentify what you need to learn from potential customers\nUse AI to create questions that help you get better customer feedback\nTest your idea before investing significant time or money\n\nYou don’t need any AI experience\, or even an AI account\, to participate. We’ll demonstrate how AI can help you ask better questions\, but the focus is on building a business people actually want. Leave with a smarter next step. \n  \n \n\nPresented by the Illinois SBDC at the Women’s Business Development Center.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/use-ai-to-start-your-business-smarter/
CATEGORIES:Established Businesses,Virtual,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SBDC-WBDC-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260908
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260909
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260723T221435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T190657Z
UID:36980-1788825600-1788911999@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success | Registration Deadline
DESCRIPTION:FOR IL RESIDENTS ONLY. \nRoad to Success Bootcamp is a 4-week bootcamp that covers introductory concepts necessary for emerging and pre-venture entrepreneurs. This bootcamp will include three business education workshops and one combined legal clinic and working session. Participants must complete all four sessions\, attend one advising session\, and complete a follow-up survey in order to be considered a graduate. Graduates are then invited to attend the Road to Success cohort.  \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult with Noeli Serna\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Tuesday | 9:00 am-11:00 am\, CST \nSeptember 8-29\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success-registration-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/R2S-Bootcamp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260127T193615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T230527Z
UID:35324-1788868800-1788872400@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Start your Childcare Business: From Vision to Reality
DESCRIPTION:Are you ready to turn your passion for caring for children into a thriving business?\nWhether you’re planning to open a home daycare or launch a childcare center\, this one-hour webinar will guide you through the essential steps to get started with confidence. \nSession Overview\nLed by industry experts\, this session will cover: \n\nLicensing and legal requirements\nChoosing the right location and setup\nBuilding a business plan and budget\nMarketing your services to families\n\nYou’ll walk away with practical tools\, resources\, and inspiration to take the next step in your childcare journey. Perfect for aspiring providers and early-stage entrepreneurs! \nWho Should Attend\n\nIndividuals interested in starting a home daycare\nEntrepreneurs planning to open a childcare center\nCaregivers and educators seeking guidance on launching a business\n\nProgram Details\nEvery Second Tuesday of the Month | February 10 – December 8\, 2026 \n12:00PM-1:00PM\, CST \nVia Zoom
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-start-your-childcare-business-from-vision-to-reality-2/2026-09-08/
CATEGORIES:Childcare Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/How-to-Start-Your-Childcare-Business-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T200000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260813T192032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T192032Z
UID:37089-1788890400-1788897600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Elevate | Verano 2026
DESCRIPTION:Nuestro Programa de Desarrollo Empresarial para Cuidado Infantil está diseñado específicamente para brindar apoyo a dueños de negocios de cuidado infantil\, tanto en hogares como en centros. \nLos participantes del programa Elevate seguirán un proceso para aprender: \n\nExpandir su negocio: Desarrollarán estrategias para aumentar la clientela y expandir sus operaciones.\nMarketing efectivo: Obtendrán conocimientos sobre las mejores prácticas de marketing para promover sus servicios.\nGestión financiera: Adquirirán habilidades para manejar las finanzas de manera efectiva.\n\nDurante esta cohorte\, aprenderán a expandirse desde su hogar hasta un centro de cuidado infantil y a ser más rentables y eficientes. Al finalizar el programa\, cada participante contará con un plan de crecimiento de un año personalizado para su negocio. \nDetalles del Programa\nFechas: Cada jueves | 8-29 de septiembre\, 2026 \nHorario: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm\, CST \nUbicación: Zoom\n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/elevate-verano-2026/
CATEGORIES:Childcare Businesses,Talleres en Espanol,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Spanish-elevate.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260909
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260910
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260817T221234Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T175105Z
UID:37110-1788912000-1788998399@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Emerging & Pre-Venture Bootcamp | Road to Success Peoria | Registration Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Peoria and Central Illinois \nRoad to Success Bootcamp is a 4-week bootcamp that covers introductory concepts necessary for emerging and pre-venture entrepreneurs. This bootcamp is specifically designed for Peoria entrepreneurs and will include three business education workshops and one combined legal clinic and working session. Participants must complete all four sessions\, attend one advising session\, and complete a follow-up survey in order to be considered a graduate. Graduates are then invited to attend the Road to Success cohort.  \nCohort Curriculum\nWeek One: The Proper Mindset\, Approach\, & Preparation \n\nReadiness Assessment\nFive Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs\nFive Steps to Starting a Business\nBusiness Model Canvas\n\nWeek Two: Developing the Business Plan and Business Model Canvas \n\nCraft Your Business Pitch\nMarketing Strategy\nMarketing Process\nSWOT Analysis\n\nWeek Three: Capital Readiness for Start-Ups  \n\nCapital Readiness 101\nCapital Options\nKiva\n\nWeek Four: Legal Consult & Working Session  \n\nLegal Consult\nWorking session\n\nCohort Details\nWhen:  \nEvery Wednesday | 9:00 am-10:30 am\, CST \nSeptember 9 – 30\, 2026 \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \n \n\n\n\n\nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/emerging-pre-venture-bootcamp-road-to-success-peoria-registration-deadline/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/R2S-Bootcamp-Peoria-.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260813T195432Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T203238Z
UID:37096-1788944400-1788951600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Business Growth Through E-commerce
DESCRIPTION:Build Your Presence. Increase Your Impact. Grow Your Revenue. \nIn today’s business environment\, it is necessary to have a strong digital strategy and the skills needed to grow your business. Whether your business is primarily offline\, partially online\, or already selling through digital channels\, this 6-week cohort will help you build a stronger digital presence and identify practical opportunities for growth. You’ll learn how to strengthen your online presence\, generate leads\, build customer relationships\, and evaluate whether e-commerce is the right next step for your business. Each session combines education\, practical exercises\, and implementation strategies you can immediately apply. Leave with a customized roadmap for growing your business online in the next 90 days. \nCohort Details \nWho: Illinois business owners only \nWhen: Sept 9- Oct 14\, 2026 | 9:00AM – 11:00AM \nWhere: Via Zoom \nSponsored By  \n \n  \nFunded (in part) through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  All opinions\, conclusions\, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/business-growth-through-e-commerce/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/E-commerce-Header.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T120000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260824T175421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T230303Z
UID:37132-1789470000-1789473600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Government Contracting Beginner's Bootcamp
DESCRIPTION:ELEVATE YOUR GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING JOURNEY \nSeptember 15 – October 6\, 2026 | 11:00am – 12:00pm \nJoin the Government Contracting Beginner’s Bootcamp hosted by the Illinois Apex Accelerator at WBDC Tuesdays at 11:00 am; for four dynamic sessions\, each packed with invaluable insights and strategies to help you navigate the world of government contracting with confidence. This bootcamp is tailored for Aurora business owners\, but all Illinois entrepreneurs are welcome! \nHere’s a peek at we’ll cover:\nWeek 1: Introduction to Government Contracting \nWeek 2: How to Do Research to Find Government Contracting Opportunities \nWeek 3: Tips to Create or Improve Your Capability Statement \nWeek 4: How to Create a Government Marketing Strategy for your Business. \n  \nWhen:  \nTuesdays\, September 15 – October 6\, 2026 \n11 am – 12 pm\, CST \nWhere:  \nVia Zoom meetings \nFacilitator:  \nAisha Ahrens | aahrens@wbdc.org \nHosted by the Illinois APEX Accelerator at the WBDC
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/government-contracting-beginners-bootcamp-24/
CATEGORIES:Government Contracting,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GovCon-Bootcamp-_1_.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T183000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260603T203700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T171038Z
UID:36583-1789486200-1789497000@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Minneapolis | WBDC Stronger Together: 40 Years and Forward Celebration and Connection
DESCRIPTION:For 40 years\, the WBDC has been providing tools\, connections and strategic guidance to build and grow successful companies. \nJoin us on September 15th for Stronger Together: WBDC 40th & Forward Celebration. Connect with fellow business owners\, discover new resources and sourcing opportunities\, get inspired by business leaders in our community and shine a spotlight on your business. \nJoin us for a shared evening of celebration and connection – we are stronger together! \n\n\n\n\n\nTickets – 50% off for certified WBEs and Corporate Partners \nCertified WBE Recognition Submission – Spotlight YOUR business! \nWhat to Expect: \n3:00 – 3:30\nRegistration Opens – Business Spotlight Reel\nHors d’oeuvre buffet\, signature mocktails\, cash bar \n3:30 – 4:30\nMeet & Greet Tables hosted by Corporate and Community Partners – See full list below \n4:45 – 6:15\nWelcome – WBDC Celebrates 40 Years\nKeynote – “How We Lead Matters” by Marilyn Carlson Nelson\nBeth Kieffer Leonard Community Impact Award\nInspiring WBE Stories Highlighting WBDC Impact                                \n6:15 – 7:00     \nClosing Remarks and Networking \nMeet & Greet Table Hosts \n\nAllina\nAndersen Corporation\nApex Accelerator\nBlue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota\nCargill\nEcolab\nEisnerAmper\nEO Minnesota\nMedtronic\nMEDA\nMinnesota Black\, Chamber of Commerce\nNAWBO\nNaturallyMN\nThe BWC\nUniversity of Minnesota\nU.S. Bank\nWPO – Women’s President Organization\nWomenVenture\nWomen’s Foundation of MN\nXcel Energy\n\nReserve your spot and join us in celebrating 40 Years!
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/minneapolis-wbdc-stronger-together-40-years-and-forward-celebration-and-connection/
LOCATION:McNamara Alumni Center\, University of Minnesota  200 Oak Street SE  Minneapolis\, MN 55455
CATEGORIES:WBDC Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Minneapolis-website-e1782410855879.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260916T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260916T120000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260814T150726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T150726Z
UID:37103-1789556400-1789560000@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:WBE Certification: Know Before You Apply
DESCRIPTION:This one-hour workshop is for those who are interested in learning more about WBENC’s Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certification. Topics will range from types of certification to documents required for the WBE application.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/wbe-certification-know-before-you-apply-8/
CATEGORIES:Certification,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/wbe-certification-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260917T100000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20251215T231353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T231353Z
UID:35084-1789635600-1789639200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:WBE Onboarding
DESCRIPTION:​Newly certified as a WBENC WBE\, or wanting a refresher about how the WBDC and WBENC networks work? Join us for this free 45-minute webinar. Please note that this program is aimed at companies who are WBE certified\, not those thinking about getting certified.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/wbe-onboarding-42/
CATEGORIES:Certification
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/wbe-certification-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260918
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260919
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260825T194303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T223049Z
UID:37144-1789689600-1789775999@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:FedCon Cohort | Application Deadline
DESCRIPTION:Unlock Federal Contracts: Grow Your Manufacturing Business with the U.S. Government\nDo you want to expand your business in 2027 with the Federal Government as your client? The WBDC has developed a unique federal government training opportunity available for your business: FedCon \nWhat’s FedCon?\nFedCon is an exclusive 8-week training program designed specifically for established Illinois manufacturing businesses ready to scale through federal contracting. For this Fall session\, we’ll focus on training manufacturers and distributors of goods you’d like to sell to the government. Learn how to navigate the procurement process\, connect with key agencies\, make the right connection with the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) manager for your industry\, and position your company for long-term success in the government marketplace. \nPROGRAM DETAILS \nProgram Dates:\nFridays\, September 25 – November 13\, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST \nWhere:\nA dynamic mix of in-person sessions and virtual workshops to fit your schedule and maximize learning. \nCost:\nThanks to generous sponsorship from Capital One and the Illinois APEX Accelerator at the WBDC\, there’s no cost to participate. \nApplication Deadline: \nSeptember 18\, 2026 \nFacilitator: Donna Beasley | dbeasley@wbdc.org \nReady to Make the Government Your Next Big Customer? \nApply today! Spots are limited. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your business and tap into billions in federal contracts. \n \n  \n \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/fedcon-cohort-application-deadline-3/
CATEGORIES:Government Contracting,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/FedCon.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260922T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260922T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260603T205215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260804T171847Z
UID:36585-1790071200-1790082000@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:St. Louis | WBDC St. Louis Region - Small Business
DESCRIPTION:Forty Years of Impact. A Future Without Limits. \nAttendees will experience a high-impact program featuring a powerful keynote address\, bold insights from accomplished entrepreneurs\, and energizing conversations focused on navigating today’s economic realities—including access to capital\, b2b networking opportunities\, and strategies to scale and sustain growth. \nWhether you’re ready to take your business to the next level\, expand your network with purpose\, or gain fresh perspective to lead with confidence\, this forum is designed to challenge\, equip\, and inspire you to think bigger and move forward with intention. Join a powerful community of business leaders who are not just adapting to change\, but driving it—building businesses\, creating opportunities\, and shaping a future without limits. \nSeptember 22\, 2026 | 10:00am \nBoundary at The Cheshire\n7036 Clayton Avenue\nSt. Louis\, MO 63117 \n$30 – General Admission\n$20 – Members (WBENC Certified WBEs)\n$0 – Corporate Partners
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/wbdc-st-louis-region-small-business/
LOCATION:Boundary at The Cheshire\, 7036 Clayton Avenue MO\, St. Louis\, 63117\, United States
CATEGORIES:WBDC Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Regional-Event-2026-Marketing-3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261006T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261006T113000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260224T163136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T163136Z
UID:35473-1791277200-1791286200@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Write a Business Plan Workshop
DESCRIPTION:FOR ILLINOIS RESIDENTS ONLY. “How to Write a Business Plan\,” a virtual workshop designed specifically for pre-venture entrepreneurs. In this workshop\, current and future entrepreneurs learn how to turn your business ideas into a structured business plan that sets your venture up for success. Whether you are new to entrepreneurship or refining your concept\, this session will give you the tools and confidence to move forward. 
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-write-a-business-plan-workshop-2/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261012T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261012T140000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260107T231220Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T231220Z
UID:35185-1791802800-1791813600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Essentials of Leveraging Your WBE Certification - Session 1
DESCRIPTION:This interactive 2-part series is designed for WBEs who want to make sure they are using their WBENC WBE Certification to the fullest. Session 2 is How to Develop an Impactful Capability Statement. The one-page capability statement is a critical tool in articulating your value to potential customers.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/essentials-of-leveraging-your-wbe-certification-session-1-7/
CATEGORIES:Certification
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Essentials-of-Leveraging-Your-WBE-Certification.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261013T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261013T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260127T193615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T230528Z
UID:35325-1791892800-1791896400@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Start your Childcare Business: From Vision to Reality
DESCRIPTION:Are you ready to turn your passion for caring for children into a thriving business?\nWhether you’re planning to open a home daycare or launch a childcare center\, this one-hour webinar will guide you through the essential steps to get started with confidence. \nSession Overview\nLed by industry experts\, this session will cover: \n\nLicensing and legal requirements\nChoosing the right location and setup\nBuilding a business plan and budget\nMarketing your services to families\n\nYou’ll walk away with practical tools\, resources\, and inspiration to take the next step in your childcare journey. Perfect for aspiring providers and early-stage entrepreneurs! \nWho Should Attend\n\nIndividuals interested in starting a home daycare\nEntrepreneurs planning to open a childcare center\nCaregivers and educators seeking guidance on launching a business\n\nProgram Details\nEvery Second Tuesday of the Month | February 10 – December 8\, 2026 \n12:00PM-1:00PM\, CST \nVia Zoom
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-start-your-childcare-business-from-vision-to-reality-2/2026-10-13/
CATEGORIES:Childcare Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/How-to-Start-Your-Childcare-Business-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T100000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20251215T231453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T231453Z
UID:35086-1792054800-1792058400@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:WBE Onboarding
DESCRIPTION:​Newly certified as a WBENC WBE\, or wanting a refresher about how the WBDC and WBENC networks work? Join us for this free 45-minute webinar. Please note that this program is aimed at companies who are WBE certified\, not those thinking about getting certified.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/wbe-onboarding-43/
CATEGORIES:Certification
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/wbe-certification-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T220000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260615T181110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260617T183527Z
UID:36651-1792087200-1792101600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:WBDC 40th Anniversary Celebration
DESCRIPTION:You’re invited! \nFor 40 years\, the Women’s Business Development Center has been the place where ideas became businesses\, where founders became leaders\, and where the Midwest’s economy got stronger\, one woman-owned business at a time. \nNone of this would have been possible without you. \nThat’s why we want you to join us on Thursday\, October 15\, 2026\, at the Adler Planetarium for WBDC 40 & Forward\, a gala honoring the community that built four decades of impact and the future we’re creating together. \n\nAn inspiring program celebrating the founders\, business owners\, partners\, and leaders who shaped WBDC’s first 40 years\nA Legacy Gallery curated from four decades of stories\, wins\, milestones\, and moments that mattered\nThe Adler’s immersive exhibits and breathtaking Sky Shows\nLive entertainment and an evening of reconnecting with the entire WBDC community\n\nWhile we honor the past\, we’re raising critical support to expand the programs and services that will shape the next generation of entrepreneurs. Your presence and your investment make that possible. \n  \nWe hope you’ll join us under the stars!\nThursday\, October 15\, 2026 | 6–10 PM | Adler Planetarium \n  \nPlease note: No tickets will be sold at the door. 
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/wbdc-40th-anniversary-celebration/
LOCATION:Adler Planetarium\, 1300 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr\, Chicago\, IL\, 60605\, United States
CATEGORIES:WBDC Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Content-Pillar-Playbook-5-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261019T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261019T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260107T231342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T231342Z
UID:35187-1792407600-1792414800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:Essentials of Leveraging Your WBE Certification - Session 2
DESCRIPTION:This interactive 2-part series is designed for WBEs who want to make sure they are using their WBENC WBE Certification to the fullest. Session 2 is How to Develop an Impactful Capability Statement. The one-page capability statement is a critical tool in articulating your value to potential customers.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/essentials-of-leveraging-your-wbe-certification-session-2-6/
CATEGORIES:Certification
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Essentials-of-Leveraging-Your-WBE-Certification.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260127T193615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T230528Z
UID:35326-1794312000-1794315600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Start your Childcare Business: From Vision to Reality
DESCRIPTION:Are you ready to turn your passion for caring for children into a thriving business?\nWhether you’re planning to open a home daycare or launch a childcare center\, this one-hour webinar will guide you through the essential steps to get started with confidence. \nSession Overview\nLed by industry experts\, this session will cover: \n\nLicensing and legal requirements\nChoosing the right location and setup\nBuilding a business plan and budget\nMarketing your services to families\n\nYou’ll walk away with practical tools\, resources\, and inspiration to take the next step in your childcare journey. Perfect for aspiring providers and early-stage entrepreneurs! \nWho Should Attend\n\nIndividuals interested in starting a home daycare\nEntrepreneurs planning to open a childcare center\nCaregivers and educators seeking guidance on launching a business\n\nProgram Details\nEvery Second Tuesday of the Month | February 10 – December 8\, 2026 \n12:00PM-1:00PM\, CST \nVia Zoom
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-start-your-childcare-business-from-vision-to-reality-2/2026-11-10/
CATEGORIES:Childcare Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/How-to-Start-Your-Childcare-Business-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T100000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20251215T231544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T231544Z
UID:35089-1795078800-1795082400@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:WBE Onboarding
DESCRIPTION:​Newly certified as a WBENC WBE\, or wanting a refresher about how the WBDC and WBENC networks work? Join us for this free 45-minute webinar. Please note that this program is aimed at companies who are WBE certified\, not those thinking about getting certified.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/wbe-onboarding-44/
CATEGORIES:Certification
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/wbe-certification-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261201T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261201T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260224T163817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T163817Z
UID:35475-1796115600-1796122800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Write a Business Plan Workshop
DESCRIPTION:FOR ILLINOIS RESIDENTS ONLY. “How to Write a Business Plan\,” a virtual workshop designed specifically for pre-venture entrepreneurs. In this workshop\, current and future entrepreneurs learn how to turn your business ideas into a structured business plan that sets your venture up for success. Whether you are new to entrepreneurship or refining your concept\, this session will give you the tools and confidence to move forward. 
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-write-a-business-plan-workshop-3/
CATEGORIES:Start-Up & Emerging Businesses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Startup-and-Emerging-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261208T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261208T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20260127T193615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T230528Z
UID:35327-1796731200-1796734800@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:How to Start your Childcare Business: From Vision to Reality
DESCRIPTION:Are you ready to turn your passion for caring for children into a thriving business?\nWhether you’re planning to open a home daycare or launch a childcare center\, this one-hour webinar will guide you through the essential steps to get started with confidence. \nSession Overview\nLed by industry experts\, this session will cover: \n\nLicensing and legal requirements\nChoosing the right location and setup\nBuilding a business plan and budget\nMarketing your services to families\n\nYou’ll walk away with practical tools\, resources\, and inspiration to take the next step in your childcare journey. Perfect for aspiring providers and early-stage entrepreneurs! \nWho Should Attend\n\nIndividuals interested in starting a home daycare\nEntrepreneurs planning to open a childcare center\nCaregivers and educators seeking guidance on launching a business\n\nProgram Details\nEvery Second Tuesday of the Month | February 10 – December 8\, 2026 \n12:00PM-1:00PM\, CST \nVia Zoom
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/how-to-start-your-childcare-business-from-vision-to-reality-2/2026-12-08/
CATEGORIES:Childcare Businesses,Virtual
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/How-to-Start-Your-Childcare-Business-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261217T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261217T100000
DTSTAMP:20260825T200135
CREATED:20251215T231923Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T231923Z
UID:35091-1797498000-1797501600@www.wbdc.org
SUMMARY:WBE Onboarding
DESCRIPTION:​Newly certified as a WBENC WBE\, or wanting a refresher about how the WBDC and WBENC networks work? Join us for this free 45-minute webinar. Please note that this program is aimed at companies who are WBE certified\, not those thinking about getting certified.
URL:https://www.wbdc.org/en/event/wbe-onboarding-45/
CATEGORIES:Certification
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.wbdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/wbe-certification-event.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR