Likes & Launch

WEFestival describes itself as “An event for women entrepreneurs” but it should say THE EVENT for Women Entrepreneurs. 

I attended the event two years ago and assumed it would be similar to most conferences: listen in a big room, hear from only the top 1% of leaders without a lot of actionable steps, lots of business cards with little connection. NOT THIS CONFERENCE. 

The speakers were fantastic, all coming from different areas of entrepreneurship, not just tech or small business or finance, a true cross section. It’s a great way to gain insights from other industries to apply to your own. It helps you stop to think outside of your own domain and learn something new. 

WE Festival builds out time to connect and to learn about the other people in the room. The attendees were just as impressive as the people on stage and the organizers recognized that. Opening time to networking and opening all sessions to questions were key decisions to facilitate those conversations.

The best part, even two years after the event I’m still connected to many of the women I met at WE Festival. They’ve reached out to offer advice and ask questions; It’s a bond I’ve rarely found after most conferences. Of the twenty close connections I made that day, I’ve seen women grow their businesses 10x, pivot business models, land big contracts, or raise capital. I’ve also seen them change careers, get promotions and take on more mentorship roles in the community. The caliber of attendees is unmatched and their ongoing success only improves the WE community over time. 

Congrats to Joanne, Susan and the WE Festival team on continuing a great event.

If you are a women entrepreneur or know someone who is, apply to the 2016 WE Festival in NYC. There are 400 spots so spread the word to the women you know who could benefit from an event dedicated to: finding inspiration, revisiting their company vision, learning from the many leaders who’ve done it before, and making lasting connections. 

I hope to see you there!