INSPIRE Women’s Business Conference to return with presentations, workshops and panel discussions 

The INSPIRE Women’s Business Conference is returning this year as a dynamic, one-day event with keynote presentations, interactive workshops, panel discussions, and curated networking opportunities with local vendors and exhibitors. 

The conference is an event from the Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB), a program of the Thurston Economic Development Council. 

The council said in announcing the event that the conference brings together business owners, leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs from across Washington to equip women entrepreneurs and professionals with the “tools, connections, and confidence to grow and thrive.” 

“INSPIRE is more than a conference — it’s a space where women come together to learn, share, and build each other up,” said Ashley Whitley, Program Manager for WCWB in a statement. “Our goal is for every attendee to leave with practical strategies, meaningful connections, and renewed confidence in their journey.” 

Featured programming includes: 

• Keynote presentation by Jessica Caldwell, CEO of Wildkind Outdoors/Academy 

• Opening address from Miss Washington, Amber Pike, sharing her mission and message of impact for women 

• Interactive breakout sessions covering marketing strategy, Small Business Association (SBA) resources, productivity and decision-making frameworks 

• Women’s beauty and self-care panel, featuring local industry leaders sharing personal journeys and business insights 

• Business awards recognition honoring outstanding women in business in innovation, community impact and leadership 

The conference blends business education with personal development through sessions, such as: 

• Funding Your Business Needs with SBA Programs — Melanie Norton, SB 

• You Don’t Need More Content — Megan Gillespie, Olympia Boss Society 

• Creating Brand Partnerships — Mariya Raginsky, The Added Value Group 

• The Invisible Inheritance — Heidi Carlson Coaching 

• Getting Down to Business — Kara Withers, PathForward LLC 

• From Passion to Profit — Ife Thomas, HerGlow 

The conference will take place in Lacey on May 28 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets cost $100, plus fees and sales tax.  

Registration allows access to all sessions, networking opportunities, vendor marketplace, conference materials and lunch.