NSW Women-owned business cohort event

Putting you at the centre of your circle Women business owners spend a great deal of time thinking about what their businesses, customers, teams and families need from them. This day asks a different question: What do you need around you to thrive? Health and wellbeing. Mentors and trusted advisers. A network of other women business owners. Access to corporate and government buyers. Knowledge about how to make the most of your women-owned certification. And opportunities to practise telling the story of your business. This event ticks all of those boxes. And it will help participants identify and strengthen the connections that can support both them and their businesses. This is a free event delivered in partnership between WEConnect International and Women's Network Australia, with the support of Women NSW. Book now for a practical day of learning, connection and opportunity as part of the NSW Government and WEConnect Accelerator Program for women-owned small businesses. Program Time Session 9:30–10:00 am Arrival, registration and networking. Tea and coffee, with an opportunity to reconnect with fellow business owners and meet new participants. 10:00–10:10 am Welcome and opening remarks. Cheryl Gray, WEConnect International and Women’s Network Australia, and a representative from the New South Wales Government (TBC). Reflections on the cohort's journey and the value of building connections across the wider women-owned business community. 10:10–11:10 am Mind your health, mind your business: Growing without losing yourself. Presented by Dimitra Mersinia. An interactive session exploring the relationship between wellbeing, mindset, burnout and business performance, with practical strategies for managing pressure, protecting energy and building a sustainable business. 11:10–11:40 am Making WEConnect International work for your business. Presented by Alicia Beachley. A practical Q&A exploring the benefits of certification, accessing corporate procurement opportunities and leveraging the WEConnect International network to build valuable commercial relationships. 11:40 am–12:20 pm Networking lunch. An opportunity to connect with WNA members, corporate and government representatives, fellow business owners and potential collaborators. 12:20–12:50 pm The mentoring advantage: Building relationships that accelerate growth. Presented by Christine Kulatunga, Founder, Leverage Mentoring. Exploring the benefits of mentoring, the differences between mentoring and coaching, finding the right mentor and making the most of mentoring relationships. 12:50–1:40 pm The Pitch Pit: Five minutes to make your mark. Six women-owned businesses will each have five minutes to pitch their business to a panel of experienced buyers, followed by a short collective feedback and insights session. 1:40–2:00 pm Connections that count: Networking and next steps. Facilitated networking to encourage introductions, identify opportunities for collaboration and help participants turn the day's conversations into meaningful business relationships. Closing remarks and next steps from WEConnect International and WNA. 2:00–2:30 pm Optional: WEConnect International certification help desk. Bring your own device for personalised support from WEConnect International certification experts, including assistance with registration, certification requirements and navigating the process. Informal networking continues for other participants. Afters Social networking opportunity