No matter what size budget a business has for marketing, there are essentials of effective business marketing and branding that all entrepreneurs should understand. Marketing and communications strategist, Annie Connole, will give an overview of the foundational principles of marketing and brand strategy so that businesses, organizations, and non-profits can better evaluate their needs and work on building successful marketing plans.

Annie will begin her formal presentation at 5:30 p.m. and lead a roundtable discussion from 6-7 p.m. No registration required.

Cost: Free

Professional Background: Since starting with Strategies in 2010, and then moving to lead the firm's Missoula office in 2012, Annie Connole has built a strong reputation among clients across the state for developing successful media, brand, and public relations strategies; producing new media content; and conducting game-changing market research.

While at S360 Montana, Annie has designed and executed research-driven brand, media engagement, marketing, and communications strategies for a diverse client list, that has included the Montana University System, University of Montana, NaturEner, Montana Bankers Association, Montana Children's Trust Fund and American Federal Savings Bank, among others.

Prior to joining Strategies 360, Annie began her career in New York at a strategic branding firm, Olive, where she directed and conceptualized online engagement strategies and helped clients grow in the new media space. Annie's clients included La Cense Beef, Alsace wines, Honeywell, NorthPoint and Sterling College.

Annie is a graduate of The New School in New York City, where she received B.A. in Art and Philosophy.

The Innovation Initiative is a cooperative effort between Missoula Economic Partnership, the University of Montana and Hellgate Venture Network. We pair entrepreneurs and businesses in all growth stages with the resources, insight and expertise they need to prosper and create jobs. This collaborative program provides a wide variety of entrepreneurial assistance, free. All Innovation sessions are open to the public.