May 16th - Networking Evening 4pm-7pm
An informal time to meet with speakers, panelists and fellow attendees to build professional relationships and create relevant contacts that can help you achieve your long-term professional goals. Light appetizers and a no-host bar will be available.

May 17th
9:00 - 9:20 AM Morning Check-In
Check-in at the door begins. You can also purchase tickets at the door (if available). Please be seated before 9:30am. Morning refreshments will be available.

9:30 - 10:30 AM - Protect Your Brand: Understanding Trademarks & Intellectual Property Essentials with Sarah Rhoades
Unlock the secrets of intellectual property (IP) and discover how to protect your brand in this engaging and informative session. Dive into the fundamentals of IP, including patents, trademarks, trade secrets, and copyrights, and gain a clear understanding of what sets them apart. With a special focus on trademarks, this session will break down trademark rights and limitations, giving you the knowledge you need to safeguard your business. Plus, get an insider’s look at the federal application process, so you can confidently take the next steps in securing your brand’s identity. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business owner, or just curious about IP, this session will provide the insights you need to navigate the world of intellectual property with confidence!

11:00 - 12:00 PM - The Entrepreneur's Journey
Step into the world of entrepreneurship with this dynamic panel discussion featuring local business leaders and innovators who have navigated the challenges and triumphs of building their own businesses. From turning ideas into reality to overcoming obstacles and achieving success, our panelists will share their personal journeys, hard-earned lessons, and strategies for staying resilient in a competitive marketplace.

This interactive session is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone looking to gain insights and inspiration from those who have been in the trenches. Bring your questions, and leave with actionable advice and fresh perspectives to take your entrepreneurial aspirations to the next level.
Key Takeaways:
How to identify opportunities and take the first steps in your entrepreneurial journey
Insights on navigating challenges like funding, scaling, and competition
Tips for balancing risk with reward and staying motivated
Real-world advice from seasoned entrepreneurs
Whether you're just starting or looking to grow your business, this session is packed with value to help you on your path to success!
- Matthew Cavanaugh - Jennifer Shepard - Ross Peterson - Corey Dostal

12:00-1:00 PM - Lunch catered by Biga Pizza

1:00 - 2:00 PM - From Chaos to Clarity: Building Resilience in Business Leadership with Annelise Hedahl
Running a business often feels like a constant balancing act in a world of urgent demands and shifting expectations. This session will uncover how to stay grounded, adaptable, and humble while navigating high-stakes challenges. Discover how to turn pressure into opportunity, prioritize effectively, and lead with resilience in even the most unpredictable circumstances.

2:30 - 3:30 PM - The Power of Marketing: Building Connections That Drive Results
Effective marketing is more than just getting your message out—it’s about creating connections that matter. This panel discussion dives into the principles of successful marketing, offering practical advice for building your brand, telling your story, and growing your business. Whether you’re navigating the digital landscape, developing creative campaigns, or strengthening community ties, this session will provide the inspiration and tools to make an impact.
- Shelby Humphrey - Jill Alban - Megan Pfaff

4:00 - 5:00 PM - From Vision to Reality: Practical Tools for Business Development with Josh Plum
This session dives deep into actionable strategies for turning ideas into successful business ventures. Learn how to identify market opportunities, build systems that scale, and establish a development roadmap that supports long-term growth. The discussion will center on practical approaches to evaluating business opportunities, creating value, and positioning your business for success in a competitive market.

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