To get familiar with the WBENC National Conference schedule, follow these tips:

1. Refer to the Schedule-At-A-Glance: This condensed overview provides a quick snapshot of the conference schedule.
2. Read Conference Materials and Stay Updated: Keep an eye out for any pre-conference materials or emails sent by WBENC. We will provide updates on specific events and additional schedule details as the 2026 WBENC National Conference approaches. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date!
3. Engage with your Regional Partner Organization in advance: Your RPO will be sharing valuable information and preparation resources, including networking opportunities so that you can connect with fellow WBEs before you hit the ground in New Orleans.
4. Review Session Descriptions: Look for descriptions of each session or workshop once announced. This will give you an idea of the content and focus of each event, helping you decide which ones are most relevant to you.
5. Prepare to Network and Engage: Take note of any networking events, receptions, or social gatherings. These can be valuable opportunities to connect with fellow attendees.
6. Attend Virtual Conference Orientation sessions! This will be the BEST way to get the latest and greatest on how to best prepare for Conference. Registered attendees will get an email with a link to sign up!
7. Download the WBENC App (COMING MID-MAY’26): Download and install the app on your smartphone or tablet. The app provides access to the full schedule, session details, and networking features, and is only available to registered attendees.
8. Plan Your Sessions: Based on your interests and goals, make a plan for which sessions you want to attend with the Conference mobile app (COMING MID-MAY’26).
9. Set Reminders: If you’re using a digital calendar, set reminders for the sessions you want to attend. This way, you won’t miss any important events.

By staying updated and getting prepped in advance, you’ll be well prepared and familiar with the WBENC National Conference schedule, making the most out of your conference experience!

We’re excited to offer optional tours for conference attendees! To make each tour possible, a minimum number of participants is required. If enough attendees sign up, we’ll confirm the tour and share final details. We encourage you to register early to help us make it happen! Add an excursion on during your Conference registration process! Register Now!

1. Antelope Island Tour
   Experience spectacular views of the Great Salt Lake, step back in time with a visit to the historic Fielding Garr Ranch, enjoy viewing opportunities of free-ranging bison, mule deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorns, and millions of birds who congregate along the shores of the Great Salt Lake. 
   Cost: $115
   Time: 2:00 PM – 7:15 PM
   Included: Transportation, Boxed Dinner, Bottled Water, Local Tour Guides, and Park Entry Fee 

2. Sundance Resort Zipline Tour
   Enjoy a relaxing and scenic motorcoach ride up Provo Canyon toward Sundance Resort with views of dramatic limestone cliffs, cascading mountain streams, and wide vistas of the Wasatch Range unfolding as you approach the base of Mount Timpanogos. The Sundance Zip Tour experience features all three of the resort’s summer chairlifts—offering sweeping panoramic views—as well as a demo zipline and three full-length spans. Participants can also relax on the lodge decks, browse the General Store, or grab a bite at one of the on-site restaurants
   Cost: $250
   Time: 1:00 PM – 8:20 PM 
   Included: Transportation, Boxed Dinner, Bottled Water, 1 Demo Zipline, 3 Full Length Ziplines, and Local Tour Guides  

3. Bonneville Salt Flats
   Explores this natural phenomenon unlike any other, taking you across its vast 30,000-acre expanse and into its fascinating history. Walk across the seemingly endless salt crust, capturing panoramic photos and experiencing the awe-inspiring flatness that makes the Bonneville Salt Flats so legendary. Learn about the land speed racing that takes place here, where legendary feats of speed were achieved, and the Tree of Life Sculpture a captivating landmark amidst the vast desert landscape. 
   Cost: $115
   Time: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
   Included: Transportation, Boxed Dinner, Bottled Water, Park Entrance Fee, Local Tour Guides

Tuesday, June 16 | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM 

Transform your morning into an exhilarating journey through eight dynamic industries throughout our Industry Workshops.

More details coming soon!

Step into the heart of excitement and turbocharge your networking game at the WBENC Expo! This is your chance to mix and mingle with the exhibitors you’ve had your sights on. Take your time strolling through the specialized Industry sections, and at every corner, discover a wealth of exhibitors waiting to forge new connections, offer solutions, and open doors to fresh prospects.

It’s not just an expo—it’s a bustling hub of networking and information galore! In addition to discovering a world of expo booths, engage in hands-on exhibitor demonstrations, dive into interactive activities, explore Women Owned Demo Stations, and seize invaluable 1:1 meeting opportunities. Get ready for an experience that’s more than just booths—it’s a dynamic showcase of possibilities!

Open Expo Hours:

• Wednesday, June 17 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM MT
• Thursday, June 18 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM MT

Make a LASTING impression with approximately 4,000+ attendees as an exhibitor at the 2026 WBENC National Conference!

Prepare for an exhilarating week with the WBENC network, where the General Sessions will energize and inspire you as you kick off your week. Get ready to gather invaluable insights about the network and join in the celebration of the remarkable individuals who breathe life into the vibrant WBENC community.

These sessions are not to be missed, offering a unique blend of wisdom, camaraderie, and inspiration that will leave you energized and empowered. Get ready to dive into an event that goes beyond the ordinary – it’s a celebration of innovation, resilience, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.

General Sessions
Monday, June 15
2:15 – 3:30 PM MT

Tuesday, June 16
12:00 – 2:00 PM MT

Wednesday, June 17
2:00 – 3:30 PM MT

Thursday, June 18
1:00 – 2:30 PM MT

WBENC Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs) are 14 dynamic organizations that serve as local touchpoints, providing invaluable support, resources, and expertise to women-owned businesses. 

At the 2026 WBENC National Conference, each RPO will be strategically organized into a designated room, each representing a distinct region. These Meet Ups aim to create powerful connections with each attendee’s local network and create a seamless and enriching experience, allowing them to carry these new relationships with them throughout the rest of conference and beyond.

Whether you’re seeking certification, exploring growth opportunities, or looking to expand your network, the RPOs at the conference will be your trusted guides, ready to propel your business forward. Don’t miss this chance to connect with these pivotal partners and harness the full potential of your business.

RPO Meet Up & Activity
Monday, June 15 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Seize this golden opportunity to rekindle old connections, extend warm greetings, and forge exciting new bonds within your RPO as you embark on an impactful week in Salt Lake City.

WBENC Cafe Lunches

Tuesday, June 16
12:00 – 2:00 pm

Wednesday, June 17
12:00 – 2:00 pm 

Thursday, June 18
11:00 am – 1:00 pm 

This open format buffet style lunch welcomes attendees to come and go as you wish.

One of the most powerful parts about the National Conference is the generous amount of time for casual networking. Have some fun with your dynamic network of powerful women and #Hes4Shes. And let’s not forget the evening events – they’re the golden ticket to uncovering fresh connections and supercharging the ones you already have. Our Salt Lake City events will be filled with opportunity! We’re counting down the days to welcome you there!

Monday Evening Event
Monday, June 15 | 5:30 – 7:30 pm

Kick off the week with an unforgettable evening inspired by the wonder of America’s National Parks. This opening reception invites you to gather, connect, and explore in a relaxed, high-energy atmosphere that sets the tone for the days ahead. Mingle with colleagues while enjoying park-inspired touches, interactive activities, and moments of discovery designed to spark conversation and connection. Whether you’re reconnecting with familiar faces or meeting new ones, this reception is your trailhead—launching a shared journey of business opportunity, collaboration, and growth.

Tuesday Evening Event | Sneaker Jam: hosted by LEO Events and WBENC
Tuesday, June 16 | 5:30 – 7:30 pm

Sneaker Jam is back and bolder than ever! Kick off the WBENC National Conference in style at the Fourth Annual Sneaker Jam, hosted by LEO Events and WBENC. This high-energy reception invites all badged attendees to lace up their boldest sneakers and dive into an evening of music, mingling, and movement.

Celebrate women-owned innovation as you explore curated experiences and products in the vibrant Women’s Marketplace. Snap pics, savor tasty bites, and hit the dance floor with interactive entertainment. Bring your flair—and your footwear—for a chance to win in our sneaker style showdown, with prizes for Best Group Look, Most Unique Sneaker, Flashiest Sneaker, and Audience Favorite.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a Sneaker Jam veteran, this is the party you don’t want to miss. Let’s jam!

Wednesday Evening Event – Offsite

Wednesday, June 17th | 6:00 – 9:00 pm 

Experience an evening where architecture, music, and connection collide inside the stunning Salt Lake City Public Library. Dance your way through a silent disco with three DJs, savor a curated selection of elevated hors d’oeuvres, and head to the rooftop for world‑famous WBENC karaoke with sweeping mountain views. Through shared experiences, and unexpected moments, this interactive evening creates a refreshing way to deepen relationships and get to know potential business collaborators beyond the usual introductions. Mix, mingle, sing, and network into the night at an event that’s anything but ordinary.

International Day is where the Power of Access becomes real. Each year, women-owned businesses and multinational buyers from around the world come together for a focused day of networking, curated matchmaking, and conversations that open doors across borders and industries. Held alongside the WBENC National Conference, International Day gives participants a unique opportunity to tap into two powerful business convenings in one week — maximizing visibility, strengthening international relationships, and accelerating access to global opportunities. Whether you’re a business owner looking to expand globally or a buyer seeking qualified suppliers prepared to compete, International Day is a gateway to a global network built for real business. Learn more at events.weconnectinternational.org/id2026

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
• Location: The Salt Palace Convention Center
• Audience: Women-owned businesses, corporate member buyers, government representatives, and global industry leaders
• Website: events.weconnectinternational.org/id2026 
• Contact Information: events@weconnectinternational.org

Note: This is a separate event from the WBENC National Conference and has a separate registration. Learn more about International Day here.

WBENC is a leader in creating opportunities for meaningful, real CONNECTIONS that drive increased business impact and growth. The Connections Journey weaves throughout the WBENC Conference experience.

Collegiate Accelerator Pitch Competition

The WBENC Collegiate Accelerator (CA) is a cohort-based, multifaceted program designed to empower, inform, and inspire emerging entrepreneurs as they establish and grow their startup ventures and small businesses. WBENC is proud to invest in the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and women-owned businesses through the support of WBENC Corporate and Government Members.

Join the live audience to cheer on the finalists as they deliver polished pitches that highlight their vision, traction, and potential to a panel of judges in the Final Round of the Collegiate Accelerator Pitch Competition. Their journey to the WBENC National Conference represents months of dedication as founders engaged in a four-week educational series focused on the fundamentals of growth for early-stage entrepreneurs, guided by subject matter experts from across the WBENC network. This series culminated in a competitive Pitch Competition Semi‑Final Round, where the top ventures earned the opportunity to advance as finalists. Now, these founders are ready to share their stories, celebrate their progress, and compete for micro-seed funding that will help take their businesses to the next level.

Thursday, July 18 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM

Women Owned is a dynamic initiative fueled by the powerhouse collaboration between WBENC and WEConnect International. Together, we’re sparking a movement of support for women-led businesses. We’re not just talking about it; we’re taking action! We’re here to back female entrepreneurs and everyone who recognizes their value. Join us in spreading the word about the ‘why,’ ‘where,’ and ‘how’ of buying Women Owned.

In Salt Lake City, Women Owned will activate on the Expo floor with Demo Stations from Women Owned brands, and with themed mini Women Owned Pop Up shops during each evening event.

At the Demo Stations you can expect demos, samples and products available for sale from amazing Women Owned brands.

At the Pop Up Shop you can expect a variety of exciting products just waiting to go home with you. Get ready to invest in women and #BuyWomenOwned!

Women Owned Pop Up Shops will take place throughout the week’s Evening Events.  NEW this year! Each Pop Up Shop evening will have it’s own theme!

• Monday: Trailblazers Market: Step into an outdoor‑inspired shopping market where active‑lifestyle brands and nature‑loving makers set up camp. Vendors will help attendees explore, recharge, and gear up for their next big journey!
• Tuesday: “The Bee State Bazaar” – Fan Favorites for Everyone! Buzz into the most eclectic marketplace of the week—packed with crowd‑pleasers, sweet surprises, and something for every shopper. It’s all the buzz, all night long, and you’ll be right at the center of the hive!
• Wednesday: The Book Nook Marketplace: A charming, library‑themed Pop Up Shop filled with smart, stylish, and story‑inspired finds. Vendors become part of the ultimate book‑club‑meets‑boutique experience—where shoppers wander, discover, and leave a little wiser.

Women Owned Demo Stations will take place during the Expo

• Wednesday, June 17 | 8:00 am – 12:00 PM MT
• Thursday, June 18 | 8:00 – 12:00 PM MT

Questions? Please email womenowned@wbenc.org.

The WBENC Collegiate Accelerator (CA) is a cohort-based, multifaceted program designed to empower, inform, and inspire emerging entrepreneurs as they establish and grow their startup ventures and small businesses. WBENC is proud to invest in the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and women-owned businesses through the support of WBENC Corporate and Government Members.

Collegiate Accelerator Pitch Competition

Thursday, June 18 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM

Come support and get inspired by the WBENC Collegiate Accelerator cohort as they pitch their businesses!

Collegiate Accelerator Interactive Showcase

Visit the Collegiate Accelerator Interactive Showcase on the Expo floor to connect directly with the 2026 CA cohort of ambitious, budding entrepreneurs as they debut their early-stage startup ventures and small businesses. Learn firsthand how bold innovation and forward-thinking ideas are shaping the next generation of founders and strengthening the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.   

Collegiate Accelerator Interactive Showcase will be held during Open Expo hours.

• Wednesday, June 17 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Thursday, June 18 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Learn more