SBDC Invites Attendees to “Flip the Script” at Annual Women’s Business Symposium

For the past 10 years, the Idaho Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has invited women from across southern Idaho to learn, network and grow at the annual Women’s Business Symposium. Hosted by the Pocatello (Region 5) SBDC, the event has been a sell-out for the past several years, this year being no exception. “It’s an exhilarating event to produce and attend,” said Ann Swanson, Region 5 SBDC Director. “With over 200 women each year, it is rewarding to watch local business women learn and connect.” opportunities the SBDC offers. “The Women’s Symposium was fantastic! It flowed so well and the breakouts were great,” said Carin Tatom, event attendee and Pocatello Chubbuck Chamber Event Coordinator. “I was so glad my sister was able to be there. It gave her some good ideas for her new company – especially funding options. It was a great day!”

The theme of this year’s event was “Flip the Script”, inviting participants to look at their lives and careers from a new perspective.

The theme also represented a “flip” in the normal event schedule with the addition of a student pitch competition. With the help of the Idaho State University College of Business, entrepreneurs from Idaho State University and University of Idaho competed for $15,000 in prizes. The first prize winner was Claire Smedley with the John Smedley School of Music.

In addition to being able to vote on the winners of the pitch competition, attendees spent the day in workshops based on their interests and career type. There was also a strong networking aspect, with plenty of time to brainstorm and connect with other attendees, as well as learn about the no-cost consulting

Next year’s event has been set for April 11th at the Shoshone-Bannock Hotel and Event Center in Fort Hall, ID. Interested in attending or learning about sponsorship opportunities? Contact Ann at swanann@ isu.edu, or (208) 282-4402.