2024 FAQs

The WBENC National Conference is not just an event – it’s an experience designed exclusively for women business owners. Picture this: a dynamic gathering in the heart of Denver, Colorado, where Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs), top-tier executives from Fortune 500 giants and U.S. Government officials, and representatives from organizations sharing our vision for expanding women’s business opportunities, all come together for four days of unparalleled programming.

Here’s a taste of what awaits you: an Expo bustling with 300+ exhibitors, providing a showcase of innovation and potential collaborations. Engaging Meet & Greets offer a chance to forge meaningful connections, while thought-provoking lectures and presentations from today’s brightest minds will inspire and empower. But that’s not all! Dive into interactive sessions tailored to your interests and wrap up the day with vibrant networking receptions.

This is your moment to be part of a revolution, to connect, learn, and grow. The WBENC National Conference is where opportunities flourish, and where the future of women-led businesses takes center stage.

The conference starts with onsite registration, exhibitor move-in and pre-conference gathering for select groups, beginning on Tuesday, March 19, and ending on Friday, March 22. See the full schedule here.

Conference hotel and events will take place at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, CO. The address is:

6700 N Gaylord Rockies Blvd
Aurora, CO 80019

Absolutely everyone is invited to be a part of this monumental event! The National Conference is a vibrant gathering welcoming a diverse range of attendees. From powerhouse WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) to esteemed WBENC National Corporate and Government Members, as well as the dynamic Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs) and their Corporate and Government Members – the stage is set for collaboration and growth.

But that’s not all! We extend our warm embrace to non-certified business owners who are eager to be part of this movement. For buyers and procurement representatives seeking new avenues of opportunity, this event is your goldmine. Supplier diversity professionals, federal, state, and local government officials – your presence adds depth and perspective to our collective journey.

And let’s not forget our global friends! We’re excited to extend a hearty welcome to international women business owners certified by WEConnect International affiliate. The more, the merrier!

This is a celebration of diversity, innovation, and empowerment. Join us and let’s shape the future together!

You will connect with women-owned businesses and Fortune 500 companies that are industry leaders in healthcare, travel and logistics, food and beverage, energy, retail, transportation, telecommunications, finance, banking, office supplies, consumer-packaged goods, and more, to name a few, as well as federal, state and local government agencies.

You can review the WBENC Corporate Member list here.

The WBENC National Conference is expected to draw more than 4,500 attendees and more than 300 exhibitors including Fortune 500 companies and America’s leading Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) as well as federal, state and local government agencies.

No, the full attendee list is not published due to privacy policies and risk of scams. However, a full exhibitor list will be published and regularly updated on the conference website. Attendees can also check in on the WBENC Mobile App once the app is available. In addition, WBENC-Certified WBEs and Corporate Members can utilize WBENCLink2.0 to look up contact information for individuals within the network.

NOTE: If you receive a solicitation from an organization claiming to provide or sell the attendee list, it is a scam. Read more about these type of scams here.

The WBENC Expo stands as a dynamic tradeshow uniting esteemed Corporate Member exhibitors with certified WBEs from both WBENC and WEConnect. This premier event provides a distinguished platform for networking within the WBENC network, offering a strategic opportunity to explore potential avenues for business collaboration. Embrace this occasion to cultivate meaningful connections and unlock new prospects for mutual growth and success.

The WBENC Expo will be organized according to industry groups and will feature the following industry clusters:

• Automotive
• Chemical
• Energy
• Financial Services
• Food & Beverage
• Global Trade
• Healthcare
• Insurance
• Manufacturing & Construction
• Professional & Technical Services
• Retail
• Technology
• Travel, Arts & Entertainment
• Utilities

Ultimately you will find businesses from every industry across the Expo. The industry clusters will feature:

• Automotive
• Chemical
• Energy
• Financial Services
• Food & Beverage
• Global Trade
• Healthcare
• Insurance
• Manufacturing & Construction
• Professional & Technical Services
• Retail
• Technology
• Travel, Arts & Entertainment
• Utilities

If you are exhibiting and do not fit neatly into one of the industries listed, please identify the closest fit for your company.

Yes! Make sure to join us for one of our virtual orientations leading up to the event. During the orientation, we’ll take everyone through the event design and answer any questions. It is a must for first-time attendees and is designed to assist all attendees in making the most out of their investment in the conference.

In addition, as the event approaches you will find additional resources available for download from the event website and mobile app.

ADA Accessibility

Throughout the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center all interior and exterior public spaces (each lobby, restaurant, Convention Center, etc.) are accessible to guests with disabilities. Gaylord STARS are also available to assist guests with disabilities when necessary.

Wheelchairs and Electric Scooters
Aspen Medical (303-455-4225) and Mobility 4 America (303-394-9355) are two providers of wheelchairs and electric scooters. Guests are able to call either company to reserve wheelchairs and/or scooters. The companies will deliver them to the Gaylord.

The daily rate for wheelchairs is $20, and the daily rate for electric scooters is $50. Both wheelchairs and electric scooters can be delivered to guest rooms for a $10 charge.

If you require mobility assistance it is recommended that you reserve your wheelchair or electric scooter at least one month prior to the event. If you arrive after 7pm it is recommended that you arrange for Aspen Medical or Mobility 4 America Services to coordinate with the hotel front desk so that your scooter will be available for pickup upon arrival.

Guest Room Accommodations
Guests with disabilities can relax and enjoy the luxury, comfort and modern conveniences of Gaylord’s guest rooms and suites. A warm, inviting atmosphere, combined with enticing amenities and superior service, will make our property the home-away-from-home you desire. Guest room accommodations for those with disabilities include:

Accessible Vanities
Adjustable Height Hand-Held Shower Wand
Alarm Clock Telephone Ringers
Bathtub Grab Rails
Bathtub Seat
Closed Caption TV
Deadbolts on Guest Room and Suites Doors
Electronic Room Key
Flashing Door Knockers
Guest Room and Suites Doors Self-Closing
Guests in mobility-accessible rooms may inquire about lowering the bed height
Hearing Accessible Rooms and/or Kits
Lever Handles on Guest Room Doors
Lowered Deadbolts on Guest Room Doors
Lowered Electrical Outlets
Lowered Night Guards on Guest Room Doors
Lowered Viewports in Guest Room Doors
Mobility accessible rooms
Non-slip Grab Rails in the Bathroom
Roll-in Shower
Safety Chains and/or Latches on Guest Doors
TTY/TTD Compatible
Toilet Seat at Wheelchair Height – Toilet for Disabled
Viewports in Guest Room and Suites Doors

If you have any additional questions, please reach out to wbenccustsvc@wbenc.org.

Meet & Greets are structured roundtable discussions that offer WBEs a unique opportunity to engage with key purchasing decision-makers representing major corporations and government agencies. This platform facilitates meaningful interactions and opens doors for potential business collaborations.

WBENC will host one (1) Meet & Greet session during the conference: Thursday, March 21, from 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM. No other programming will be offered during these times.

This session will have 25-minute rounds where the host Corporate Member and the WBEs seated at their table will use the time to introduce themselves and their companies. Subject to availability, WBEs will be able to select a seat at a table of their choice for each round.

Sessions are open to all attendees of the Conference that are either WBENC or WEConnect-Certified.

No, there will not be 1:1 MatchMaker meetings. WBENC will continue the powerful approach to facilitating connections throughout the Conference, including Meet & Greet roundtable connections, an enhanced RPO networking opportunity and ample opportunities to connect via the Open Expo and Industry Lab educational sessions and panels.

Friday’s curated events with America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises will include a “By Invitation” Match & Meet. Click here to learn more about how invitations will work to the Friday curated events. 

The recommended attire for all conference activities during business hours is business casual.

The dress code changes for the evening events:

• Tuesday, March 19 Evening Event is business casual and make sure to wear your coolest sneakers
• Wednesday, March 20 Evening Event is business casual
• Thursday, March 21 Reception & Celebration is themed for ski-lodge attire
• Friday, March 22 VIP Evening event is themed 1920’s cocktail attire

Email us at Press@wbenc.org.

Our distinguished lineup of speakers comprises nationally renowned experts in pivotal subjects spanning business, finance, and current industry trends. Alongside them, high-ranking executives from prominent corporations, who deeply appreciate the pivotal role of women in business, will grace the event.  Accomplished women business owners, celebrated for their noteworthy achievements, have been extended invitations to not only share their invaluable insights in education sessions and panels but also to lead engaging interactive programming activities. This diverse array of thought leaders promises a rich and insightful conference experience.

The official host hotel is the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center

We accept speaker/instructor proposals on a rolling basis. If you have the experience and subject matter expertise to help women entrepreneurs or the supplier diversity community, we encourage you to apply. Apply here to become a speaker.

The National Conference presents an unsurpassed opportunity to showcase your brand, identify potential suppliers or new purchasers, and expand your network. This is THE moment of the year for your business to engage face-to-face with over 4,500 influential women business owners, coveted government agencies, and Fortune 500 powerhouses, all eager to collaborate. Our exhibitor packages not only secure your booth space but also grant you Full Conference Passes, ensuring you don’t miss out on any crucial connections and insights. Don’t just attend, thrive!

• WBENC Corporate or Government Members
• WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs)
• WEConnect-Certified Women’s Business Enterprises
• WBENC Government Members and Nonprofits affiliated with WBENC
• Official media sponsors designated by WBENC

Note: WBENC reserves the right to approve exhibitor status for all companies. Organizations that register without meeting the above stipulations will not be allowed to exhibit. Fees will not be refunded.

Although the impact may vary for each company, the connections forged and potential opportunities uncovered at the conference possess remarkable potential to drive sustained growth in both business and supplier diversity programs long after the event concludes.

In addition, WBENC leaves no stone unturned in guaranteeing exhibitors robust booth traffic and invaluable access to potential business partners. This commitment is exemplified through our meticulously crafted marketing plan, designed to elevate conference awareness and participation. This plan encompasses:

• Premier Website Exposure: Gain prime visibility starting January 2024, ensuring your presence is showcased to a global audience hungry for innovative partnerships.
• Maximized Outreach Potential: Leverage our extensive reach through WBENC.org and targeted email campaigns, connecting with over 60,000 influential contacts who are primed for collaboration.
• Strategic Mobile App Inclusion: Secure your spot in the WBENC Mobile App and Exhibitor Directory, placing your brand directly in the hands of engaged conference attendees seeking new opportunities.
• Social Media Dominance: Ignite a social media frenzy across platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, amplifying your impact and generating buzz around your offerings.
• Powerful Media Collaborations: Benefit from strategic advertising placements and feature articles in collaboration with our esteemed WBENC Media Partners, ensuring your message resonates with a wider audience.
• Tailored Marketing Arsenal: Access a treasure trove of marketing materials and dynamic social media content designed to enhance your visibility and leave a lasting impression on potential partners.

If your WBENC-Certified business has been certified as a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), the marketing opportunities for your business will extend to reach the government representatives present. If you are not WBENC-WOSB-Certified, visit our website to learn more about how you can apply.

Learn more about exhibitor packages available here. There is a 10×10 WBE Exhibitor Package, a 10×10 Corporate Member Exhibitor Package, and a 10×10 Government and Nonprofit Exhibitor Package.

Each exhibitor package will include Full Conference Passes (quantity depends on package type), a 10 x 10 booth, 1 skirted table, 2 chairs, 1 waste basket, 7 x 44” sign with name and booth number on it, grey booth carpeting, and a listing in the online exhibitor directory.

Yes, exhibitors may purchase up to three (3) additional Full Conference Passes at a discounted rate of $649 each. These additional passes are available for purchase only through the online registration process and as available.

NOTE: All exhibitor transactions are final in accordance with the WBENC no refund policy.

If you register before January 23, you will receive a correspondence about your booth placement during the month of February.

If you purchase a booth after January 23, you will receive a correspondence within 12 business days of the date you registered.

The booth assignment process for general exhibitors will not begin until February 1.

Booth position on the Expo floor is determined by preferences indicated during registration.

When registering you will have the opportunity to identify your top 2 preferred industry areas to be located within the Expo. WBENC will work to place exhibitors according to their preferences, however preferred placement is not guaranteed.

Exhibitors also have the opportunity to identify both competitors and collaborators. WBENC will work to respectively place exhibitors according to this input, however specific placement is not guaranteed.

WBENC will strive to place all exhibitors according to their preferences but cannot guarantee placement.

When you purchase your booth package you will be able to identify your top 2 industry centers on the floor. The WBENC team will work to place everyone in their preferred centers, but no guarantees can be made.

A WBENC Turnkey Booth Package is a pre-designed booth which will be set-up and ready for you to access beginning Tuesday, March 19, in the afternoon. All you have to do is arrive with your collateral and team and be ready to network. Choose from either a standard graphics package which features your company’s logo and the 2024 WBENC National Conference branding, or for an additional fee, you can secure fully custom graphics.

You can purchase your Turnkey Booth add on through your Exhibitor Dashboard after you purchase your exhibitor package.

Yes, for an additional fee you can work with one of our recommended vendors to design fully custom graphics.

Yes, you are required to staff your booth during the “Open Expo” hours on Wednesday and Thursday.

• Wednesday, March 20 | 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm MT
• Thursday, March 21 | 8:30 am – 12:30 pm MT

No. Only conference Co-Chairs, featured sponsors and reception/meal function sponsors have reserved tables.

Food and beverage catering services are provided by Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center.

The hotel is the only licensed authority to sell and serve liquor for consumption on the premises. Law requires persons to be a minimum of 21 years of age to consume alcoholic beverages. The hotel reserves the right to refuse alcohol service to anyone.

Sampling

• Any exhibitor who wishes to provide sample food or beverages that they normally produce in the ordinary course of their business is required to notify Gaylord Rockies, in writing, as to the nature of the proposed product sample. Items dispensed are limited to products manufactured, processed, or distributed by that exhibiting firm, must be directly related to the purpose of the show, and are dispensed in the contracted areas only. All sample items MUST receive prior approval and confirmation from Gaylord Rockies.

Traffic Promotor
Due to liability and legal restrictions, no outside food or beverages of any kind may be brought into the hotel by the customer, guests, exhibitors or other suppliers. Other food and/or beverage items used as traffic promoters (i.e. coffee, sodas, bottled water, popcorn, etc.) MUST be purchased from Gaylord Rockies.

Exhibitor Help Desk/Call Center:
301-306-4627

Hours of Operation:
9:00am – 5:00pm EST, Monday-Friday

Email:
exhibitorservices@hargroveinc.com

Exhibitors can also log into the Hargrove Exhibitor Portal through the Exhibitor Dashboard in MYS. Note: Exhibitors will not be able to order any items until they have received their booth assignment.

Your booth must be completely set-up by 5:00 pm MT on Tuesday, March 19. Please refer to the Exhibitor Kit through the Exhibitor Dashboard for more information.

On Wednesday, March 20, exhibitors will have access to the expo beginning at 12:30 pm MT.

On Thursday, March 21, exhibitors will have access beginning at 7:30 am MT.

You can begin to dismantle your booth at 12:30 pm MT on Thursday, March 21.

All exhibits MUST be dismantled, packed and Material Handling Agreements turned in by Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 6:00 pm MT. It is the sole responsibility of each exhibitor to have materials packed, identified, and cleared for shipment by that time.

Note: After 4:30 pm MT overtime rates apply

No, if you require any type of electricity in your booth you must purchase it through Exhibitor Services.

If you still have questions you can read through the Exhibitor Kit for more information. If you have questions, you can also reach out to Exhibitor Services for assistance.

Exhibitor Help Desk/Call Center:
301-306-4627

Hours of Operation:
9:00am – 5:00pm EST, M-F

Email:
exhibitorservices@hargroveinc.com

Unfortunately, there are active scammers. WBENC will not solicit information for exhibitor services or request that you take any other action related to the events unless the message comes directly from WBENC, our hotel management team, Trattativa Meetings & Events, Imagen or, our exhibit services provider, Hargrove, Inc.

Sponsoring is your golden ticket to unprecedented exposure! Picture this: your brand showcased in front of a dynamic audience of over 4,500 individuals. These attendees? They’re not just any crowd. We’re talking women business owners, powerhouse corporate executives, game-changing purchasing decision-makers, and influential representatives from government agencies and advocacy organizations.

As a sponsor, your brand gets the VIP treatment. From prime real estate on the conference website and mobile app, to prominent signage that can’t be missed. Plus, you’ll have an exclusive exhibitor booth, showcasing your brand to all who pass by. And let’s not forget the golden key – conference registrations to ensure you’re in the heart of the action.

In short, sponsoring isn’t just about supporting a great event; it’s about supercharging your brand’s visibility and influence.

Click here to learn how to become a sponsor.

The following entities are eligible to sponsor:

• WBENC National Corporate and Government Members
• WBENC-Certified WBEs
• WBENC Regional Partner Organizations
• WBENC National Strategic Partners, which includes a select group of approved nonprofit organizations and media entities

Note: WBENC reserves the right to approve all entities requesting to be a sponsor.

Absolutely! We’re thrilled to offer an exclusive opportunity for sponsors to enhance their conference experience. They can snag extra Full-Conference Registrations, as available, at an unbeatable price of just $649 each and score three more Day Passes for an incredible $325 each. These registrations guarantee access to every exciting event on the conference agenda tailored to their admission category.

Please contact Mia Delano, Vice President, Business Development & Engagement, WBENC, Vaughn Farris, Senior Director, Development & Engagement, or Andrea Marshall, Director, Business Development & Programs at the email below.

Email: valuedsponsors@wbenc.org

As a Sponsor Contact there are a few things you should know:

• As a Sponsor Contact, you are responsible for registering your corporation for the event. You’ll receive an email from Map Your Show (MYS) during the month of November. This email will include a link and login information to the Map Your Show Dashboard. From this dashboard, you will be able to access your booth assignment (once assigned), connect to exhibitor services, and register your individual attendees. This dashboard is your one-stop for conference coordination.
• Once given access to the Map Your Show Dashboard, you will need to update and adjust your Exhibitor Directory through the dashboard.
• When you go to register your individual attendees, you will first confirm yourself as the Sponsor Contact. The Sponsor Contact will then need to register each of the individuals using your Full-Conference Registrations or send the sharable registration invitation link to the additional registrants for them to complete.
• If you are completing your company’s registration, you will need each individual’s full name, company name, and email address as well as demographic information. Please note, if you, the sponsor contact, will also be attending the conference you must register yourself for one of the registrations (you will see two entries within the registration system for this person).
• If you need to make any changes to the registrations you already completed, you can log back in to make the adjustment any time before March 14, 2024 at 11:59 PM 
• Within the Dashboard you can add additional contacts for invoicing, marketing, and other roles.

Learn more about the cost to be an attendee here.

Companion Passes are available for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights for $150 each.

On the Exhibitor Dashboard, you can click on the Attendee Registration Tile which will take you to the Registration Dashboard. From this dashboard, you have the option to register your team members through the Team Registration link or individually.

If you choose to utilize the Team Registration link, you will be provided a link to share with other attendees on your team that can then fill out their own registration form. You will simply copy the URL, and then distribute it to your colleagues accordingly. If you choose to register someone individually, you will be required to provide their full name, company name, contact and demographic information.

All registration/ticket sales are final; no refunds will be issued. All exhibitor and sponsor package purchases are final and non-refundable.

Paid registrations may be transferred to another individual at your organization if you notify WBENC in writing by March 13, 2024. Please submit transfer requests through the following form: WBENC National Conference Substitution Requests (smartsheet.com)

Registrations cannot be transferred between events.

You can return to your Registration Dashboard (accessible through the Exhibitor Dashboard) to revise the registration.

Call the Maritz customer service team toll free at (864) 658-5681 for assistance with the online registration platform.

If you have questions about the overall event you can email wbenccustsvc@wbenc.org for assistance.

The registration desk will be open for badge pickup and customer support. Conference registration will not be available for purchase on site.

Onsite Registration Desk Hours:

• Tuesday, March 19 | 10 am – 5:30 pm MST
• Wednesday, March 20 | 8 am – 5:30 pm MST
• Thursday, March 21 | 8 am – 5 pm MST
• Friday, March 22 | 8 am – 12 pm MST

No, the Match & Meet invitation process is separate from the Luck of the Draw. The Match & Meet invitations are sent based on specific procurement needs of the Top Corporations sourcing opportunities.

Outside of those two events there is no additional programming.

Please book your stay for now with a Friday departure, then if you win you can add the Friday night onto your reservation.

Yes, if someone within the company wins but the ticket is better suited to be used by a more senior leader you can give your ticket to that person.

Now, you will receive one ticket for the entire day.

No, there is no additional cost for the ticket, it is a bonus add-on to your week!

Attendees must register prior to January 15^th. During the registration process there is a question asking if you would like to opt in. Make sure to say “yes” and note which of the Friday activities you are able to attend.

Your well-being is #1 priority for WBENC. This website will be updated with information about the plans for health and safety protocols for attendees, exhibitors and staff at the National Conference. At this time WBENC is monitoring the ever-changing status of the COVID-19 pandemic and making decisions accordingly. These protocols are subject to change based on a number of factors. WBENC is committed to keeping all attendees informed and updated as changes occur.  We will continue to update the page, so please check back for news and additional guidance as we refine our planning.