As excitement builds for the 2026 WBENC National Conference, happening next week in Salt Lake City, Utah, this year’s IMPACT theme sets the tone for a powerful and purpose-driven experience.
We are excited to share insights from our WBE Co-Chairs, a dynamic group of trailblazing women whose leadership, innovation, and vision are driving meaningful change across industries. These influential leaders embody the spirit of IMPACT, bringing both bold ideas and a deep commitment to empowering others to spark meaningful change.
Hear from our WBE Co-Chairs!
The ActOne Group
is on a mission is to become the business community’s global partner in providing forward-thinking talent and resource-management solutions. By leveraging the expertise of the various companies of the ActOne Group, their clients can access the powerful potential of today’s diverse global workforce. The ActOne Group empowers organizations through their core principles and unwavering belief that “The Worker is the Center of the Universe.” This philosophy lays the foundation for how all organizational decisions are made, and it drives the IMPACT and innovation ActOne Group brings to the business community.
Janice Bryant Howroyd, Founder and CEO, says, “WBENC is more than a certification; it’s a powerful network that amplifies the voices of women-owned businesses and drives meaningful progress. Together, we unlock opportunities, build partnerships, and inspire growth. The energy, collaboration, and innovation you’ll experience at this year’s conference will leave a lasting impact on your business and your future. Let’s unite in our shared mission to empower and uplift. I can’t wait to see you there!”
Learn more about ActOne Group
ALOM is a global supply chain management services provider that designs and executes highly tailored supply chain programs for leading brands across technology, healthcare, automotive, and other regulated industries. Its services include supply chain execution, light contract manufacturing, procurement, inventory management, fulfillment, and advanced 3PL+ lifecycle logistics solutions. By integrating technology, compliance, and operational expertise, ALOM helps companies bring products to market faster while maintaining strict quality and regulatory standards. Operating from 20 global locations, ALOM enables clients to scale efficiently, strengthen resilience, and deliver products reliably enhancing customer experience, protecting brand reputation, and driving sustainable economic growth.
When asked why it was so important to serve as a Co-Chair this year, President and CEO, Hannah Kain, responded, “With global supply chains in upheaval, it has never been more important to near-source. This is true both for corporate and for WBE supply chains. This conference supports near-sourcing and optimizing supply chains. ALOM loves serving the WBENC network with access to high-performing, innovative WBE suppliers and caring corporate customers. Our passion for the WBENC mission runs deep, and we’re honored to help amplify its impact by co-chairing this year’s conference and championing opportunities that strengthen every link in the supply chain.”
Learn more about ALOM
Ampcus is a global business, technology consulting, and staff augmentation firm. Ampcus helps commercial, government, and nonprofit organizations solve complex problems and launch big ideas. They provide innovative, cost effective, quality, and sustainable solutions and services across AI, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and risk management. With over 3,000 employees, 20 global offices, 18 U.S. offices, 2 Innovation Labs and 3 Security Operations Centers, Ampcus generates IMPACT! From strategy to execution, Ampcus leverages their certified processes, accelerators and frameworks, skilled resources and partnerships with leading technology and service providers to deliver added value on every engagement.
Ann Ramakumaran, CEO, shares, “I am honored to serve as Co-Chair for this year’s WBENC Annual Conference, a pivotal event that brings together diverse, visionary leaders from across industries. At Ampcus, we believe in the power of resilience and innovation, especially in advancing women-owned businesses. This conference exemplifies our collective commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities through opportunity, collaboration, and integrity. I look forward to engaging with our customers, prospective customers, fellow entrepreneurs and partners as we share insights and solutions to shape the future of business together.”
Learn more about Ampcus
At Kolar Design and KXInnovations, the focus is on creating environments that people love and helping organizations transform their real estate by combining data analytics with human insight to drive measurable results. Kolar Design harnesses the power of design to change lives. At KXInnovations, that impact is extended through an all-in-one space experience platform where data analytics meets human insights, designed for life. Together, this allows a look beyond what is happening in a space to understand why it’s happening, and translate that into more informed, strategic decisions.
Kelly Kolar, President and Founder, states, “I’m honored to serve as a Co-Chair for the 2026 National Conference.
WBENC has created a powerful platform for connection, visibility, and growth for women-owned businesses. As we look ahead, I’m excited about continuing to expand what impact looks like, not just in terms of access, but in terms of scale, influence, and long-term business value.”
Learn more about Kolar Design
Rose International is a people-first workforce solutions company helping organizations navigate change, find exceptional talent and build stronger teams. For 30+ years, they have believed that when people are given the opportunity to succeed, businesses and communities thrive.
Rose International proudly serve 200+ Fortune 500 clients, partnering with them to solve complex workforce challenges and unlock growth. With a global team spanning the U.S., Canada and India, 55% of whom are women, Rose generates $1.4 billion in economic impact while delivering innovative staffing and total talent solutions.
Their mission is simple: create opportunities, empower talent and help organizations move forward with confidence.
Sue Bhatia, Founder and Chairwoman, remarks, “Serving as Co-Chair of the National Conference is deeply meaningful to me because WBENC represents the power of community, opportunity and women lifting each other up. Rose International has proudly attended every conference since earning our certification, and each year we see firsthand how these connections spark real growth and lasting partnerships.
The energy of the Expo, the insights from the programming and the relationships built here create incredible momentum for women-owned businesses. I encourage everyone to join us in Salt Lake City; come ready to connect, collaborate and be inspired by what we can achieve together.
As we look ahead, my focus is simple. Continue to create opportunities, strengthen partnerships and help more businesses scale with confidence. Because when one business grows, it creates a ripple effect. And together, that impact is limitless.”
Learn more about Rose International
SHI International Corp. is a global IT solutions provider that drives economic growth by helping organizations modernize, secure, and optimize their technology investments. Through software, hardware, cloud, security, and lifecycle services, SHI enables enterprises to operate more efficiently, scale responsibly, and innovate faster. As a people‑centric, privately held company, SHI creates high‑value jobs, strengthens supplier ecosystems, and accelerates digital transformation that delivers measurable business, community, and sustainability impact worldwide.
Kendra Burris-Austin, AVP, Business Development, shares “Co‑sponsoring the WBENC Conference is not about optics—it’s about access. It places SHI at the center of innovation, diverse supplier growth, and enterprise customers who are serious about building resilient, future‑ready supply chains. For attendees, WBENC is where real connections turn into real business—new partners, new markets, and ideas that can be deployed immediately.”
Learn more about SHI International Corp.
Together, their insights highlight what IMPACT truly means—leading with purpose, lifting others as you rise, and creating pathways for lasting success. It’s this shared vision that makes the WBENC National Conference the place to be, building meaningful connections and serving as a catalyst for growth.
As we look ahead to an energizing week in Salt Lake City, attendees can expect invaluable networking, impactful business development opportunities, and inspiring learning experiences at every turn. The momentum is building, and the stage is set for connection, collaboration, and growth. We can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make!
