About this Event
The Women Who Launch, Lead, & Build a Legacy Summit hosted by the South Carolina Department of Commerce & the Greater Women's Business Council is a high-energy, purpose-driven platform designed to ignite leadership, elevate visibility, and celebrate women who build boldly. This dynamic gathering brings together entrepreneurs and professionals to connect, share, and grow through curated networking experiences, insightful sessions, and content that embodies both grit and grace.
From morning coffee to closing connections, the Summit is packed with inspiration, innovation, and intentional collaboration. Attendees will experience powerful keynotes, TED-style panels, a vibrant pop-up marketplace, and bold conversations on branding, technology, leadership, and legacy.
Every moment is designed to empower women to launch their vision, lead with confidence, and build a legacy that lasts. Through meaningful dialogue and strategic connection, we’re building a community that amplifies women’s voices, celebrates their journeys, and shapes the future of leadership across our state.
This is where women come to launch, lead, and light the way forward—with legacy at the center.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Check-In, Coffee & Pop-Up Marketplace
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:10 AM
Welcome and Opening Remarks
Host: Ron Harvey- Global Core Strategies and Consulting
🕑: 09:10 AM - 09:20 AM
Welcome Remarks
Host: Daniel Rickenmann, Mayor of Columbia, SC
🕑: 09:25 AM - 10:10 AM
Opening Keynote
Host: Ashely Teasdel- Deputy Secretary of Commerce
🕑: 10:10 AM - 10:40 AM
Power Tools: Women Who Launch, Lead, & Build
Host: Maitelyn Jones- GWBC
🕑: 10:40 AM - 11:00 AM
Networking Break
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
AI - Powered Growth: How Women Entrepreneurs Are Shaping the Future
Host: Jennifer Paradis- CEO, Signatures
🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
Lunch to Launch: Fueled by City of Columbia Office of Small Business
Host: Ayesha Driggers- COC Office of Business Opportunities
🕑: 12:45 PM - 01:30 PM
Fireside Chat - Built Bold: The Women Who Launch, Lead, & Build a Legacy
Host: Donna Brin- bFIVE 40J
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:15 PM
Behind the Bank Door: What Bankers Wish Entrepreneurs Knew
Host: JaNean Stubbs-Taylor- Optus Bank
🕑: 02:15 PM
Wrap - Up & Recognitions
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
701 Whaley, 701 Whaley Street, Columbia, United States
USD 81.88
