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    • Thu, April 02, 2026
    • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Ross Auditorium at Franklin University- 301 E. Rich S Columbus, OH 43215 United States
    Registration is closed


    Scale Smart: Unlocking Growth Through National Certifications

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT HAS CLOSED. THERE ARE A LIMITED AMOUNT OF TICKETS AVAILABLE.

    Please email arien@nawbocolumbusohio.com to attend.

    Join NAWBO Columbus for an insightful luncheon designed to demystify the national certification landscape and provide a clear roadmap for scaling your business. This session focuses on the two premier national certifications: the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). 

    Attendees will learn what these certifications entail, how to prepare their businesses to be "certification ready," and the tangible benefits these credentials unlock for long-term growth. We will feature a dynamic panel with representatives from both WBENC and NMSDC, alongside a certified NAWBO member who will share their firsthand experience navigating the process and the impact it has had on their business success

    Join us for: 

    • Deep Dive into WBENC & NMSDC: Understand the requirements and the rigorous vetting process used by these "gold standard" organizations.
    • Certification Readiness: Learn how to organize your documentation—including financial statements, tax returns, and governing documents—to ensure a smooth application process.
    • The Benefits of Being Certified: Explore how certification provides access to supplier diversity executives at hundreds of major U.S. corporations and government entities.
    • Real-World Success Stories: Hear from a fellow NAWBO member about leveraging certification to gain credibility, visibility, and new revenue streams.
    • Expert Networking: During the networking portion, procurement professionals will be seated at select tables to provide direct insights into how corporations use these certifications to find diverse suppliers


    Meet our moderator: MONICA L. WOMACK, MPA, MLW SOLUTIONS

    Monica L. Womack, MPA, is the Founder and CEO of MLW Solutions LLC, a strategic advisory firm focused on strengthening women-owned businesses and advancing sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystems. With more than two decades of leadership in economic and business development, Monica is known for helping organizations and entrepreneurs move from vision to infrastructure by building strong systems, strategic partnerships, and pathways to capital and contracting opportunities.

    Prior to launching MLW Solutions, Monica served as Chief of Ohio’s Minority Business Development Division, where she led transformative efforts that increased the number of certified businesses and expanded access to resources and technical assistance across the state.

    Through MLW Solutions, she provides strategic advisement, workshops, and ecosystem alignment to help women entrepreneurs scale sustainably and confidently. Monica is a recognized champion for inclusive economic growth and has received numerous honors for her leadership and impact.

    MEET OUR Panelists: Michele Uber,  QuickStitch Plus

    Michele Uber is the founder and driving force behind QuickStitch Plus, a premier promotional products and logo apparel company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. With nearly three decades of industry experience, she has built a reputation for operational excellence and strategic growth across screen printing, embroidery, digital printing, and company store programs. Michele also leads the company’s strategic initiatives through its Managed Apparel Program (MAP) and Managed Brand Assets (MBA) solutions, helping organizations streamline how they source, manage, and distribute branded merchandise while maintaining brand consistency and control. Under her leadership, QuickStitch Plus continues to expand its capabilities, investing in advanced equipment and a new facility to support sustained growth and innovation. Click HERE to read Michele's full bio.

    Colleen Rudisell, Director of Certification and Outreach, WBEC ORV

    As Director of Certification and Outreach, Colleen plays a key role at WBECORV in strengthening and optimizing the certification process while supporting the organization’s continued growth. Under her leadership, the RPO program has surpassed 1,000 certified Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) and more than 400 Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) in 2025. Passionate about building inclusive supplier networks and empowering women entrepreneurs, Colleen focuses on expanding access to certification, fostering strategic partnerships, and creating meaningful economic opportunities for women-owned businesses. 

    George R. Simms, LSSBB, M.S.Pet.E, Ohio Minority Supplier Development CounciL

    George enables organizations and businesses to achieve the impossible. His Lean Six Sigma and Innovation Expertise, Business Acumen, and StrengthFinder leadership themes (Belief, Competition, Activator, Strategic, and Futuristic) allow him to see possibilities and achieve results that others deem impossible.

    Over the past 35+ years, 28 years with Procter and Gamble, George has led manufacturing and organization transformations across the globe that have enabled businesses to significantly increase Sales and Profit while dramatically improving Cash Flow. As the Global Innovation Leader for a $10B business, he increased the innovation portfolio sales and profitability by 25% and 30%, respectively.

    His guiding mission is to eliminate economic injustice through operational excellence.

    George is the President and CEO of the Ohio Minority Supplier Development Council. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA and a Masters of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA. He is a Certified Lean Six Sigma BlAck Belt.

    Registration closes Friday, March 27th at 5pm. 

    To view boxed lunch choices click HERE

    Sponsored By:



    Event Exhibitors





    • Thu, April 09, 2026
    • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    • Amelita Mirolo Barn, 4395 Carriage Hill Ln, Upper Arlington, OH 43220
    Register



    Join us for a casual evening of women, wine and connection!

    Women, Wisdom & Wine: The Art of the "Out of Office"

    Get ready to pour a glass of inspiration! NAWBO Columbus is thrilled to invite you to our highly anticipated biannual signature recruitment event—Women, Wisdom & Wine! ✨

    This isn't just another networking mixer; it’s an unforgettable evening designed to connect you with one of the top women-in-business groups in the country. Whether you’re a long-time member or curious about joining our vibrant community, this is your chance to discover how the power of NAWBO can empower your entrepreneurial journey.

    As women business owners, we are experts at "doing it all," but when was the last time you truly stepped away? This year, our Wisdom segment focuses on the essential cycle of Rest, Reset, and Ritual.

    We’re diving deep into three high-impact areas with actionable takeaways and networking prompts:
    • The Red Flags: Recognizing the burnout signs that scream you need a vacation.
    • The Hand-Off: Practical strategies for preparing your team to thrive while you're away.
    • The Mental Shift: How to prep yourself to actually disconnect and stay OOO.

    Join us to hear firsthand from members about the incredible value of our Columbus Chapter—one of the largest in the nation—and learn how to grow your business without losing your peace.

    For every guest a member & partner brings they will be entered into a drawing for a complimentary event registration!

    Registration includes: 2 glasses of wine and light bites.

    Registration Closes Monday, April 6th.

    ✨ Interested in Membership? Join and Save!

    NAWBO has been powering the dreams of women business owners since 1975 and new Basic and Premier members save $75 off March 1st-April 30th (in honor of NAWBO’s founding year—1975)!
      Learn more and join at: https://nawbo.org/membership

    Click HERE for Sponsorship Opportunities!

    NAWBO Columbus is proud to support Women Business Owners! Women, Wisdom & Wine features women owned wine, food and exhibitors.
    Event Partners



    Exhibitors


    Sponsors




    NAWBO Columbus is proud to support women owned businesses! 



    • Thu, April 16, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
    • Zoom
    Register


    Our Member Chat is an opportunity for all members and those interested in membership to have a virtual meet and greet with the NAWBO Columbus VP of Membership, Alison Forche and former VP of Roundtables, Molly Kane. 

    Bring your questions, connect and learn more about NAWBO membership and roundtables. 

    Once registered, the zoom link will be sent with your confirmation email.

    • Fri, April 17, 2026
    • 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
    • Virtual
    Register


    NAWBO Boost- Discover the Blueprint of YOU: Your Human Design Advantage

    CONNECT WITH NAWBO COLUMBUS & BOOST YOUR BUSINESS!

    What if your next breakthrough — personally or professionally — wasn’t about doing more, but about aligning more?

    You’ve built success by leading well, showing up consistently, and navigating challenges with strength. But even the most capable women can feel it when something shifts… when the old strategies feel heavier, when the rhythm that once worked no longer fits, and when you sense you’re meant for a more aligned way of operating.

    This Boost participants into a transformative conversation about Human Design — an energetic framework that reveals how you’re UNIQUELY wired to create, connect, make decisions, and use your energy with clarity and more ease… yes, it’s possible.

    Instead of forcing strategies that drain you, Human Design helps you distinguish between what’s truly yours and what’s conditioning… the expectations you’ve carried, the pressure you’ve endured, and the ways you’ve adapted to environments that weren’t built for your design.

    Join us To:

    • Understand how they are naturally designed to operate
    • Recognize aligned decision-making versus overthinking
    • Identify where energy is being wasted — and where it wants to flow
    • Build businesses, careers, and lives that feel authentic instead of exhausting
    • Shift from strain into ease by honoring their innate wiring

    Meet our Facilitator: Karen Baldridge, Founder, The Experience Project 

    Karen Baldridge is the founder of The Experience Project. After a career in public relations and client-facing leadership, she realized she was living a version of success that no longer aligned with who she was becoming. Determined to pivot toward a more purpose‑filled career, She embraced what she now calls the “flow of her design.” She blended her love of inspiring, meaningful growth oriented experiences and lifestyle events with Human Design principles to help others realign their lives from the inside out—just as she has.

    “Purpose isn’t what you do—it’s what happens to the people around you when you do what you’re designed to do.”

    ABOUT BOOST: 

    Each month a NAWBO member or partner will facilitate and share an area of expertise. Attendees will have the opportunity to introduce themselves learn from our facilitator and bring business challenges to the group. Boost allows for a small-group setting, connection, discussion and the opportunity to work ON your business.

    Join whenever you are able. 

    • Non-members may attend up to two times before deciding if NAWBO is the right community for you.
    • Once registered the Zoom link will be sent in a registration confirmation email.
    • Are you a subject matter expert interested in facilitating a NAWBO Boost? Members and Partners complete the form HERE
    • Tue, April 21, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
    • Zoom
    Register


    Our Member Orientation is an opportunity for all members and those interested in membership to meet other NAWBO members as well as our board members and NAWBO Columbus Staff. During the meeting you will learn how to best utilize your membership and how to take advantage of all of the value and benefits that NAWBO Columbus provides.

    Additionally, you will be introduced to the board of directors, learn how to navigate the website and sign up for programs and events, and discuss how you can get involved in a committee!

    Once registered, the zoom link will be sent with your confirmation email.


    • Thu, April 30, 2026
    • 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
    • Shadowbox Live, 503 S Front St. Ste 260 Columbus, OH 43215
    Register


    connect with the NAWBO Columbus Community!

    Join NAWBO Columbus and women-owned Shadowbox Live to celebrate the trailblazers and powerhouses who shattered ceilings and rewrote the rules of rock and roll. Leather and Lace shines a musical spotlight on 20 fearless female artists whose voices, talent, and unrelenting spirit transformed not just music—but the entire industry.

    From iconic anthems to revolutionary performances, this show honors the bold women who inspired generations, broke barriers, and continue to shape the soundtrack of our lives. This is a fierce, electrifying music tribute to their legacy—raw, unapologetic, and utterly unforgettable.

    Special ticket pricing for this event is $40 for members and $50 for guests. Registrants will be seated together in a reserved block in tier C.

    Registration closes April 16th (2 weeks prior to the event).


    Event Details: The show is 120 Minutes with one intermission | Want the full menu? Arrive no later 30 minutes before the show.

    For the Leather and Lace: A Music Tribute to the Women of Rock Spotify Playlist click HERE

    Click HERE for more on Shadowbox Live.

    • Tue, May 12, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Virtual
    Register


    WBE Training 

    Learn how to become a certified woman-owned business and gain access to government and corporate contracts and capital.

    About this event:

    Learn how contracts can significantly add to your company's sales volume and how to leverage diversity certifications to acquire contracts.

    In this webinar, we will discuss:

    • Major certifications available to Ohio-based businesses (including MBE, WBE, EDGE, DGE and SBA certifications)
    • Certifying agencies
    • Basic eligibility requirements of each certification
    • How to use certifications as a competitive advantage


    "There is opportunity with no limit for success for women business owners!" ~ Merry Korn, President & CEO,  Pearl Interactive Network.

    Watch Merry's video to learn more on certifications and contract opportunities and advice she has for WBOs.




    "Share your certifications and credentials to let your client know that you have made an investment in your company  and the market that you serve." ~ Theresa Harris, President & CEO, TMH Solutions 

    Watch Theresa's video for her tips on government and corporate contracts.


    Seats are limited. Register for this event to reserve your spot. Feel free to email anna@aventienterprises.com with any questions. We look forward to meeting you!

    Hosted by NAWBO Columbus & Presented by Aventi Enterprises


    • Tue, May 12, 2026
    • 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    Register




    Join NAWBO Columbus at the Columbus Museum of Art on Tuesday, May 12th, for an evening dedicated to excellence, impact, and inspiration as we shine a spotlight on the trailblazing women business owners of Central Ohio at the 2026 NAWBO Columbus Visionary Awards: Sparkles & Sneaker Gala.


    These awards honor incredible leaders who aren't just excelling in their industries—they are driving change in their industries and making our community a stronger place for everyone.


    It’s going to be a high-energy, meaningful night of celebration. In the spirit of moving forward and breaking barriers, we’re keeping it stylish and spirited—yes, we’re wearing sneakers with our sparkle!


    Come for the inspiration, stay for the connection, and help us celebrate the women shaping the future of Columbus.


    Join us to celebrate the 2026 Nominees and celebrate women owned!

    Meet our 2026 Visionary Honoree

    Krista Guagenti, Founder & Visionary, Panacea Luxury Spa Boutique


    Join us to honor the 2026 Nominees and celebrate Advocates, Allies and Champions of Women Owned Businesses! 

    We can't wait to recognize those who champion women business owners.

    Awards Include:

    • Member of the Year 
    • Business Champion of the Year
    • NextGen Award 

    Join us to support women owned! 

    The 2026 Visionary Awards will feature services, food, photography and more by women owned businesses including:

    Tickets include Cocktail Hour with drinks, heavy appetizers, admission to 10 galleries and the Awards ceremony.

    The "Sparkle & Sneakers" dress code, the goal is to balance celebratory, high-shine cocktail/ formal wear with the comfort and personality of athletic footwear. Allowing for creative expression while maintaining the prestigious atmosphere of the NAWBO Columbus Visionary Awards.

    The "Sparkle" represents your visionary brilliance, while the "Sneakers" represent the ground-level work of being a business owner!

    Registration closes Tuesday, May 7th!


    Event Agenda:

    • 5:00-6:30pm- Cocktail Hour & Galleries
    • 7:00-8:00pm- Visionary Awards Ceremony 


    Click HERE for Sponsorship Packages


    Thank You Sponsors!


    Silver Sponsor


    Red carpet experience Sponsored by:




    Photo Release:

    Registrants agree to the NAWBO Columbus photography release unless they have otherwise notified the communications committee via email to arien@nawbocolumbusohio.com.

    • Tue, May 19, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
    • Zoom
    Register


    Our Member Orientation is an opportunity for all members and those interested in membership to meet other NAWBO members as well as our board members and NAWBO Columbus Staff. During the meeting you will learn how to best utilize your membership and how to take advantage of all of the value and benefits that NAWBO Columbus provides.

    Additionally, you will be introduced to the board of directors, learn how to navigate the website and sign up for programs and events, and discuss how you can get involved in a committee!

    Once registered, the zoom link will be sent with your confirmation email.


    • Thu, May 21, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
    • Zoom
    Register


    Our Member Chat is an opportunity for all members and those interested in membership to have a virtual meet and greet with the NAWBO Columbus VP of Membership, Alison Forche and former VP of Roundtables, Molly Kane. 

    Bring your questions, connect and learn more about NAWBO membership and roundtables. 

    Once registered, the zoom link will be sent with your confirmation email.


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