

2026 Award winner of National Small Business Week at the annual Washington State Small Business Awards Gala held in Seattle.
Jess Caldwell is the founder and lead instructor of Wildkind Outdoors, where she specializes in wilderness survival training, outdoor education, and immersive rewilding retreats. With a background in holistic health and mindfulness, she integrates nature-based practices to help individuals build resilience and navigate modern challenges with greater clarity and confidence. She also founded Wildkind Academy, a nonprofit leadership program that empowers teens and young adults through transformational, nature-centered experiences. Jess brings deep, hands-on expertise from advanced wilderness immersions, where she developed essential survival skills and a strong connection to the natural world—fueling her mission to guide others toward personal growth, self-reliance, and meaningful engagement with nature.

Continental breakfast provided
Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Economic Development
Melanie Montgomery
Melanie M. Norton
TBD
Program Director of Washington Apex Accelerator
WMarketplace
Recognition of Outstanding Women in Business
Secure your seat at the women's event of the year and follow us on social!
The INSPIRE Women's Business Conference, proudly hosted by the Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB), is a dynamic event tailored for women-identifying business owners and leaders across Washington state. This conference is a powerful platform for fostering connections, expanding professional networks, and providing actionable insights to help women grow their businesses.