INSPIRE Women’s Business Conference
A day to connect, learn and be inspired
INSPIRE brings together women business owners and leaders from across Washington for keynotes, expert sessions, networking, a marketplace of local vendors and the INSPIRE Small Business Awards. Presented by WCWB and the Thurston Economic Development Council.
Coming soon Details for INSPIRE 2027 are on the way. INSPIRE 2026 took place on May 28, 2026 in Lacey: see the 2026 recap.
A full-day women’s business conference
INSPIRE is WCWB’s annual conference, held in May each year, for women who own a business, want to start one or support those who do. It’s a day to learn something you can use on Monday, meet people who get what you’re building, and celebrate the women who are shaping our local economy.
Keynote speakers
Hear from women who have built businesses and organizations across Washington State.
Expert sessions
Practical talks and panels on funding, marketing, contracting and growth.
Networking
Meet business owners, partners and resource organizations from around the region.
Small Business Awards
Celebrate local women in business with the Innovation, Leadership and Community Impact awards.
Thank you for an amazing 2026
More than a day of learning, INSPIRE 2026 was a celebration of the women building businesses in our community.
INSPIRE over the years
Every conference keeps its own page, with its speakers, sessions, award winners and sponsors.
INSPIRE Pop-Up Market
Shop local at Capital Mall
Our low-cost market for women-owned businesses returns to Capital Mall in Olympia twice in 2027, on Saturday, February 6 and Saturday, October 23, from 10 AM to 6 PM. It’s free to attend.
Thank you to our 2026 sponsors
INSPIRE is possible because of local businesses and organizations who believe in women entrepreneurs.
INSPIRE conference questions
When is INSPIRE 2027?
INSPIRE is held in May each year. The date for INSPIRE 2027 hasn’t been announced yet. Join the newsletter below and we’ll share the date, tickets and speakers as soon as they’re ready.
Who should attend?
Women business owners at every stage, people thinking about starting a business, and anyone who supports women in business.
Can I be a speaker at INSPIRE?
Yes, we welcome speaker inquiries. INSPIRE features business owners, industry leaders and experts who share practical insight with women in business. Tell us a little about yourself and the topic you’d like to present, and our team will follow up about speaking opportunities at INSPIRE 2027.
How can my business sponsor INSPIRE?
Email Ashley Whitley at [email protected] to talk about sponsorship for INSPIRE 2027.
Where can I see past conferences?
Every INSPIRE has its own page with its speakers, award winners and sponsors. Start at INSPIRE over the years.
What is the INSPIRE Pop-Up Market?
A low-cost market for women-owned businesses at Capital Mall in Olympia, free to attend. The 2027 markets are on February 6 and October 23. Learn about the market.
Is there an INSPIRE podcast?
Yes. The INSPIRE Podcast shares real stories from Washington women in business all year round.
Be the first to hear about INSPIRE 2027
Join the newsletter for tickets, speakers and sponsorship news.
Presented by
INSPIRE is presented by the Washington Center for Women in Business and the Thurston Economic Development Council.