Strong Women | Fargo
Communities thrive when women business owners succeed, and we know that business ownership can seem like a vast, overwhelming road at times. During SWSC, attendees will engage with a panel of local business owners about their experiences in ownership, explore challenges and solutions, and make connections with peers and other business resources who can help them move forward on their business journey.
Not a business owner? That’s okay, too. Whether you own a business or support women business owners in another way, you’re welcome here! Chamber leaders, economic developers, community supporters, commercial lenders, etc., are all encouraged to attend. Bring your business cards and get ready for this event designed to inspire and connect you with other strong women!
What to Expect*
8:00 AM – 8:15 AM | Registration
Registration is simple. When you arrive, we’ll scan your ticket. Printed or virtual tickets will be accepted. After that, feel free to grab a seat and we will start with organized speed networking.
8:15 AM – 9:00 AM | Facilitated Networking
Ever feel awkward walking into a networking situation? Introducing yourself to new people can be intimidating for some. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Our facilitated networking activity eliminates the awkward hello and focuses your time on making impactful connections.
9:00 PM – 9:35 AM | Light breakfast and Panel
The program will start promptly at 9:00 AM. Please feel free to enjoy your breakfast during the panel. We encourage audience participation, so if you have a question, raise your hand and share.
9:35 AM – 9:45 AM | That’s a Wrap!
We understand your time is valuable, so we’ll get you back to your day by 10:00 AM. Unless you want to put it off a little longer, in which case you’re welcome to stick around.
*Schedule is subject to change.
Thanks To Our Sponsors
Gate City Bank (Logo Coming)
Speakers
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Allison GrippeYug YogaOver the last 5 years Allison has taught hundreds of yoga classes and created heart-centered spaces for people to connect and thrive across FM area. As a certified 500-RYT and trauma-informed instructor, she believes in yoga’s ancient teachings and loves showing people how vast they can be.
As the owner of YUJ Yoga Studio and a Lululemon ambassador, Allison is always growing her village and supportive community. She knows how important it is for you to feel like you truly belong because she found yoga during the loneliest and lowest point of her life. Today, her past experiences now fuel her passion to help see people for who they really are…spiritual beings having human experiences vs. the other way around.
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Ashley HammDear NICU Mama and Florapine PhotographyAshley Hamm is a local entrepreneur and nonprofit founder based in Fargo, ND. With over a decade of experience as a wedding photographer and five years as the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Dear NICU Mama, Ashley is passionate about storytelling and building meaningful community. Whether she’s behind the camera or connecting NICU moms across the country, Ashley is all about helping people feel seen. She’s a proud wife and mom who loves a good story, a cozy dinner party, and any excuse to bring people together—especially if there’s coffee involved.
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Jenessa FillipiDown HomeJenessa Fillipi is a devoted wife of over 20 years, a proud mother of four, and a visionary leader driven by faith and purpose. With a deep commitment to family and community, she spent 15 years as an elementary school counselor before answering a divinely inspired call to create lasting change. In 2017, she and her husband founded Down Home, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families emerging from homelessness find stability and hope. What began as a single act of service has grown into a powerful movement of immeasurable transformation. Serving as the Executive Director of Down Home, Jenessa continues to lead with passion and conviction. Named the 2024 American Mothers Inc.® National Mother of the Year®, she is a dynamic storyteller who engages, equips, and activates individuals to embrace their own journeys, step boldly into their calling, and make a meaningful impact in the world.