P.E.I. Business Women's Association gearing up for spring symposium

The P.E.I. Business Women's Association has its spring symposium coming up with workshops and keynote speakers.

Executive director Margaret Magner said the association has reimaginedthe event set for May 23 at Holland College.

"We're focusing a lot on workshops and interactive training," she said.

This year there will be a dozen workshops, a networking reception featuring School of Performing Arts students, andtwo keynote speakers.

One of them is Ashleigh Weeden,an award-winning rural innovator from Ontariowhowill speak about women and rural innovation.

"Sometimes in rural P.E.I. in particular there can be a perceived sense of isolation," said Magner.

Some women who own rural business are just happy to get together and compare notes on how to start a business, she said.

Author Natalie Doyle Oldfield will talk about the importance of building trust with customers and how important that is to advance your organization.

"It's agreat value and a good opportunity for all Island business women," said Magner.

Getting sliceof the public pie

Some of the workshops will cover how to put together a business plan, budgeting, negotiationand how to do business with the federal government, Magner said.

"There is $18 billion a year that's available in government contracts. So, this session is going to be talking about how to put together a successful bid and get your share of that."

Magner said the association has 450 members and continues to expand.

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