PROGRAMS & EVENTS
ORVBA
The 2026 ORV Business Accelerator is a six-session virtual program (from April to August) designed to help small businesses strengthen their foundation, sharpen their competitive edge, and accelerate growth. Through a combination of pitch practice, expert-led content, and hands-on activities, participants will gain practical skills they can apply immediately to their business.
Each session builds progressively—from clarifying your business foundations to developing brand messaging, sales strategies, financial basics, and legal/IP protections—while integrating innovative topics like AI adoption and supplier diversity opportunities. The program culminates in a Pitch Competition, where participants deliver a polished business pitch and receive live feedback from peers and judges.
2027 Cohort Information Coming Soon
ORVBDP
Ohio River Valley’s Business Development Program (ORVBDP) is a comprehensive 7-month business development program designed for women business owners who are building sustainable and scalable companies. Modeled after the Kauffman FastTrac Growth Venture Program and hosted in partnership with corporations such as Victoria's Secret & Co., P&G, L Brands, Marathon, and Fifth Third Bank to name a few, the course is guided by certified facilitators and includes subject matter experts. The highly selective program is limited to 10 participants per class.
Catch The Wave Regional Conference
Catch the Wave provides networking, training, and access to certified women business owners in Kentucky, Ohio & West Virginia and WBEC ORV corporate members. This conference draws nearly 300 attendees from across the region and includes an opening reception, pitch breakfast, keynote luncheon, awards dinner, corporate and WBE workshops, WBE Showcase and an Opportunity Matchmaker event. Corporate and WBE sponsorships are available.
Catch the Wave 2027
Columbus, OH | August
Women of Color Program
The Women of Color program provides education, access and support to help Women of Color WBEs flourish and grow. All allies are invited to participate, including Corporate Members, WBEs or other partners.
Education and outreach events include Bold & Brilliant, Why Should I Get Certified? Webinars, Women of Color WBE Connects and more.
WBENC National Conference
This was the year to Expand Your IMPACT at the WBENC National Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah! The WBENC National Conference isn’t just another business event. It is a powerful gathering point for business-building connections, collaboration, and growth that drive impact and innovation. Every year, WBENC raises the bar with fresh, dynamic approaches that spark connections and lead to opportunities.
This year's event has already taken place - and we can't wait for 2027!
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