By Dana Solomon. Palmer, Business Correspondent
June 4, 2025 | Houston, TX
The 2025 Women’s Business Conference, held on June 4-5 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Greenway Plaza, brought together over 500 women entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and advocates. The conference, organized by the Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance (WBEA), was designed to foster collaboration, provide resources, and create opportunities for business growth. Focused on empowering women-owned businesses, the event tackled critical issues like leadership development, access to capital, and the digital transformation of industries.
An Event for Networking and Growth
This year’s conference featured a series of keynote speakers, expert-led panels, and networking opportunities. Attendees came from a variety of industries, with many eager to share their knowledge and gain practical insights to help grow their businesses. WBEA organizers focused on creating a space for these women to build connections and discuss shared experiences, providing a platform for actionable advice and community-building.
“The event is an excellent opportunity for women to connect, learn, and share ideas. There’s a real focus on practical solutions that women can implement in their businesses,” said Michelle Perez, President of WBEA. “This type of collaboration will not only benefit individual businesses but also strengthen the larger community of women entrepreneurs.”
Keynote Address by Dr. Angela Hayes
One of the major highlights of the conference was the keynote address delivered by Dr. Angela Hayes, the CEO of Hayes Enterprises and a leading voice for women in business. Dr. Hayes spoke passionately about the power of resilience and the importance of embracing leadership roles. She shared her personal journey and offered advice to entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses.
“I’ve learned that the key to success is building a strong, supportive network,” Dr. Hayes told the audience. “Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. As women, we have the power to shape industries and lead with purpose.”
Her message resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom were small business owners or early-stage entrepreneurs looking to expand their ventures.
Access to Capital: Breaking Barriers
One of the most practical discussions at the conference was the panel on Accessing Capital for Growth, which addressed the challenges women face when seeking funding for their businesses. Panelists, including venture capitalists and small business loan experts, provided a roadmap for securing investment and exploring funding options, from traditional loans to crowdfunding.
“Securing capital is often one of the greatest challenges for women in business,” said Carla Stevens, a venture capitalist. “But it’s important to remember that there are many resources available specifically for women entrepreneurs. It’s about being bold and exploring all options to find the right fit for your business.”
The panel was well-received, with many attendees noting that it gave them confidence and a deeper understanding of the funding landscape.
Digital Transformation: Opportunities for Growth
In addition to access to funding, digital transformation was a major focus at the conference. Experts discussed how technology is reshaping industries and creating new opportunities for women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.
A panel titled Harnessing Technology for Business Growth explored how digital tools like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and e-commerce platforms can streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and open new markets. Sarah Johnson, the founder of a fintech startup, explained how small businesses can leverage emerging technologies to stay competitive.
“The digital space is an incredible opportunity for women to break down barriers and grow their businesses in ways that weren’t possible before,” Johnson said. “Technology is no longer just for the big players. It’s accessible and can be tailored to businesses of all sizes.”
Networking: The Heart of the Conference
Beyond the formal panels and discussions, the heart of the conference was the networking opportunities it provided. Attendees were able to connect with like-minded women, share challenges and successes, and form collaborations that will continue well beyond the event.
Maria Gonzalez, a small business owner from Austin, said that meeting other entrepreneurs was one of the most valuable aspects of the conference. “I’ve already met several women with whom I’m planning to collaborate. This has been an amazing opportunity to exchange ideas and gain inspiration,” she said.
The conference also featured workshops and roundtable discussions, allowing attendees to engage in smaller, more intimate settings. These conversations provided space for women to ask specific questions about their businesses and receive personalized advice from industry experts.
The Future of Women Entrepreneurs
The 2025 Women’s Business Conference was a clear demonstration of the power and potential of women entrepreneurs. With sessions focused on growth strategies, leadership development, and sustainability, the event provided both immediate takeaways and long-term insights for attendees.
As the conference wrapped up, many attendees expressed excitement about what lay ahead. “I’m leaving with new tools, new connections, and a renewed sense of purpose for my business,” said Gonzalez. “This has been an inspiring experience, and I’m eager to put everything I’ve learned into action.”