Start Smart. Grow Strong in Oregon! Empowering Oregon Entrepreneurs.
Tuesday, July 7, 2026, 5:00 PM PDT – 7:30 PM PDT
Portland, Oregon
Hosted by Women Stories Network
Starting or growing a business in Oregon? Join Women Stories Network (WSN) for an inspiring evening designed to connect entrepreneurs, small business owners, professionals, and aspiring founders with the people, knowledge, and resources that help businesses thrive. Hear from experienced leaders who are transforming Oregon's entrepreneurial ecosystem through business development, community partnerships, leadership, and access to capital. Whether you're launching your first venture or looking to scale your business, you'll leave with practical insights, meaningful connections, and renewed inspiration. What you'll gain: Learn how to access funding and business resources. Discover strategies for sustainable business growth. Build valuable connections with Oregon's entrepreneurial community. Be inspired by women leaders creating lasting impact across the state. Meet Our Speakers: Nicci Walker Credit Manager, Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon (MESO) With more than 20 years of commercial banking experience, Nicci Walker helps entrepreneurs navigate the often-complex world of business financing. As Credit Manager at MESO, she works closely with small business owners to connect them with the capital and resources they need to grow with confidence. Known as the "extrovert of the Lending Group," Nicci is passionate about building partnerships, simplifying lending, and helping businesses achieve long-term success. Yirla Rubi Gonzalez Nolan Co-Founder, Oregon Conferences for Women | Founder & President, Faro Business Solutions A respected executive, strategist, and community leader with more than 15 years of experience, Yirla Rubi Gonzalez Nolan has dedicated her career to advancing economic development, leadership, and opportunities for underrepresented communities. Through Faro Business Solutions, she empowers nonprofits and small businesses with strategic guidance, operational excellence, and fundraising expertise. As Co-Founder of Oregon Conferences for Women, she has helped build one of Oregon's fastest-growing professional women's networks, creating spaces where women connect, lead, and thrive. Lorena Mora Programs & Partnership Manager, Division Midway Alliance Lorena Mora is passionate about creating vibrant, inclusive communities where small businesses and diverse voices can flourish. With a degree in Community Development from Portland State University, she brings a people-centered approach to economic development by fostering meaningful partnerships and supporting underserved entrepreneurs. Lorena believes that thriving communities begin with belonging, collaboration, and uplifting the cultures and local businesses that make Oregon unique. Moderator: Sheikha Aldosary Founder & CEO, Women Stories Network Sheikha Aldosary is a media entrepreneur, journalist, and senior communications strategist with over 18 years of international experience in journalism, strategic communications, and storytelling. As Founder and CEO of Women Stories Network, she is committed to amplifying the voices of women entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers whose stories inspire action and create opportunities. After leading award-winning initiatives across the Middle East, Sheikha is now based in Portland, where she is expanding WSN into a global platform connecting women with the networks, organizations, and resources that help them succeed. Whether you're dreaming of starting a business, growing an existing one, or looking to connect with Oregon's entrepreneurial community, this event is for you. Come learn, connect, and grow with leaders who are committed to helping entrepreneurs succeed. 📅 Tuesday, July 7, 2026 🕔 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM 📍 UpStart Collective, Portland, OR