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2020 Symposium (Online)

Tuesday, October 6, 2020



The PEI Business Women’s Association Symposium is the premier event for women in business across the Island - and beyond.

The one-day conference is filled with presentations, workshops, networking, and inspiration. The Symposium offers something for women in business from across the Island and region — start-up entrepreneurs, established business owners, mid-career business professionals, dynamic rural entrepreneurs, newcomers launching their businesses, students and more.

The 2020 Symposium was held on Tuesday, October 6th in a live-streamed virtual format. 

Thanks again to the following Symposium partners whose generous support enabled attendees to participate at no cost:

Purple Partners

  • BDC
  • Women's Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH)

Teal Partners

  • CBDCs of PEI
  • Innovation PEI
  • McInnes Cooper
  • PEI Rural Growth Initiative
  • Skills PEI

Green Partners

  • Isabel Delaney & Associates/The Cooperators
  • MAXIMUS Canada
  • MRSB
  • RBC
  • UPEI MBA Programs

See the Full 2020 Session List Here

2020 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS - Keynote Speakers

Zita Cobb, Founder and CEO of Shorefast and Innkeeper of the famous Fogo Island Inn.

This fascinating woman, an Order of Canada and Canada Business Hall of Fame recipient, will shared the story of the journey that took her from Canada's oldest settlement to the world of high tech and then back home again as a successful social business leader.



Rural researcher and innovator Ashleigh Weeden


As our Lunch & Learn Keynote speaker, Ashleigh presented on the challenges and opportunities available to us if we embrace our "life on the edge." 



Dr. Wendy Cukierone of Canada’s leading experts in disruptive technologies, innovation processes, and diversity and inclusion.


Head of the national Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, Dr. Cuckier's Afternoon Keynote addressed the role women entrepreneurs play in our economy and community as well as the value of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. 


"Stronger Than You Know" Closing Café with Rachel Beck


We wrapped up our amazing day with a facilitated discussion about Rachel’s journey as a self-managed entrepreneur during a pandemic, followed by a live performance of songs from her latest release.


Interested in partnering opportunities for the 2021 PEIBWA Symposium?

The PEIBWA Symposium provides the opportunity to reach and engage women business owners and professionals on PEI and across the Atlantic region. Contact Communications & Engagement Officer Kelly Mullaly at kelly@peibwa.org or 902-892-6040 to discuss available partnership opportunities.