Join Us for Coffee and Conversations at the Women's Business Development Center Networking Event in Hartford
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read
Are you considering entrepreneurship as your next chapter? The rise of women entrepreneurs is reshaping communities and economies across the country. If you want to explore this exciting path, connect with like-minded women, and gain valuable insights, the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC) of Connecticut invites you to a special networking event in downtown Hartford.
This event offers a unique opportunity to meet fellow entrepreneurs, share ideas, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with coffee and pastries. Whether you are just starting or looking to grow your business, this gathering at the Hartford Public Library (we love our libraries!) will inspire and support your journey.
Why Women Entrepreneurship Matters Today
Women-owned businesses are growing faster than ever. According to recent studies, women entrepreneurs contribute significantly to job creation and innovation. Yet, historically many face challenges such as limited access to funding, mentorship, and networks. Events like this one help bridge those gaps by creating spaces where women can connect, learn, and support each other.
Joining this event means you will:
Meet experienced entrepreneurs and mentors
Discover resources tailored to women business owners
Gain confidence to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey
Meet other "in" the workforce and determine whether this path is for you
What to Expect at the Networking Event
The event takes place at the Hartford Public Library, 500 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103. It starts with a welcoming session led by Concilia Ndlovu, the WBDC Hartford Director and mentor. She will share insights on entrepreneurship and answer your questions.
After the session, attendees will have the chance to explore the library’s career section. This area offers valuable materials on business development, career planning, and skill-building. It’s a perfect way to combine networking with learning.
You can look forward to:
Engaging conversations with fellow entrepreneurs
Delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee
Light snacks provided by the organizers
Additional food and specialty drinks available for purchase
This event is designed to be informal and welcoming, encouraging open dialogue and genuine connections.

How to Prepare and Make the Most of the Event
To get the most from this networking opportunity, consider the following tips:
Have your elevator pitch ready focusing on your core, transferrable skills and unique traits
Begin in a friendly way leverage our networking tips
Be open to learning and sharing your experiences, no matter your business stage.
Plan to stay for the entire event to fully benefit from the conversations and library exploration.
Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just exchanging information. Approach the event with curiosity and a willingness to connect.
About the Women's Business Development Center Hartford Team
Untapped Potential got its start through consultation from the WBDC-Hartford in 2015! At that point the center was part of University of Hartford. We are excited to support the opening of their new center in Hartford! The WBDC Hartford team is passionate about supporting women entrepreneurs in Connecticut. Led by Concilia Ndlovu, the center offers mentorship, training, and resources to help women start and grow successful businesses. You may have met Concilia Ndlovu as a Mentor and Speaker for our Return-to-work Industry-focused Event focues on women-owned businesses, start-ups and non-proifts. WBDC-Hartford is now part of the award winning Women's Business Development Center of Connecticut that has been supporting women entrepreneurs since 1997. Learn more about the Women's Business Development Centers across the nation, why they are so important and how to find one near you.
Their approach focuses on practical support, community building, and empowerment. By attending this event, you tap into a vast resource dedicated to your success.
How to Join and Stay Connected
The event is free and open to all women interested in exploring entrepreneurship. To let the organizers know you are attending, please sign up at upotential.org/events.
The Hartford Public Library hosts the event at 500 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103-3003. Light snacks and coffee will be provided, and additional food and specialty drinks will be available for purchase.
Sign up directly Events - Hartford Public Library
Take the Next Step in Your #Returntowork Journey
This networking event is more than just coffee and pastries. It is a chance to explore whether entrepreneurship fits your next chapter, connect with a supportive community, and gain practical tools to move forward. There is value in considering something new and there is value in determining it is NOT for you. You'll never know unless you explore it!
Exploring new opportunities such as entrepreneurship is a step in your journey that we map out in our FREE EXPLORE membership.
If you have been thinking about starting a business or growing your existing one, this event can provide the inspiration and connections you need. Join us at the Hartford Public Library, meet the WBDC Hartford team, and be part of a growing movement of women entrepreneurs.



