The AWE Summit

Women entrepreneurs are shaping the future of business, innovation, and leadership. At this year’s AWE Summit 2025, we bring together Alberta’s most dynamic business minds to strengthen connections, unlock opportunities, and drive lasting success.

This year’s theme, Building Capacity in Uncertain Times, reflects our commitment to fostering the networks, knowledge, and capital needed for women entrepreneurs to thrive. Through engaging keynote speakers, and thought-provoking panels, the AWE Summit provides invaluable insights and tangible strategies to help you scale your business, grow your impact, and build meaningful relationships.

Meet Our Speakers: Wisdom, Strategy & Real Talk from the Frontlines of Entrepreneurship

This year’s Summit will feature an insightful panel discussion and a hands-on workshop, all designed to equip women entrepreneurs with practical tools, inspiring stories, and actionable strategies for navigating uncertain times.

Panel Discussion: “Been There, Still Doing That: Building Business in Uncertain Times”

Join us for an honest, grounded conversation with three exceptional entrepreneurs who’ve turned challenges into opportunities, and continued to build thriving businesses with clarity, creativity, and resilience:

• Casey Sharp is the Co-Founder and COO of the Risio Institute, a dental assisting school focused on expanding access to education for people in rural and remote communities. Drawing from a background in e-learning and aviation, Casey brings a practical, solutions-oriented approach to entrepreneurship and continues to advocate for accessible education and innovation in regulated industries.

• Kendall Barber is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Poppy Barley, a Canadian brand redefining luxury with sustainably made, ultra-comfortable footwear and accessories. A lifelong advocate for women, girls, and ethical fashion, Kendall is leading a movement toward more conscious consumerism and a more inclusive industry one step at a time.

• Vartika Satija, CPA, CA, is the founder of a boutique accounting and tax advisory firm serving a wide range of entrepreneurs and not-for-profits. Known for her client-focused and empowering approach, Vartika supports business owners with strategic tax planning, financial systems, and financial literacy ensuring they’re not just compliant, but confident and future-ready.

Workshop

At this year's AWE Summit, Melissa Martin, AWE and Sunrise Co., will deliver an engaging, 30 minute workshop designed to help you use marketing as a tool for resilience and growth. You’ll explore how to communicate with clarity, build stronger customer relationships, and stay agile with digital strategies that actually work. Whether you're rethinking your brand or planning your next big move, you’ll leave with practical ideas you can put into action right away.

Why Attend?

Network with Industry Leaders – Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and business experts who share your vision for success.
Gain Actionable Insights – Learn from leading voices in business and finance through insightful discussions and practical workshops.
Access Growth Opportunities – Explore pathways to funding, strategic partnerships, and resources to propel your business forward.
Celebrate Women's Entrepreneurship – Be inspired by trailblazing women making a difference in Alberta’s business landscape.

Who Should Attend?

• Women entrepreneurs and business owners

• Founders and startups looking to scale

• Investors, ecosystem partners, and business professionals

• Anyone passionate about fostering a stronger, more inclusive economy

Join Us on May 14th

This is more than just an event, it’s a movement! Whether you're looking to build new partnerships, secure funding, or gain the insights needed to take your business to the next level, the AWE Summit is your gateway to growth and innovation.

Location: Mount Royal University, Calgary, AB
Date: May 14, 2025

Ready to strengthen your connections and transform your business? Stay tuned for registration details!