Your WBEC Florida representatives were out in force this week at ChallengeHER in Fort Lauderdale. Hosted by Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), the event was designed to help women-owned businesses navigate the processes of federal contracting. WBEC Florida President and CEO Nancy Allen (pictured above, on the left) spoke on a panel, and our member Ebony Smith (pictured at right, in the center), founder of Ebenum Equation, spoke on another panel. Our certification director, Lisa Roblejo, greeted attendees at the WBEC Florida table (pictured below).

"We've already received fantastic feedback from participants who left feeling empowered, with new knowledge, fresh perspectives, and a wealth of resources at their fingertips," WIPP Membership Director Jen Cloutier said after the event. "Thanks to your expertise, they have so much to explore and act on!"

WIPP Membership Opportunity

for WBENC-Certified WBEs

WBENC recently shared a new benefit: a discounted annual membership rate with WIPP for WBENC-certified WBEs.

WIPP, which has served as the primary advocacy partner for WBENC since its inception, is a national nonpartisan organization working on behalf of women business owners to strengthen their impact on public policy and create economic opportunities.

The discounted rate is $325 annually and will remain the same as long as you maintain your WBENC WBE certification. To register for this special rate, you need your WBENCLink System Vendor Number.

WBEC FL Post-Hurricanes Survey

Here is a list of tips and resources we've compiled for you.

Who Do You Want to Thank?

It's that time of year when you look back at the past 12 months and realize how far you've come since January. Maybe there are some people you'd like to thank: longtime clients, new customers, mentors, people who have referred your business, and others.

Why not send a simple handwritten "Thank you"? Keep in mind that the best thank you notes have three characteristics:

1. They are specific. They mention particulars, such as why you are grateful for the person, or how you met.
2. They are succinct. There are just enough words to make the other person smile.
3. They are personal. The reader can hear your voice in the words and appreciate your sentiments because you are connecting through something you have in common.

Want to learn more? Check out Chapter 20 in The Decision to Scale: 25 Tips for Women-Owned Businesses Looking to Grow by our President and CEO Nancy G. Allen. All proceeds from the book go back to WBEC Florida to support WBEs.

From Our Partners with Florida Blue:

Boost Your Chances of Winning with Florida Blue!

When: Thursday, December 12, 11am to Noon EST

Where: Virtual event 

Join us for our Q4 Training and Development Session: "Tips and Best Practices for Florida Blue Proposals." Led by two seasoned procurement specialists, this interactive session will equip you with expert advice on submitting a winning proposal. Plus, get your questions answered by our sourcing SMEs during the Q&A session. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your proposal game and increase your chances of success with Florida Blue!

June 23-26, 2025

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