Sneakers and Stilettos: A Business Summit

Sneakers & Stilettos is more than just a summit—it’s a movement for bold entrepreneurs building businesses with passion, purpose, and impact. Brought to you by The SBDC of Hudson County and The Next Generation Network, this one-day event is designed to equip you with the tools, strategies, and connections to elevate your business to new heights.

Whether you're scaling your startup, refining your vision, or seeking powerful collaborations, this summit will provide actionable insights, transformative conversations, and a community that truly gets you.

What to Expect:

💡 Dynamic Keynote Speakers who have built, scaled, and led with impact.
🎤 Breakout Workshops covering public speaking, sales, funding, confidence, AI, and more.
🤝 Powerful Networking with industry leaders, business owners, and changemakers.
🔥 Exclusive VIP Experience with meet-and-greets, reserved seating, and private post-event networking.

Bring your sneakers for the journey and your stilettos for the destination—because this summit is where bold dreams turn into bold actions.

Who Should Attend?

All entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals who are ready to lead with intention, grow with integrity, and connect with a like-minded powerhouse community. Whether you’re building your empire, launching a side hustle, or navigating corporate leadership, this event will help you make meaningful connections and learn from top business minds across the tri-state area and beyond.

Event Agenda & Timeline:

📍 8:30 AM – Registration, open networking & vendor showcase
🎤 9:35 AM – 10:05 AM – Keynote Speaker: Lyndsay Kilpatrick (New Jersey Deputy District Director, U.S. Small Business)

🔹 10:05 AM – 11:25 AM – Breakout Sessions (Choose from 6 Topics):

• Option A: Public Speaking with Cat Coley
• Option B: “Funding Your Dreams” with Debbie O'Hara, Sheila Harris-Adams + finance experts
• Option C: Sales Through Socials with Jo White
• Option D: Mindset & Confidence: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome with Angela, Anny, and Elena
• Option E: Meet the NJEDA with Michelle Osorio
• Option F: Intro to AI with Jessica Marie (SBDC, NJCU School of Business)

🥗 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – Lunch & Networking (Includes Expert Panel)
🎯 12:45 PM – 2:15 PM – Breakout Sessions (Second & Third Session Options)
🔥 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM – Fireside Chat (Speaker TBA)
👏 3:30 PM – 3:45 PM – Closing Remarks + Sponsor Spotlights + Dedicated Networking

🌟 VIP Experience: Upgrade for exclusive meet-and-greets, prime reserved seating, and an intimate post-event networking session.

📢 Interested in Exhibiting, Sponsoring, or Contributing to Swag Bags? Click here to connect with us!

🔗 Secure Your Spot Now

Thank you to the NJEDA, PNC Bank, and UCEDC for sponsoring this event.

Thank you to Nev Photography, Noir Photography Studios, and Arriao for being in-kind sponsors across our media and decor teams.