Agenda

Check in at the ACE event and enjoy coffee (provided by Rockford Roasting Company) and pastries, while engaging with other entrepreneurs and business experts.

You will be welcomed by a representative from the ACE Event Sponsor MPOWR - Coworking + Collaboration Center. 

Next, be ready to get energized with a keynote address from Think Big co-founder, Dr. Sheila Hill.

This panel of small business, government and economic development experts will discuss what it takes to start a business in Boone and Winnebago Counties, with an emphasis on the Cities of Belvidere and Rockford.

One of the most asked questions when starting a business is, "How do I fund my business."  This panel of experts will provide you with the tools and resources to find funding options that are right for your business.

Enjoy a catered lunch, while networking with other entrepreneurs and business resource partners.

During lunch, work with artist Roni Golan and put your mark on a special, unique project being made specifically for the ACE Event. You won't want to miss this.

This panel of entrepreneurs, moderated by Iconic Energy owner Teague Dickey, will discuss what steps they took to create a successful business. They will also talk about the opportunities and challenges associated with starting a business.

Take what you learn from the ACE Conference & Expo and apply it to the 2024 FastPitch Competition through EigerLab. Teresa Beach-Shelow will explain what the FastPitch is and prepare you for next year's competition.

Enjoy networking with the contacts you made throughout the day, while complimentary wine, beer, and snacks.

Meet industry and business leaders who you can partner with now and into the future, as you journey through your business lifecycles. 

Engage with other aspiring and existing business owners, to increase your network base. Receive contact information to continue the conversations even after the event.