Women’s Business Network
Empower. Inspire. Connect
The Women’s Business Network's mission is to empower, inspire, and connect women in business. We are dedicated to creating a vibrant community where women can share knowledge, build meaningful relationships, and achieve their professional goals
You belong here.
The Women’s Business Network (WBN) is a vibrant community of women in and beyond. Our mission is to connect, inspire, and empower women at every stage of their business journey — from start-ups to seasoned entrepreneurs — while strengthening our local economy and giving back to the community.
We meet the first Monday of every month to network, learn, and grow together.
Our Values
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Integrity
We conduct ourselves with honesty and transparency, ensuring that our actions align with our principles and build trust within our community.
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Teamwork
We believe in the power of collaboration, fostering a supportive environment where diverse perspectives and collective efforts drive success.
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Excellence
We strive for the highest quality in all our endeavors, continually seeking improvement adn setting standards that inspire and motivate.
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Professionalism
We uphold a standard of respect, competence, and ethical behavior, ensuring that our interactions and practices reflect our commitment to professionalism.
Join Us at our next event.
The Women’s Business Network is a vibrant community of women in small businesses and professional practices. We meet on the 1st Monday of each month to network, engage in educational activities, and enjoy a fun, supportive environment with fellow businesswomen.
We are excited to gather at a beautiful, locally-owned space, the Gem Lounge, which provides the perfect atmosphere for networking and collaboration.
Event Details & Format
Our monthly events are designed to give you both learning and connection time:
5:00 – 5:30 PM | Check-In & Open Networking
5:30 – 5:40 PM | Host Welcome
5:40 – 6:25 PM | Keynote Speaker or Hands-On Networking/Activity
6:25 – 7:00 PM | Open Networking & Conversations
Tickets are $20 per person and include light bites and non-alcoholic beverages.
RSVP by email or through our Facebook event, then pay at the door when you arrive.
Speaker Lineup
Our lineup of distinguished keynote speakers is known for their expertise and passion for sharing knowledge. These accomplished women have been chosen to inspire, educate, and foster meaningful conversations. We hope new perspectives will be gained and engaging discussions can be enjoyed. The chance to connect with exceptional keynote speakers and fellow attendees should not be missed!
Past Speakers
The Women’s Business Network has been going strong for over a year, welcoming incredible speakers and building a supportive community of local women.
Some of our past speakers include:
Lori Otter – Former First Lady of Idaho
Cassie Benson – Founder, Neudle Creative Lab
Mary Zukin – Media Strategist, Iliad Media Group
Stephanie Sterns, LMFT, LCPC – Mental Health Professional
Jaclyn Padgett – Vice President, 44 North Vodka
Have questions?
Whether you’re curious about how to join, upcoming networking opportunities, or how to become a sponsor, you’ll find that information here.
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The Women’s Business Network events are the launching pad for further connection so come ready to connect, learn, make some new friends and business contacts, as well as have fun! The first 30 minutes is check-in and networking. This is a great way to connect with someone new and re-connect with women you already know. After the first 30 minutes, we hear from a guest speaker (or two) – they teach something applicable to being a woman in business and you’re sure to walk away with practical knowledge you can implement right away. You’ll then have the opportunity to share about your business as well as hear from the other women about theirs! We believe in making spaces where each woman can feel seen, heard, known, and belong. We also have a fun group photo during the event so that we can highlight the women that attended and cheer each other on in between events!
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Local Women in Business: Whether you’re a connector, leader, entrepreneur, or provider of products or services, if you’re looking to connect and expand your network, this is for you.
Believers in Collaboration: You understand that business (and life) is better when done together.
Avoiders of Boring Events: You’re seeking dynamic, engaging networking experiences.
Authentic Individuals: You don’t pretend to have it all together; you embrace genuine connections.
Intentional Networkers: You’re eager to connect with future Women’s Business Network attendees.
Growth Seekers: You’re a woman in business or an entrepreneur looking to enhance your business through strategies, masterminds, and learning from experts in areas like sales, marketing, social media, branding, leadership, and more.
Credibility Builders: You want to quickly build your brand and attract enthusiastic supporters and a network for referrals.
Social Media Savvy: You have a brand or service and want to reach clients and customers effectively through social media.
Experienced and Ambitious: You’ve had some success and recognize the value of expanding your network.
Vision-Driven: Your vision board is filled with dreams of impacting lives and transforming your message into reality through network growth, branding, digital marketing, and leadership.
Impactful: You feel called to make an impact but need the right people, resources, and support to do it.
Growth-Minded: You thrive in environments focused on growth and collaboration.
Fun-Loving: You enjoy having fun and being part of a community that celebrates and rises together.
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The Women’s Business Network is a vibrant community of women in small businesses and professional practices. We meet monthly on the 1st Monday at the Brunswick to network, engage, in educational activities, and enjoy a fun, supportive environment with fellow businesswomen.
We meet from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with the following agenda:
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Check-in and Networking
5:30 PM – 5:40 PM: Host and Welcome
5:40 PM – 6:25 PM: Keynote Speaker
6:25 PM – 7:00 PM: Open Networking and Chat
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Cost:
One-Time Visit: $20
6-Month Membership: $100
Annual Membership: $200
What is included:
Meeting each month
Catered lite bites
Non alcoholic beverages (for those who wish to have a drink their will be a no host bar)
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Women only (sorry guys)! We believe in the unique and powerful connections that form when women come together and commit to a supportive community. Due to limited space, attendance requires a ticket or an RSVP to attend.
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The ticket price covers the cost of food and non-alcoholic beverages served at the event. If you would like to enjoy alcoholic drinks, they can be purchased separately.
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Due to the limited tickets and seating, we do not offer refunds. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your ticket to another person. Please provide us with the new attendee’s name so we can update our list by emailing the information to gcwomensbusinessnetwork@gmail.com or calling 208-503-1476.
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Always check with your tax advisor, but if you’ve got a business and have itemized deductions, your ticket and travel expenses are more than likely deductible.
Want to do more than just attend an event?
Your Sponsorship has these added benefits:
Increased Visibility: Reach a targeted audience of professional women and business leaders.
Brand Recognition: Enhance your brand’s image through association with a respected network.
Community Impact: Contribute to the growth and success of the Women’s Business Network and make a positive impact in the community.
Sponsorship is available for $100 per event. Sponsors receive:
Recognition on our social media channels
10 minutes to speak about your business during the event
Opportunity to bring promotional items, coupons, or giveaways
Brand exposure to a network of engaged, professional women
For sponsorship opportunities or more creative ways to feature your business, email us at gcwomensbusinessnetwork@gmail.com.
Meet Our Volunteer Committee Members
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Sarah Polk
Sarah built a 20-year career in marketing, founding an international agency with clients such as Consumer Reports and Ammoland before selling the company in 2019. After a chapter in AI, she retired from tech at 40 and now runs Stone & Ground, an English-style bakery in Emmett where she weaves together her love of fresh-milled flour, herbs, teas, and traditional bakes.
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Susan Jenkins
With over 40 years of experience in education, Susan is an accomplished leader in curriculum design, educational administration, and community engagement. She holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Boise State and advanced certifications in professional-technical education. Beyond the classroom, she is a seasoned consultant and co-founder of the Gem County Economic Development Foundation Women’s Business Network, where she continues to foster innovation and local growth.
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Angela Gabiola
Born and raised in Emmett, Angela Studied Business Marketing at the University of Idaho and went on to build an impressive career in the spirits industry. She helped lead Grey Goose Vodka from Inception to a $2.8 billion acquisition within seven years, later serving in leadership roles from Sales to Vice President. Known for her communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills, Angela is a hands-on leader who drives business success through collaboration and vision.
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Tamara Kidman Walker
Raised in a large musical family in Arizona, Tamara has long called Emmett home. As the owner of two Main Street businesses and a founding member of the Women’s Networking Group, she is a cornerstone of the local community. Tamara brings invaluable experience in retail, relationship-building, and community leadership, strengthening Emmett through her dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.
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Ember Hines
With over 20 years of marketing leadership, Ember has directed major campaigns for Cumulus Media, the Ford Idaho Center, and venues in Colorado and Orlando. Today, she leads her own agency specializing in events, multimedia, and community partnerships. Her expertise in creating impactful connections continues to energize both businesses and community projects across Idaho.
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Amanda Dietz
A San Francisco native and Boise State graduate, Amanda brings a rare blend of experiences spanning law enforcement, small business ownership, and real estate. Known for her discipline, leadership, and creative problem-solving, she is passionate about strengthening communities and championing small business development.
Upcoming Meeting Dates
Contact us.
Are you ready to elevate your business and connect with a vibrant community of driven women? At the Women’s Business Network, we believe in the power of collaboration and support. Our network is dedicated to empowering women like you by offering valuable connections. Come be a part of a dynamic community that champions your success and helps you thrive.
By Phone: (208) 503-1476
By Email: gcwomensbusinessnetwork@gmail.com
On Facebook: Women’s Business Network of Gem County
On Instagram: Gem_County_WBN
Proud Sponsors of GCWBN
Part of Something Bigger
The Women’s Business Network is a proud program of the Gem Community Economic Development Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
That means your participation helps us:
Empower women in business
Strengthen local businesses and entrepreneurship
Invest back into our community’s future
