Cal Poly Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship Celebrates Women Entrepreneurs at March Forum

Nearly half of U.S. businesses are owned or co-owned by women, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In San Luis Obispo County, female Cal Poly alums head up innovative firms such as Jamba Juice and REC Solar.

To recognize and learn from women business leaders, Cal Poly’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship is inviting community members to join with students, faculty and alumni in “Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs” at the Entrepreneurship Forum scheduled for March 10 at 5 p.m. at the Cal Poly Tech Park.

The event brings together women in leadership roles for a panel discussion on strategies for success in today’s business climate. Judy Ledford Staley, director of Legislative Affairs and co-founder of REC Solar, Inc. will keynote the evening. Other panelists include Heather Hiles, CEO of rrrIPPLE; Barbara Talent, CEO of Livebinders; and Maureen McEnroe, senior manager for Corporate Development for NetApp (formerly Network Appliance).

“I am excited that NetApp is part of this event, because we built our company on a foundation of innovation,” said Dave Hitz, founder and executive vice president for NetApp, the sponsor company. “Forums like this are a valuable tool both for the university and NetApp, and we hope to share our passion and experience with the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

The March 10 forum is the third in the series of these free events providing the opportunity to meet student entrepreneurs and learn about their projects, network with local innovators and business people, and hear about the center’s activities. Refreshments are served.

For more information or to register for the event visit www.calpolyentrepreneurship.com.