The countdown is on for the inaugural 2026 McLean County Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Conference, presented by Beam Philanthropy Partners. Taking place Thursday, June 25 at the Parke Regency Hotel & Conference Center, this full-day experience is designed to bring together women from across industries for a day of networking, professional development, inspiration and connection. This year’s conference theme is “Navigating Change,” and tickets can be purchased here.
Whether you’re attending to grow your career, expand your network, gain fresh perspective or simply spend the day surrounded by motivated women in business, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Event schedule
What time is it? 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM
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Is a detailed conference schedule available? Yes. See details below.
- 7:00 AM – Rise & Connect Networking
- 9:30 AM – Welcome Address
- 9:35 AM – Keynote Speaker
- 10:45 AM – Breakout Session 1
- 12:00 PM – Lunch Break
- 1:00 PM – Movement Break
- 1:30 PM – Breakout Session 2
- 2:45 PM – Navigating What’s Next Q&A Panel
- 3:45 PM – Cheers to Change Cocktail Hour
Location and parking
Where is it? Parke Regency Hotel & Conference Center | 1413 Leslie Dr. Bloomington, IL 61704
Where do I park? Parking is available on-site at the Parke Regency Hotel & Conference Center. Attendees may use the main event parking lot located directly outside the venue entrance on the south side.
What to expect
This thoughtfully curated conference will feature:
- A keynote speaker focused on navigating change and growth
- Breakout sessions led by industry professionals
- A cross-industry leadership panel discussion
- High-level networking opportunities
- An exhibitor showcase featuring products and services designed for women
- Breakfast, lunch and cocktail hour refreshments
- Welcome bags, business card drawings and more
The conference was created to help attendees build meaningful connections while gaining practical tools and insights they can bring back to their careers and businesses.
Exhibitor showcase
When is the exhibitor showcase open?
The Exhibitor Showcase will be open between sessions and during designated networking times throughout the day. The showcase will not be open during the keynote presentation or breakout sessions to help ensure attendees can fully participate in conference programming while also having dedicated time to connect with exhibitors.
What businesses will be exhibiting?
Beam Philanthropy Partners, Beautiful Life Senior Relocation Services, Renaissance Wealth Management BN, Habitat for Humanity of McLean County, Inc., Moxii Marketing Solutions, hARmonize, Gateway Foundation, Clothes Mentor, Visiting Angels Homecare Agency, Pavlov Media, Majestic Interior Design, Tillena Sigler's Bookkeeping, University of Illinois Community Credit Union, Four Seasons Health Club, Lilac Rising, Mazter Mindz Media, SBA/IRS
Who can attend
I am not a Chamber Member. Can I still attend this event? Yes. This event is open to members and the community.
Do I have to live in Bloomington-Normal to attend this event? No. The Women in Business Conference welcomes attendees from across Central Illinois and surrounding communities. This event was designed to bring together professionals from a variety of backgrounds, industries and career stages, and the organizers believe everyone can gain valuable insights, connections and inspiration from the experience.
Pricing and registration
How much does it cost to attend this event?
- $150 | Chamber Member Standard Registration
- $250 | Non-Member Standard Registration
My organization would like to bring multiple people. Is there a group discount? Yes. Enjoy 10% off standard member registration when you purchase four or more tickets.
I would like to attend and be an exhibitor. Can I sign up to do this? Yes. Businesses are welcome to both attend the conference and participate in the Exhibitor Showcase. See ticket and exhibitor pricing below.
- $200 | Chamber Member Standard Registration Ticket + Exhibitor Booth
- $350 | Non-Member Standard Registration Ticket + Exhibitor Booth
I am passionate about supporting women in business. Is there any sponsorships opportunities for my business? Yes, all available sponsorships can be found here on the website.
Speakers and audience
Who is speaking at this event? See the complete speaker lineup listed to the right. Click here to meet the keynote speaker, Jessica Maren.
Who should attend this event? This conference is designed for women across all industries and career stages, including emerging professionals, entrepreneurs, managers, executives and business owners looking to grow professionally and build meaningful connections.
Why should I attend this event? The Women in Business Conference is an opportunity to invest in your professional growth while connecting with women across industries and career stages. Attendees will gain practical insights, hear real experiences from business leaders, build valuable connections and leave feeling inspired, empowered and equipped with new ideas and resources.
Registration deadline
When is the deadline to register? Wednesday, June 24.
Where do I register? Click here to visit the Women in Business Conference registration page.
