2026 - Q3 Women Business Owner's Council meeting

The Women Business Owners Council (WBOC) supports established women entrepreneurs as they grow, scale, and strengthen their businesses across Southeastern North Carolina. Programming focuses on business development, strategic growth, and long-term sustainability through high-value learning opportunities, peer-to-peer exchange, and practical guidance for the unique challenges women business owners face.
 
Membership is open to women business owners in Southeastern North Carolina who are members of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. To participate, businesses must have been operating for at least one year and employ at least one W-2 or 1099 team member.
 
In September, WBOC welcomes Karen Barefoot, a nationally recognized leadership speaker, former NCAA championship coach, and business executive, for a program focused on motivating and developing high-performing teams. Throughout her career, Karen has led organizations through growth, change, and sustained success—first as one of the most accomplished coaches in collegiate athletics and now as Director of Business Development at Industrial Reliability and Repair (IRR). Drawing from decades of experience building winning cultures, developing talent, and driving results, Karen will share practical strategies business owners can use to inspire employees, strengthen accountability, and create teams that perform at their highest level.
 
We extend sincere thanks to sponsor Brooke Skipper and Salt Air Heating and Cooling for their continued support. We are also grateful for the leadership of 2026 Chair Sabrina Davis of Port City Signs and Co-Chair Stephanie Bolton of Patriot Roofing.
 

 
2026 Meeting Dates
 
All meetings are held from 10:00–11:30 am at the Wilmington Chamber office.
·      March 5
·      June 9
·      September 2
·      November 5