Hodges University
4501 Colonial Boulevard
Fort Myers, FL 33966

May 17, 2008
 

Click here for a maps and directions.

From the I-75 North (ie.) Fort Myers/Tampa
Take Colonial Boulevard to the light at Winkler Extension. Turn right onto Winkler Extension. The first right will take you into Hodges University Parking lot. If, for some reason, the entrance is blocked, it would be necessary to take Colonial Boulevard further east and make the first u-turn you can make safely.

From the East
Take Colonial Boulevard 1.5 miles west of I-75. The entrance is on the right, just beyond the Amoco/BP gas station. If you miss this entrance, turn right onto Winkler Extension and the first right will take you into the Hodges University parking lot.

 

Who Should Attend:

• Women who want to start or grow their businesses
• Businesses that are interested in achieving the next level of growth and profitability

 
Conference Schedule:

8:30 a.m.   Check-in

9:00 a.m.   Welcome and Opening Remarks
     Commissioner Kathleen Passidomo, Esq., Florida Commission on the Status of Women
     Jan Brock, Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs, Hodges University


9:15 a.m.  1-2-3 's of Starting a Small Business
    by Mary Beth M. Clary, Esq., Partner,  Porter, Wright, Morris & Arthur, LLP
This session gives the basic “nuts and bolts” of creating, growing and sustaining a business. Participants will discuss the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur and receive practical information and resources for marketplace competitiveness. This session provides participants an opportunity to explore the legalities associated with a successful business. Topics covered are the various legal entities that one should consider in opening a business as well as the liability considerations that go along with operating a business.

10:30 a. m. Right on the Money
     by Colleen Kvetko, Executive Vice-President, Fifth Third Bank 
Participants will learn what the lender considers when assessing risks and rendering a favorable underwriting decision. Participants will be able to understand the importance of a sound business plan when requesting financing for their business. Learn the importance of proper bookkeeping from the beginning, how to track income and expenses, how to prepare for tax time, and what tools you can use to maintain accurate records.

11:15 a.m.  Panel Discussion: Florida Women Mean Business!
     Panelists, TBD
Commissioner Kathleen Passidomo, Moderator

12:30 p.m.  Conclusion
Please feel free to visit business displays throughout the morning.
 

A special thanks to:

 Visit the Florida Women Mean Business! Expo and talk to business experts from across South Florida!