Community Events

Top 6 Lessons Learned at WBENC 2026 – And Why It Matters for Your Business

The West Hill Team spent an energizing week at WBENC 2026. It delivered exactly what great conferences should: fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and a few reminders that challenge the way we think about growth. From AI’s growing role in procurement to the enduring value of relationships and reputation, the conversations in Salt Lake City revealed where businesses need to focus to stay competitive. As a women-owned law firm that works alongside innovators, founders, and growing companies, we left with six takeaways that every business leader should be thinking about right now.

1. Shift from a Know-it-all to a Learn-it-all. 

Staying curious beats being the smartest person in the room. Day to day business issues are rapidly evolving and none of us have all the answers. Stay curious and open to change. Have a conversation that stretches your thinking.

2. Customer obsession still wins–full stop.  

Listen to your customers. Solve real problems–consistently. Corporates want to work with small businesses that are nimble, innovative, and prepared. . Small businesses should be prepared to articulate how they are different, the concrete value they deliver, and how they are positively impacting their communities. Overpromising is expensive. Contracts don’t flex just because your business is growing. Understand what you can deliver—and stand behind it. 

3. AI is already shaping procurement decisions.

Sourcing teams are using AI to find and filter vendors. Your digital presence is no longer marketing—it’s infrastructure. Be precise and consistent. Always test yourself: run sourcing tools against your own brand. If you don’t show up, you don’t exist. That said, AI can shortlist, but humans still choose. References, relationships, and outcomes matter.

4. Get your house in order for an exit – early.  

Sarah Noble from Wells Fargo moderated a panel about mergers and acquisitions and encouraged attendees to work with experts to get their business ready for exit.  Buyers reward readiness–and penalize gaps. M&A professionals are seeing meaningful valuation hits when companies aren’t prepared. Programs like WBENC Lift aren’t optional—they’re upside. 

5. Data drives everything—including your brand. 

Melissa Proctor (CMO, Atlanta Hawks) said it best: data is king. But the takeaway goes further—your brand must connect across every touchpoint and remain consistent. Protect your brand elements and take every opportunity to measure impact. If your story isn’t integrated, it’s forgettable. 

6. “I’m everyone’s wing woman.” People still win the room. 

Amy Acompara from Polaris Direct walked the walk at the WBENC conference by offering introductions, insights, and support to fellow WBEs. Business is—and always will be—about people helping people. Be the connector. Be generous with your time and your expertise. 

Navigating AI for Business – A Legal Perspective

West Hill recently returned from the 2025 WBENC National Conference in New Orleans, where we attended a notable panel: “Technology and Creativity for the Future.”  

Moderated by WBENC President and CEO Pamela Prince Eason, the panel featured insights from Brett Howroyd (ActOne), Diana Gonzalez (Amazon), and Kathy Golding (EY), each of whom shared how their organizations are using AI to fuel both business success and personal growth. 

A central theme of the session? Responsible innovation and ethical leadership are key to harnessing the opportunities presented by an AI-driven world.  

One panelist put it simply:

AI is like a car – you don’t need to know how the engine works in order to drive it.

We loved this analogy. But just like with driving, there’s a lot more to using AI in your business than simply knowing how to “turn it on.” You also need to understand the rules, responsibilities, and potential risks. Let’s break it down:

🚦What You Need to Know:

1. How the Car Works = AI Basics

How do I turn it on? Where is the gas cap located? What is the red warning light on the dashboard? Even if you don’t build cars, you still need to know the basics to drive one safely. The same goes for using AI.

For all AI tools — think ChatGPT, Otter.ai, Claude, and beyond–ask: 

• 💡What data was used to train the AI? Is it biased, proprietary, or outdated? 
• 💡What does the Acceptable Use Policy require? Are there limitations on how you can use the tool? 
• 💡Are your inputs confidential? Does the AI provider store, reuse, or train on your data?

2. Rules of the Road = AI Terms and Conditions and Applicable Laws

You can’t drive without a license or ignore the speed limit. Who has the right of way at an intersection? Likewise, when deploying AI in business processes, are there legal and contractual rules to follow? 

For AI technology used in your business – automation, customer chatbots, resume screening, etc:

• 💡Are your inputs or outputs being used to further train the AI models? 
• 💡Will the vendor agree to keep your business data confidential?  
• 💡Does this use of AI comply with applicable law (NYC, the EU Ai Act, state privacy regulations, etc.)?  

⚠️ A Crash Waiting to Happen . . .  

Just like driving, using AI comes with inherent risks. Here’s how to recognize and reduce them: 

3. Dangerous Road Conditions 

Sometimes AI models can hallucinate – or provide inaccurate outputs. Avoid deploying AI unmonitored in high-risk areas, including: 

• Recruitment and employment decisions 
• Safety-critical or regulatory compliance tasks 
• Monitoring or controlling critical infrastructure 
   
  ❗Risk Mitigation: Use human oversight and verification. Don’t let AI operate autonomously in high-stakes environments. 

4. Driver Error

Business teams can – and do – make mistakes when using AI. Common issues include:  

• Entering confidential information into public AI platforms 
• Failing to QA AI-generated outputs 
• Violating data privacy or employment laws when using AI tools (like meeting note transcription software) 
  
  ❗Risk Mitigation: Create a comprehensive AI Use Policy for your business. Tailor additional policies for specialized teams like HR, Legal, or Software Development, as needed. r a winter trip.

5. Distracted Driving

AI can be a helpful tool, but overreliance can dull innovation and open you to IP risks:  

• AI-generated content may infringe third-party copyrights  
• Materials generated heavily (e.g. marketing content or code) may not be eligible for copyright protection 
• The USPTO and other agencies are issuing new guidance on AI and patentability 
  
  ❗Risk Mitigation: Train employees on the intersection of AI and IP and maintain oversight when using AI in creative or strategic work. 

To stretch the analogy a bit further . . . 
6. 🚗 Going All-in on Cars = AI Development 

Some businesses aren’t just driving the car – they’re building or customizing them. If your company is integrating or developing AI products (e.g. LLMs, chatbots, APIs), you’re playing a different game. 

For AI product development: 

• 💡Do AI vendors terms limit your ability to build AI offerings? (e.g. Geographic or age-based restrictions) 
• 💡What AI-related disclaimers or notices must you provide to end users? 
• 💡Are your AI vendors meeting data privacy and security standards? 
  
  ❗Risk Mitigation: If your company is “manufacturing” with AI, you must understand the equivalent of emissions rules, safety standards and warranty obligations. Building AI into your offering requires a higher level of due diligence – and a robust compliance framework. 

🧠 Final Thoughts

AI holds tremendous promise – but businesses must navigate this landscape with legal insight and operational care. Whether you are a casual driver or full-blown automaker in the AI economy, staying informed and compliant is the only way to drive growth safely and stay in control. 

WBENC 2025: A Week of Connection, Celebration, and Community

The 2025 WBENC National Conference in New Orleans was was a powerful and inspiring gathering of Women-Owned Businesses (WBEs), corporate partners and industry leaders. From the moment we arrived to the final farewell, the week was filled with energy, empowerment, and unforgettable moments—both joyful and deeply meaningful.

Celebrating and Honoring a Powerful Leader

While the week overflowed with excitement, an unmistakable reflection of the passion and momentum driving the WBENC community, it was followed by heartbreaking news: the sudden and tragic loss of WBENC President and CEO, Pamela Prince-Eason.

Pam’s presence throughout the week in New Orleans was felt deeply. She led, as she has for decades, with strength, grace, and a commitment that has defined her legacy. A visionary leader, tireless advocate, and unwavering supporter of women-owned businesses, Pam inspired throusands with her dedication to changing the narrative and creating space for women to thrive.

With more than 4,800 conference attendees—including over 2,500 certified women-owned businesses—the conference reflected years of innovation and intentional growth, much of it driven by Pam, her dedicated team, and her incredible network. The programming, connection, and impact of this year’s event were a testament to her leadership.

This unforgettable week served to elevate the voices, visibility, and networks of women entrepreneurs, reinforcing their role as key drivers of economic growth. West Hill is honored to have participated in such a meaningful event, and we remain committed to supporting the vibrant WBENC community.

As we celebrate the success of the 2025 conference, we also remember and honor Pam Prince-Eason–her vision, her leadership, and her enduring legacy. Her impact will be felt for generation, and we are grateful to have been a part of the community she so powerfully built.

Monday, June 23rd, General Session Kick-off and RPO Meet up

The conference was kicked off with an energizing General Session to set the tone for an inspiring week of connection, innovation and empowerment. Louise Kennedy represented West Hill Technology Counsel and welcomed the Center for Women & Enterprise group as a member of the Host Committee. The group joined together to build the Northeast RPO float with the theme: “To Plant a Seed is to Believe in Tomorrow.” The meet-up was followed by the float parade where the group tossed New England themed candy, Boston Baked Beans and Mary Janes, to the crowd.

The West Hill Team Kicked of the WBENC Conference in Style!

The West Hill team laced up their favorite kicks and hit the Sneaker Jam to kick off the 2025 WBENC National Conference with style, sparkle, and serious energy!

This high-vibe evening was the perfect mix of fun and purpose–with dinner, music and a vibrant Women Owned Pop-up Shop featuring so many incredible brands to explore and support. From blingling out our sneakers to connecting with fellow WBEs and corporate partners, Sneaker Jam set the tone for an inspiring week ahead.

Corporate Meet & Greets, Industry Labs and Women Owned Pop-Up Shop

Tuesday included a jam packed day of Corporate Meet & Greets, Industry Labs, expo booth set-up and finished up with an evening event to celebrate the Community Resource Groups.

Wednesday Highlights from the WBENC Confernce

Wednesday kicked off with an energizing General Session, followed by the highly anticipated opening of the Expo floor–and the West Hill team was ready!

We had a blast meeting and connecting with fellow attendees throughout the day. Our booth turned into a hub of friendly competition with our paper airplane toss contest–a fun way to spark conversations and add a little extra excitement to the expo experience.

Many stopped by to chat and give it their best shot at hitting the target…but only a few skilled flyers walked away with the prizes!

It was a day full of meaningful connections, great energy, and of course, a bit of paper airplane fun. We’re so grateful to be a part of this incredible community of women entrepreneurs and supporters.

Thursday Recap: Momentum and Meaningful Conversations

On Thursday, the West Hill booth was buzzing with even more energy, connection, and inspiration. The paper airplane toss kept the fun going, sparking conversations and plenty of laughs, while meaningful business discussion continued to take flight.

We loved seeing familiar faces return and new ones stop by to share ideas, stories, and a little friendly competition. It’s been incredible to watch how a simple activity can open the door to impactful conversations.

Thursday Evening: Masquerade Magic to Close out an Incredible Week

On Thursday evening, the West Hill team donned some masks and joined fellow attendees for a spectacular Masquerade on the Bayou at the Grand Oaks Mansion. The evening was the perfect way to close out an unforgettable week–filled with dinner, music, fun and most importantly, meaningful conversations and lasting connections.

It was a celebration of the vibrant WBENC community and the powerful spirit of women in business. We’re grateful for every moment, and especially the incredible people we met along the way.

COMMUNITY EVENTS: Better Together–The Power of Partnering and Mentoring in Times of Uncertainty

On Wednesday, October 9th, 2024, the North Shore Technology Council (NSTC), held its Third Annual Women in Technology Forum: Better Together–The Power of Partnerships and Mentoring in Times of Uncertainty. Louise Kennedy, West Hill’s Founding Attorney, moderated the panel of inspiring women who discussed their entrepreneurial journeys while highlighting key mentoring and partnership stories from their careers.

The Speakers and Their Stories

The evening started with an inspiring keynote from Julie Chen, Ph.D., Chancellor at UMass Lowell, focused on partnerships with stories from her personal and professional journeys. She highlighted LINC, the Lowell Innovation Network Corridor, which was the result of more than a decade of developing public and private partnerships. This project is an excellent example of multiple stakeholders sharing a vision of mentoring and inspiring the next generation of STEM students and bringing top innovators to the City of Lowell.

Louise Kennedy introduced the panel and told the story of West Hill and some key mentors, mentees, and partnerships from her professional journey. “The firm remains committed to supporting and elevating women in the legal community and in the technology businesses we work with,” said Louise. Louise concluded the panel discussion with a challenge to the room to write down and connect with a mentor or mentee today who impacted your career.

The room was buzzing as the panel answered questions and told their own stories of mentorship and partnership– both successes and failures. The panel included:  Elise Strobach, Ph.D., CEO & Co-Founder at AeroShield Materials, Elizabeth Graham, J.D., CEO at Ada IQ, Amanda Wagner, President &CEO at Immunitas Therapeutics and Martha Farmer, Ph.D., EVP & Board Member at VirTech Bio.

The NSTC and the Event Sponsors

The evening concluded with remarks from NSTC President, Gene Wong, the Dean of Science & Technology at Endicott College. For more information on the North Shore Technology Counsel please follow the NSTC on LinkedIn and visit NSTC.org for more info on joining their community and events.

West Hill Technology Counsel is a proud supporter of NSTC along with the following sponsors of this event: Endicott College, Cohn Reznick, Applied Materials, Cummings Properties, Integrative Leadership Strategies, Ci Software Staffing, Bond Building, Cross Insurance and Green Path Strategies.