Women’s Business Network

The Women’s Business Network (WBN) is a vibrant community of women in and beyond. Our mission is to connect, inspire, and empower women at every stage of their business journey — from start-ups to seasoned entrepreneurs — while strengthening our local economy and giving back to the community.

We meet the first Monday of every month to network, learn, and grow together.

Part of Something Bigger

The Women’s Business Network is a proud program of the Gem Community Economic Development Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

That means your participation helps us:

  • Empower women in business

  • Strengthen local businesses and entrepreneurship

  • Invest back into our community’s future

Upcoming Venues

For October and November, we are excited to gather at — a beautiful, locally-owned space that provides the perfect atmosphere for networking and collaboration.

Event Details & Format

Our monthly events are designed to give you both learning and connection time:

FORMAT

  • 5:00 – 5:30 PM | Check-In & Open Networking

  • 5:30 – 5:40 PM | Host Welcome

  • 5:40 – 6:25 PM | Keynote Speaker or Hands-On Networking/Activity

  • 6:25 – 7:00 PM | Open Networking & Conversations

Tickets are $20 per person and include light bites and non-alcoholic beverages.

RSVP by email or through our Facebook event, then pay at the door when you arrive.

Past Speakers

The Women’s Business Network has been going strong for over a year, welcoming incredible speakers and building a supportive community of local women.

Some of our past speakers include:

  • Lori Otter – Former First Lady of Idaho

  • Cassie Benson – Business Founder

  • Mary Zukin – Media Strategist

  • Stephanie Sterns, LMFT, LCPC – Mental Health Professional

  • Jaclyn Padgett – Vice President, 44 North Vodka

Sponsor an Event

Are you a local business looking to connect with our community of women in business? Sponsorship is available for $100 per event. Sponsors receive:

  • Recognition on our social media channels

  • 10 minutes to speak about your business during the event

  • Opportunity to bring promotional items, coupons, or giveaways

  • Brand exposure to a network of engaged, professional women

For sponsorship opportunities or more creative ways to feature your business, email us at gcwomensbusinessnetwork@gmail.com.

Meet Our Volunteer Leadership Committee

The Women’s Business Network is led entirely by a volunteer committee of local women who bring decades of experience in business, marketing, education, and community leadership.

Sarah Polk

  Sarah built a 20-year career in marketing, founding an international agency with clients such as Consumer Reports and Ammoland before selling the company in 2019. After a chapter in AI, she retired from tech at 40 and now runs Stone & Ground, an English-style bakery in Emmett where she weaves together her love of fresh-milled flour, herbs, teas, and traditional bakes.  

Susan Jenkins

With over 40 years of experience in education, Susan is an accomplished leader in curriculum design, educational administration, and community engagement. She holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from and advanced certifications in professional-technical education. Beyond the classroom, she is a seasoned consultant and co-founder of the Women’s Business Network, where she continues to foster innovation and local growth.

Angela Gabiola

  Born and raised in Emmett, Angela studied Business Marketing at the University of Idaho and went on to build an impressive career in the spirits industry. She helped lead Grey Goose Vodka from inception to a $2.8 billion acquisition within seven years, later serving in leadership roles from Sales to Vice President. Known for her communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills, Angela is a hands-on leader who drives business success through collaboration and vision.   

Tamara Walker

Raised in a large musical family in , Tamara has long called home. As the owner of two Main Street businesses and a founding member of the Women’s Networking Group, she is a cornerstone of the local community. Tamara brings invaluable experience in retail, relationship-building, and community leadership, strengthening Emmett through her dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.

Ember Hines

  With over 20 years of marketing leadership, Ember has directed major campaigns for Cumulus Media, the Ford Idaho Center, and venues in Colorado and Orlando. Today, she leads her own agency specializing in events, multimedia, and community partnerships. Her expertise in creating impactful connections continues to energize both businesses and community projects across Idaho.   

Amanda Dietz

  A San Francisco native and Boise State graduate, Amanda brings a rare blend of experiences spanning law enforcement, small business ownership, and real estate. Known for her discipline, leadership, and creative problem-solving, she is passionate about strengthening communities and championing small business development.  

Contact

For general information, event questions, or sponsorship inquiries, contact us at:
📧 gcwomensbusinessnetwork@gmail.com

Facebook Womens Business Network- Gem County https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563917999247

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