Airdrie and Crossfield Chambers partner for second Rural Women in Business Conference

Crossfield and Airdrie Chamber of Commerce’s annual Rural Women in Business Conference is making a return on June 22 to offer a day of networking and learning among female business leaders around the region.

 The event will be in-person, being held at the Crossfield and District Community Hall, featuring keynote speaker Leslie Horton of Global News Calgary, business exhibits, food and networking opportunities. 

Marilyn Aalhus, executive director of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, said the full-day event will have a lot in store for women in business to learn and engage with one another. 

“There will be lots of great food and beverages, we have some great workshop facilitators with six different topics to choose from, and we have lots of door prizes,” said Aalhus. 

“During our lunch we network and get to know each other, and we have a fantastic panel discussion from business leaders of (Airdrie and Crossfield),” she said. 

Both Chambers are looking forward to having the event in-person, as Aalhus said the virtual format limited what could be achieved. 

“This is the full package. Not only are you going to be inspired by great workshops and learn from professionals, but also hear (Horton) speak about her life as a broadcast journalist, working mom, and her recovery through cancer,” said Aalhus. 

“It’s truly going to have an emotional draw, which a virtual event typically doesn’t have to the same level,” she said. 

“We’re asking (attendees) to come with their information to share and support one another, and most importantly, to connect. We want people to meet in-person and get the chance to promote their business and get to know their community.” 

For an additional $75, business owners can opt in for an exhibitor booth, which have limited availability. 

Aalhus said it was to give women in business the chance to showcase their products and services. 

“It’s an opportunity to bring products, make sales, and showcase what you have to offer,” she said. 

Crossfield Chamber of Commerce first introduced the event in 2020, with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce partnering for the first time in 2021. Over 150 people attended virtually last year, but ticket prices increased because of the venue booking and food offered. 

The event is open to all women, Chamber members and non-members alike. Registration for in-person attendance is $95, and $115 for non-members. 

Tickets are also being sold to virtually attend Horton’s presentation from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. for $60 for Chamber members and $80 for non-members. 

The registration deadline is Friday, June 17. 

Aalhus encourage any women with an interest in business to participate. 

“It’s going to have a feminine touch. It’s going to have a beautiful design, and it’s going to be a fun event for all women of all different levels,” she said. 

“This is for any working mom, or any business startup. It’s really for everyone.” 

More information and registration can be found at airdriechamber.ab.ca.