Uptown Waterloo puts women leaders centre stage for International Women’s Day
The Uptown Waterloo Business Improvement Area (BIA), in partnership with the City of Waterloo, is expanding the International Women’s Day Market this year to include a featured speaker and leadership panel spotlighting women shaping Waterloo’s business and community landscape.
On Friday, March 6, the community is invited to attend In Full Bloom, a speaker and discussion at the International Women's Day Market, featuring keynote remarks from Melissa Durrell, Chair of the Uptown Waterloo BIA Board of Directors, followed by a panel discussion with prominent local women leaders.
The market is free to attend and will be open from 3 to 8 p.m. The speaker and panel discussion will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Seating is limited and advanced registration is encouraged.
This year’s event will also mark the launch of two new initiatives: a quarterly women’s entrepreneurs collective and a speakers bureau aimed at increasing visibility and opportunity for women leaders across Waterloo Region.
“This event reflects our commitment to building a complete community, one where local businesses, diverse voices and meaningful connections are supported and celebrated,” said City of Waterloo Mayor Dorothy McCabe, who will also serve as emcee for the evening. “We have proudly hosted this market each year to spotlight women-led small businesses and the important role they play in our local economy. It is exciting to see it continue to grow and expand in ways that further strengthen a vibrant Waterloo.”
“Uptown Waterloo thrives because of the leadership of women in our community,” said Melissa Durrell, Chair of the Uptown BIA. “This expanded event allows us to celebrate their contributions while creating meaningful space for important dialogue and connection.”
International Women’s Day is a global movement recognizing the achievements of women while advancing conversations around equity, leadership and opportunity. By combining marketplace visibility with thought leadership, this year’s event reflects Waterloo’s commitment to supporting women-led businesses and strengthening inclusive economic growth.
Event Details:
Friday, March 6
3 to 8 p.m.
The CIGI Campus
67 Erb St. W, Waterloo, ON N2L 6C2
Registration and event details:
Additional partners of the event include Waterloo Region Small Business Centre and Waterloo’s Women in Communication and Technology.
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ABOUT UPTOWN WATERLOO BIA
The Uptown Waterloo Business Improvement Area represents and supports businesses in the heart of Waterloo. Through events, advocacy, placemaking, and strategic partnerships, the BIA works to strengthen the local economy and position Uptown as a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, culture, and entrepreneurship.
ABOUT THE CITY OF WATERLOO
The City of Waterloo is committed to building a healthy, inclusive, and sustainable community. Through strategic planning, public services, and community partnerships, the City supports economic growth, innovation, and initiatives that enhance quality of life for residents and businesses.
ABOUT THE WATERLOO REGION SMALL BUSINESS CENTRE
The Waterloo Region Small Business Centre supports entrepreneurs and small business owners at every stage of growth. Through advisory services, training, and funding programs, the Centre helps individuals start, scale, and sustain successful businesses across the region.
ABOUT WOMEN IN COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY (WCT) – WATERLOO REGION
Women in Communication and Technology (WCT) Waterloo Region is a professional network dedicated to advancing women in communications, technology, digital media, and related fields. Through events, mentorship, and community-building initiatives, WCT supports leadership development and creates opportunities for women across the region.
Media Inquiries:
Name: Christy Bertrand
Email:Christy.Bertrand@waterloo.ca