On Aug. 14, Sprout CoWorking was the host (for the fourth time!) to a Rhode Island Inno event, dubbed Women in Inno.
As you've come to expect at Inno events, we began the night with appetizers, drinks and ample time for networking. Then, yours truly took to the stage to moderate panel of four speakers: Kiara Butler, CEO of Diversity Talks; Chandra Briggman, director of Venture Café Cambridge and Providence; Erica Davies, co-founder and VP of operations at Trilix; and Christine Smith, managing director of innovation, Rhode Island Commerce Corporation.
Questions included "What are the challenges you face as women in innovation?" (Davies mentioned that there just aren't enough women getting involved and apply for tech jobs); "How do you uplift and encourage other women entrepreneurs outside of work?" (Briggman explained that she made sure to tell others — and practiced herself — pouring out into other women as she worked on pursuing her own goals); "What’s the best piece of advice you have received or given?" (Butler talked about embracing what you don't know and making things up as you go along); and "Where do you see the ecosystem in the next five years?" (Smith said that the community will continue its forward momentum).
After the panel discussion, attendees were able to ask questions of the speakers, and everything from how members of the Rhode Island ecosystem can give back to its leaders, the importance of going out and socializing with other entrepreneurs and where to find diverse, dynamic talent was discussed.
The evening was incredibly insightful and valuable, and we couldn't have done it with you, Rhode Island Inno readers, Sprout CoWorking as our incredible hosts and our wise panelists.
Lastly, I would be remiss not to thank our sponsors, Rhode Island Inno founding partner Cox Business and event partner Amica Insurance.
