NAWBO Wisconsin's 3rd Annual Business Readiness Program

Join us for the 3rd Annual NAWBO Wisconsin Business Readiness Program, an empowering evening of insights, strategies, and connections to help you end the year strong and step boldly into 2026.

This interactive panel discussion will be moderated by CeCe Renee Brown of C. Renee Consulting and will feature a powerful lineup of panelists:

1. Brandy Riley of Riley Design Studio – Marketing & Branding
2. Amanda Nowak of Nowak Leadership Coaching – Leadership Development
3. Melissa Gregory of Automation BirdDog – Technology, Automation & Human-Centered AI

Whether you’re focused on elevating your leadership, preparing for digital transformation, or strengthening your brand, you’ll walk away with practical tools and fresh perspectives to fuel your business readiness.

Bonus: Attendees will have a chance to win our signature Business Readiness Gift Basket, filled with tools and resources from our panelists and NAWBO members. (Must be present to win.)

About Melissa Gregory

With an engineering degree and certifications in Lean Six Sigma, Executive Leadership, and Digital Transformation, Melissa Gregory brings over 20 years of supply chain and technology operations expertise. Described as a "sherpa" by her clients, she guides teams through automation with empathy, helping them embrace their vital human roles in modernized processes. Her professional services include process and data engineering and tailored training to drive impactful automation adoption.

About Amanda Nowak

Amanda Nowak is a serial entrepreneur who experienced extreme burnout while building a seven-figure decor business. After making some major changes, she was able to decrease her 70+ hour work weeks to 20, increase profits, and create a life that aligned with her values. Amanda now empowers women to find the space in their lives and businesses to take care of themselves and design fulfilling lives.

About Brandy Riley

Brandy Riley is the founder of Riley Design Studio, specializing in crafting branding and digital experiences for businesses. Since launching her studio, Brandy has committed herself to empowering entrepreneurs by transforming their brand visions into tangible, resonant assets. With over a decade of experience in graphic design and branding, she offers a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on creative solutions that drive substantial business results.

In addition to her work at Riley Design Studio, Brandy serves as the Membership Chair for the NAWBO Wisconsin chapter, where she dedicates her efforts to supporting and empowering women business owners. Her role includes organizing events, facilitating networking opportunities, and promoting growth and development among women entrepreneurs.

About CeCe Renee Brown

Cynthia "CeCe" Brown leads C. Renee Consulting and Management Group LLC, an award-winning social assistance and consulting firm headquarters in Milwaukee with additional operations in Dane County, Wisconsin.

She brings 20 + years of significant consulting and community leadership expertise in both non-profit and governmental agencies. She is dedicated to nurturing, developing and

empowering jobseekers, people with disabilities, entrepreneurs, and businesses to see their dreams become reality.

As Milwaukee's foremost business and tax strategist, Ms. Brown delivers exceptional expertise in technical assistance, business development, operational efficiency, and financial management. Her commitment to community empowerment is embodied in her guiding principle: "Eradicating poverty through entrepreneurship."

Wisconsin Connects is a recurring monthly meeting that provides educational and networking events to encourage members to come together regularly. Mark your calendars for the 4th Tuesday of each month! Connects is FREE to members.

The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) offers women-owned businesses a national and local platform to tap into the power of an established community of successful women entrepreneurs and the chance to raise your voice to effect change and influence the business community.

As one of the largest NAWBO Chapters in the U.S., NAWBO Chicago offers women the power and benefits to hone their leadership skills at both the local and national levels. Whether a solopreneur or a million-dollar business, NAWBO Chicago gives women-owned businesses of all levels the resources and support to help them grow. NAWBO Chicago provides opportunities to: connect with an established national organization that offers a local experience; navigate all stages of business and entrepreneurial growth; and make your voice heard locally and nationally.

Host or Publisher NAWBO Chicago