Chicago’s Premier Event for Emerging Women Leaders
Launchpad – Where Emerging Women Leaders Take Their Place at the Table.
Step into a day designed to ignite possibility and accelerate the rise of women leaders. This summit isn’t just about professional development—it’s about unlocking the next level of leadership for directors and vice presidents ready to claim their path to the C-suite. Through powerful stories, actionable strategies, and hard-won insights from women who have broken through barriers, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to lead with impact and vision.
But this experience goes beyond skill-building—it’s about community, recognition, and inspiration. You’ll connect with a powerful network of women who are walking the same path, as well as accomplished leaders who have paved the way ahead. Together, you’ll celebrate ambition, forge lasting relationships, and expand your circle of influence. For organizations, this summit is a moment to honor and empower high-potential talent. For participants, it’s a chance to rise higher, dream bigger, and accelerate the journey to leadership at the very top.
- Monday, September 14, 2026
- 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Hyatt Regency Hotel, Chicago
- Includes networking luncheon and reception following the program.
2026 Sessions:
Session One: Enterprise Leadership
Jodi Blackwood, Managing Director, Practice Leader, ZRG Consulting.
Description: This session enhances participants’ ability to think and act as enterprise leaders. Participants gain a clearer understanding of what it means to operate from an enterprise leadership lens and what they need to do to adopt an enterprise leadership approach. Participants reflect on the shifts they can make in their mindset, behaviors, actions, and capabilities to show up as enterprise leaders and develop a plan for making those shifts.
Session Two: A Seat at the Table: Mastering Your Keynote & Communication Skills
Meridith Elliott Powell a prominent business strategist, keynote speaker, and author who specializes in leadership, sales, and business growth, will lead the Public Speaking Session. Past Chair: She served as the Chair of the National Speakers Association (beginning January 2024).
More sessions and speakers to be announced!
What People are Saying About Launchpad:
Great mix of soft skills that are vital for strong leadership and genuine discussions and connections fostering networking.
Speakers were outstanding. The topics were related to my career and the people I work with. I was able to take something away from each session.
It is great to have dedicated time focusing on leadership and discussion with other leaders. It’s brainstorming and reflection that helps center you in the kind of professional you want to be, among the chaos of day- to-day work.
2026 Universe Sponsors
2026 Rocket Sponsors
