Want to Start a Business But Have Questions?
Transition to Entrepreneurship Conference
January 12–15, 2026 | Online | Noon -2 EST Each Day
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Or maybe you have started your journey and are looking to grow.
Stage2Startups and NY Women in Business present the “Transition to Entrepreneurship” Conference designed exclusively for professionals like you—experienced, motivated, and eager to create something of your own.
Over four days online, you’ll learn from keynote speakers, expert panels, and network with peers who share your goals. Whether you’re considering starting a business, buying one, or scaling your venture, this conference will give you the clarity, tools, and connections you need.
Invest in yourself and join a game-changing conference that gives you the confidence to turn your dream into reality. This is your moment.
Who Should Attend?
Currently employed but feel stuck in your job and want a change
Retired but not ready to step back and relax
Unemployed and eager to turn your passion into a business
Early founders looking to connect with fellow founders
At Stage2Startups, our mission is Empowering individuals over 40 to transform their work and life experiences into successful businesses
Conference Schedule
Over four days, the 2026 Transition to Entrepreneurship Conference will guide you through the essential steps of launching and building a business.
Each day features a keynote session, expert panel discussions, and online networking opportunities.
It’s more than a conference—it’s your roadmap to turning your experience into your own business.
January 12
Theme: Are You Ready to Start a Business?
Keynote: What you need to know to successfully make the transition from working for others to working for yourself. Panel Discussion: Entrepreneurs Share Their Transition Experiences and Insights. Networking: Meet fellow entrepreneurs, ask questions, and learn from others.
January 13
Theme: Start a Business or Buy One?
Keynote: Should you start a business from scratch or buy an existing business or franchise? What is right for you? Panel Discussion: Entrepreneurs Share Their Startup Strategies and Insights. Networking: Meet fellow entrepreneurs, ask questions, and learn from others.
January 15
Theme: What Else Do You Need to Know to Keep Your Business Running Smoothly?
Keynote: What are the startup issues, from people to money, that no one tells you about? Panel Discussion: Entrepreneurs share the startup details that almost tripped them up. Networking: Meet fellow entrepreneurs, ask questions, and learn from others.
January 14
Theme: How Do You Attract and Keep Customers, Your Business’ Lifeblood?
Keynote: How do you attract and keep customers to sustain your business? Panel Discussion: Entrepreneurs Share Their Marketing Strategies and Insights. Networking: Meet fellow entrepreneurs, ask questions, and learn from others.
Why Attend?
Learn from expert founders, investors, and thought leaders.
Connect with a community of professionals on the same journey.
Gain practical strategies for launching, buying, or growing your business.
Explore the emotional, financial, and operational realities of entrepreneurship.
Your next chapter starts here!
Discover how to transform your skills and life experience into a business that reflects your passion and purpose.
As an attendee you get -
Access to all 4 days of programming
Keynotes + speaker panels
Networking sessions
Meet Our First Announced Speakers
We’re excited to kick off this year’s conference with a powerhouse lineup of featured speakers who bring experience, insight, and inspiration from across the entrepreneurial landscape.
Keynote Speakers
Deb Boulanger Founder, Life After Corporate
As the founder of Life After Corporate, Deb guides women in building six-figure consulting and coaching businesses that leverage their corporate experience—without sacrificing family, health, or joy. Her approach blends practical business growth strategy with deep personal transformation
Deb will guide attendees on what it takes to successfully make the transition from working for others to working for yourself.
Panelists
David Goldberg Founder, Edge Studio Voice Over
David is a high-impact communication expert trusted by CEOs, entrepreneurs, and professionals by providing practical, actionable advice that helps people make strong first impressions and build trust. David is a #1 best-selling co-author endorsed by Tony Robbins.
David will share proven strategies to attract, win, and keep customers.
Dave Garcia Founder, Veep
As the founder of Veep, Dave matches organizations with fractional executives to scale faster and smarter. Previously a startup CEO and an innovation leader at Verizon and frog, he has launched ventures, secured millions in funding, and turned emerging tech into real products.
Dave will share how to build durable, capital-efficient businesses that last.
John Mallen Founder, JMC Marketing Communications & PR
As founder of JMC Marketing Communications & PR, John leveraged his experience as a reporter and his work at premier PR firm, Hill & Knowlton, to open his own public relations firm over 38 years ago. During that time, he has counselled many founders as well as senior executives at Fortune 500 companies.
John will share what it is like to leave the structure of large organizations to work on his own ..
Rachel Roth Founder, OperaNuts
As the founder of OperaNuts, Rachel has always had her pulse on current trends in fashion and food. Rachel’s love of “delicious and nutritious” food evolved into launching several food companies over her entrepreneurial career. OperaNuts is the latest offering from this serial entrepreneur.
Rachel will discuss her tips and tricks for gaining customers and keeping them coming back.
Dr. Rowshanak Hashemiyoon Founder, Access to the Path
Dr. Hashemiyoon, founder of Access to the Path, is a credentialed computational, clinical, and behavioral neuroscientist. Known as “The People’s Neuroscientist™,” she translates complex science into practical strategies that support long-term success.
Dr. Hashemiyoon will share how founders can leverage brain-based insights to navigate transition and make high-stakes decisions with clarity, integrity, and confidence.
Evelyn Wilson Founder, Flow Together AI
As the founder of Flow Together AI, Evelyn blends technology, creativity, and strategic brand thinking to help organizations communicate with clarity and purpose. She empowers teams to tell authentic stories, strengthen connections, and design meaningful experiences.
Evelyn will share how businesses can successfully attract customers.
Greg Licciardi Professor and Author
As Vice President of Sponsorships and Partner Programs at the ANA, Association of National Advertisers, Greg consults with leading brands on how to elevate their marketing campaigns. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Marketing at Fordham and Seton Hall universities.
As the author of The Holy Grail of Marketing, Greg will share his knowledge on how to attract and engage customers
Ed Donnelly Former McDonald’s Franchisee
Ed started flipping burgers at McDonald's while he was in college and decided to let his work become his focus. When an opportunity arose for Ed to help "turn-around" a McDonald's, he ended up becoming a franchisee through a combination of "sweat equity" and savings.
Ed will share what it is like to be a McDonald's franchisee and what it is like to become an owner from an employee rising through the ranks.
Carolyn Katz Startup Advisor | Founder, Paddling Furiously
With two decades of experience across banking, venture capital, and entrepreneurship, Carolyn has advised dozens of startups, guiding companies from their very first financial decisions to scalable, well-structured operations.
Carolyn will discuss the different paths to starting a business. Which path is right for you?
Felipe Marinho Founder & Entrepreneur
As the founder of Soulphia, Felipe turned his own experience immigrating from Brazil into a mission to make English learning accessible to students worldwide.
Felipe now runs two successful online businesses while helping others achieve their version of the American Dream.
Felipe will talk about his experiences with building a business from scratch.
John Gordon Founder, USA Corporate Services, Inc.
As founder of USA Corporate Services Inc., John established a company formation agency dedicated to helping entrepreneurs navigate U.S. business formation. Over the years, he has built a trusted network of professionals of attorneys, CPAs, and advisors who specialize in helping founders succeed.
John will share his insights on how entrepreneurs can start strong and stay compliant.
Andreia Kaehl Entrepreneur | Podcast Host
As the founder of Ascere, Andreia empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs with the tools to succeed in business. A serial entrepreneur who has launched and scaled 10+ companies she is also a mentor with SCORE, NYU Stern, and CUNY Startups, and a podcast host.
Andreia will share how early-stage entrepreneurs can begin building businesses that last.
