By Jackie Stiles, Vice President of Business Development & Special Programs, GRCA
When you hear the names Women2Women (W2W) or Family Business Alliance (FBA), you might assume these programs are for very specific audiences—women-only or traditional family-owned businesses. But don’t let the name fool you. These GRCA signature initiatives are intentionally designed to be inclusive, accessible and impactful for a wide range of professionals, businesses and organizations across Greater Reading and beyond.
At their core, both W2W and FBA are about connection, empowerment and growth. Whether you’re a student discovering your path, a business owner looking for innovative ideas or a nonprofit leader trying to expand your impact—these programs were made for you.
W2W: Power through diverse perspectives
W2W isn’t just a women’s networking group—it’s a movement for everyone who believes in equity, leadership and professional development. This year’s programming is a perfect example of that broader reach.
In January, W2W hosted an Artificial Intelligence session featuring expert speaker Sarah McDaniel. This wasn’t just a talk about technology; it was a forward-thinking, engaging and practical session that drew a diverse crowd—from students and startups to bankers, business owners, nonprofit professionals and educators. Regardless of gender or industry, attendees walked away with tangible insights they could immediately apply in their careers and businesses.
W2W provides a platform for thought-provoking conversation, leadership development and honest storytelling. Yes, it’s designed with women in mind—but everyone benefits. By fostering a space where different voices and experiences are celebrated, W2W creates powerful learning moments and meaningful connections that transcend industries and backgrounds.
FBA: A resource for businesses that “feel like family”
Similarly, many businesses may not realize they align with FBA simply because they don’t see themselves as a “traditional” family-owned business. But what if we redefined what “family” means in the context of business?
If your company is run like a family business, has a strong internal culture or is a closely held or small business—then the FBA is for you. Whether you’re preparing for succession, navigating challenging business transitions or seeking leadership support, FBA offers expert-led learning sessions, peer groups and story-driven events that meet you where you are.
From hearing how a business owner got fired by his grandmother only to return as the company’s successful leader, to learning best practices for employee handbooks and conflict resolution—FBA brings real-world advice into every room it enters.
The big picture
At the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA), we believe success is fueled by community, learning and shared experience. Our signature programs—W2W and FBA—might have niche names, but their impact is universal. Whether you’re early in your career or leading a multi-generational company, whether you work in finance, education, healthcare or hospitality—there’s something for you in every event we host.
These programs are not exclusive—they are expansive. They are built on the idea that learning from one another, across backgrounds and industries, is the best way to grow as individuals and as a business community.
So, the next time you see an invitation from W2W or FBA, don’t wonder if you belong. Know that you do.