Chanin Walsh

Founder of President of the Bucks County Women’s Business Forum and Creative Director at Ampersand Design, Inc. Doylestown Community Involvement includes First Friday Doylestown, Doylestown BluBall, Bucks County Historical Society


Why did you start the Women’s Business Forum?
Entrepreneurs in the Bucks county area needed a place to meet and interact that did not charge you to be a member, a place where two people in the same industry use each other as resources rather than view each other as competition, and most of all where the focus is all about building your business.

What kind of services does it provide?
The WBF offers one hour speaking presentations twice a month (morning and evening) focused on entrepreneurial challenges, our book club meets once a month and discusses business releases on the best sellers list. Most importantly we offer support and mentoring for women Entrepreneurs.

What is the most unusual situation the forum has addressed?
Our discussions vary from how to start a business with limited capital, to how to conquer the fear and find the resources to franchise a successful business. And everything in between!

Do men ever express an interest in joining?
We have had numerous men speakers and there are men in our group, they find it a very supportive environment also.

Are there insights women have into business that you wish men would have?
One thing that we enjoy as a group is encouraging people in the same profession to support and mentor each other. This has been very successful for many of us. It creates a wonderful resource and support network for the entrepreneur that is very often working solo.

What are some of the special concerns of women entrepreneurs?
Some of the hot topics have been making a first hire, time management, delegating, self-promotion, marketing, advancement in education and certifications, and the importance of writing a business plan. We strive to address these concerns during our meetings. Meeting dates and topics can be found at www.womensbusinessforum.org


Tell us about the annual BluBall.
Six years ago, myself and good friend Jonathon McSurdy wanted to host a charity event that was inexpensive and fun. This year on Sept 30th we will host our 6th annual BluBall event. Each year the proceeds go to a different charity. We raise about 5,000 every year, It is not one of the huge money makers in town, but it definitely has a following because of how FUN the event is. And after six years the funds we have raised have added up, so we feel great about that! Pictures of past events and tickets are at www.bluball.com


You were involved with the creation of First Friday Doylestown.
How did that all come about?
Because of my initiative with the WBF, and involvement with the BluBall, two Doylestown area merchants Judy Dixon and Kathy Moniot shared with me their vision of a Doylestown First Friday. With the help of some of the women from the entrepreneurs group in areas such as graphic design and marketing, we laid out a plan for first Friday, developed a media kit and brand identity, and produced the popular First Friday Doylestown yellow flags. Once First Friday was up and running strong, I turned my focus back to the Entrepreneurs group. I was happy to help get the event going, and am very pleased at its continued success!