Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship Conference

November 12-13, 2025 | Pensacola, FL

EntreCon 2025

Become a part of our journey as we present the 2025 annual EntreCon® Conference, themed “Embracing Collective Growth.”

This year’s event features an inspiring lineup of speakers, engaging workshops, and dynamic networking opportunities—all centered on the power of shared purpose in driving personal, professional, and community growth.

We believe that meaningful, lasting change happens when we work together—because when we grow together, we rise together.

About EntreCon

5 Reasons Why EntreCon Rocks

EntreCon® is local. If you wanted to attend a conference in another city, there would be travel arrangements, hotel and food reimbursements, and time away from your family. This makes EntreCon® a great option for small businesses looking to invest in their employees without breaking the bank.

What it’s like to attend EntreCon
EntreCon Awards 2023
Talent Pathway Planning
Entrecon 2024 Voices, Shaping Our Future
Entrecon 2024 PLT Day 2 Tim Kinsella

Our EntreCon 2025 Speakers

Each year, EntreCon® provides 400+ attendees with a front-row seat to both local and national speakers and workshop leaders! Learn more about our speakers below.

Quint
Studer

Founder of SCI,
Co-Founder & Partner
of HealthCare Plus
Solutions Group

Joe
Steier

President/CEO
Signature HealthCARE

Amelie
Karam

Millennial Consultant
and Specialist

Veronique
Zayas

Founder/Owner
HatchMark Studio

Therese
Gopaul-Robinson

Performance
Acceleration Strategist,
Professional Speaker

Quint Studer

Founder of SCI, Co-Founder & Partner of HealthCare Plus Solutions Group

Quint is a lifelong student of leadership. He worked for multiple healthcare systems, the last stop being president of Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, FL. In 2000, he founded Studer Group, a healthcare and education coaching company that received the 2010 Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Award. The company was sold in 2015, and Quint left in 2016.

He went on to found the Studer Community Institute, a not-for-profit whose mission is to improve the quality of life for people. He is a current Partner of HealthCare Plus Solutions Group, which focuses on diagnosing the most urgent pain points of an organization, collaboratively designing solutions, and helping in the implementation of the solutions.

Quint has authored many books, with several listed-on bestseller lists. He serves on various healthcare boards and is a frequent speaker, workshop facilitator, and mentor to individuals and organizations. The tools and techniques Quint has created over the years are now staples in healthcare systems throughout the world.

Joe Steier

President/CEO Signature HealthCARE

Joe is a dynamic healthcare entrepreneur and business leader who has helped found many startup companies, owned various small businesses and continues to provide advisory services to various profit and non-profit boards while becoming an author, public speaker and a respected healthcare expert.

During two decades of healthcare leadership, he has founded Professional Healthcare Services, a specialized strategic planning and reimbursement consulting firm, and helped build Home Quality Management (HQM) from a small, family-owned nursing home chain to a top 20 regional chain focused on quality of life. Mr. Steier was President and Chief Operating Officer until HQM was sold in 2007, and has since served as a co-founder, President and CEO of  Signature HealthCARE.

Amelie Karam

Millennial Consultant and Specialist

Amelie combines her generation specialist expertise with her musical theatre performance background to inform, educate and entertain her audiences. Amelie speaks and consults both nationally and internationally about how organizations and industries can better work together to attract, retain and ultimately, bring together the different generations.  Through her work over the last 10 years, Amelie has helped industries and organizations improve their culture, employee satisfaction, staff retention, and overall, elevate their organizations.

Veronique Zayas

Founder/Owner, HatchMark Studio

“The Power of Brand Story in the Age of AI”

Veronique founded HatchMark Studio in 2015 to create the kind of agency she’d want to work at, rooted in purpose, creativity, and collaboration. She leads client strategy, brand positioning, and business development, helping brands cut through the noise with clarity and consistency. Passionate about thoughtful AI integration, she explores how technology can scale storytelling without losing the human touch. Her guiding belief: great brands connect deeply, and connection always starts with people.

Therese Gopaul-Robinson

Security Stacking Creator, Confidence & Leadership Speaker

“Design, Don’t Drift: Security Stacking for Real-World Confidence”

Therese works with organizations that want to stay ahead of the competition by developing confident, impactful leaders who fuel better performance, stronger engagement, and lasting success.

Through her unique approach, she helps leaders dismantle insecurity stacking, and build a foundation of intentionality, evidence, and action—the Security Stacking TM blueprint for transformative leadership.

With a background in healthcare leadership and over 20 years of experience, Therese has seen firsthand how confidence—or the lack of it—impacts decision-making, team dynamics, and organizational outcomes.

Her mission is to equip leaders with the mindset and tools to navigate uncertainty, make bold decisions, and inspire their teams to thrive.


Tuesday, November 11

6:00amSunrise Spin Class with Ride Society
7:30amDoors Open, Coffee and Networking
8:30amElevate Your Expectations to Climb to New Heights
Rohan Freeman – Pensacola International Airport
10:00:amBreak
Centennial Bank
10:15amMaking the Most of Your Leadership: Drive Your Business Forward in an Uncertain World
Jennifer McCollum – Step One Automotive
11:30amLunch
11:30amLunch + Learn: Taking Critical Conversations from Difficult to Doable
Noelle White
12:30pmPanel: Using People, Place and Purpose to Drive a Communitys Economy
Bailey T. Pope, AIA – Rohan Freeman – Tosh Belsinger – J. Alistair McKenzie – Baptist Health Care

Wednesday, November 12

6:00amSunrise Spin Class with Ride Society
7:30amDoors Open, Coffee and Networking
8:30amElevate Your Expectations to Climb to New Heights
Rohan Freeman – Pensacola International Airport
10:00:amBreak
Centennial Bank
10:15amMaking the Most of Your Leadership: Drive Your Business Forward in an Uncertain World
Jennifer McCollum – Step One Automotive
11:30amLunch
11:30amLunch + Learn: Taking Critical Conversations from Difficult to Doable
Noelle White
12:30pmPanel: Using People, Place and Purpose to Drive a Community’s Economy
Bailey T. Pope, AIA – Rohan Freeman • Tosh Belsinger – J. Alistair McKenzie – Baptist Health Care

Thursday, November 13

6:00amSunrise Spin Class with Ride Society
7:30amDoors Open, Coffee and Networking
8:30amElevate Your Expectations to Climb to New Heights
Rohan Freeman – Pensacola International Airport
10:00:amBreak
Centennial Bank
10:15amMaking the Most of Your Leadership: Drive Your Business Forward in an Uncertain World
Jennifer McCollum – Step One Automotive
11:30amLunch
11:30amLunch + Learn: Taking Critical Conversations from Difficult to Doable
Noelle White
12:30pmPanel: Using People, Place and Purpose to Drive a Community’s Economy
Bailey T. Pope, AIA – Rohan Freeman – Tosh Belsinger – J. Alistair McKenzie – Baptist Health Care

EntreCon 2025 Awards

We invite you to join us for an in-person Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11 from 5:00-6:00 p.m. CST at the Pensacola Little Theatre. The 2025 EntreCon® Awards are meant to recognize the achievements and economic impact leaders and businesses have on a community.

The categories aim to honor businesses at every stage in their life cycle, from start-ups to large corporations.

From those who have championed the cause to those who have turned adversity into success in another chapter of their lives, these awards will honor small, medium and large business owners.

2025 EntreCon® Award nominations will be opened shortly. Join us to find out the winners on November 11th. You can claim your free awards ceremony ticket here.

Rodney Jackson Minority-Owned Business of the Year

This award recognizes a minority-owned small business that has attained outstanding business achievement while showing social responsibility, creativity, and leadership; all to improve and grow the community.

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Veteran-Owned Business of the Year  

This award recognizes a veteran-owned small business that has attained outstanding business achievement while showing social responsibility, creativity, and leadership; all to improve and grow the community.  

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Female Owned Business of the Year

This award recognizes a women-owned small business that has attained outstanding business achievement while showing social responsibility, creativity, and leadership; all to improve and grow the community. 

2024 Winner

 2024 Runner Up

View More Winners

Emerging Business of the Year 

This award is open to businesses who have started in the last two years and have had success introducing their product or service. Businesses recognized in this category are run by great leadership, show a promising vision for the future, and have created a mission statement that aligns with their core values. 

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Small Business of the Year

This award is open to businesses who have less than 50 employees that focus on employee inclusion, community involvement and innovation in their business practices. Businesses considered for this award can clearly explain what makes their product or service unique, how they measure success and what opportunities they provide their employees

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Large Business of the Year

This award is open to businesses who have more than 50 employees that has been able adaptable to change over the past year, has displayed economic growth, and provides opportunities for their employees to improve their skills in an ever-changing environment.

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Non-Profit of the Year 

This award recognizes a nonprofit organization that shows dedication for improving the quality of life in the community through volunteering, partnerships, or fundraising. Winners will be able to share how they have effectively used these skills to further their mission and improve the community.  

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Entrepreneur of the Year

This award recognizes an entrepreneur who has a creative product or service that solves a problem in the marketplace. They are highly ambitious, serve as community leaders, and work to improve the quality of life for others through either employment or serving others. 

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Employer of the Year

This award is for businesses with an outstanding and supportive work environment with a focus on great training programs, an understanding of work-life balance, and career progression. Employers recognized in this category inspire and motivate their growing, diverse staff with equal opportunity programs. 

2024 Winner

2024 Runner Up

Excellence in Mentorship

This award recognizes a person who has dedicated themselves to helping others through mentoring. Their level of experience affords them the ability to have a significant impact on the professional development and career advancement of those they mentor. 

2024 Winner

John Myslak Award for Servant Leader

This award is given to a leader who enriches the lives of others, builds better organizations and ultimately helps create a more just and caring world. That is what our friend and colleague John Myslak did in our community, and we honor his memory by recognizing others who live their lives as fully as he did. 

2024 Winner

Powered By Our Sponsors


Presenting Sponsor


Awards Presenting Sponsor


EntreSocial After Party Sponsor


VIP Room Sponsor


Break Sponsor


Session Sponsors


Premium Sponsors


Community Sponsors


Supporters


Frequently Asked Questions

If your question is not answered below, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help you!

Can I register in person at the event?

Yes, registrations are accepted on-site; however, we encourage you to register early to receive valuable conference information and to take advantage of the discounted pricing! Click the “Register” icon in the top right-hand corner of this page to get your tickets.

What military, nonprofit or student discounts are available?

Discount pricing takes place throughout the year, with the best deal when you register before March 31st. In addition, we offer a student discount pass for $99! The average cost of a two-day conference is $1,000 – meaning EntreCon is already a very affordable option!

Are group discounts available?

Yes! We believe learning together as a team is important to overall organizational success, which is why we offer the following price breaks: 1-5 tickets are normal price; 6-9 tickets are $25 off per ticket, and 10 or more tickets are $49 off. Please email the SCI Team at entrecon@studeri.org for more details.

I only want to attend one day of the conference, is that possible?

We do offer 1-day passes, but they aren’t available until closer to the event date. We do this to ensure enough seats are available for all 2-day pass holders.

Will EntreCon close registration at any point?

Due to the popularity of the event, we recommend that you register early, as there is always the possibility that the event will sell out (strictly due to venue capacities).

What is included in my registration fee?

The registration fee allows access to all events and functions during the event and includes access to all breakout and keynote sessions, the EntreCon Awards Ceremony, all networking events, and a swag bag. VIP ticket holders get all of this plus unlimited access to a VIP lounge, early access to Lunch + Learn tickets, and free parking!

What if I have a disability and would like to request accommodation?

If you would like to inquire about accessibility/request accommodation, please contact us at entrecon@studeri.org at least one week in advance of the conference.

Does the registration fee include travel costs for the conference?

All travel costs including air and hotel accommodations are the responsibility of the attendee. EntreCon has secured a block of rooms at the conference rate at three downtown hotels. Rooms in the conference room block are reserved for conference attendees. Detailed hotel information including a link and instructions to book your reservation can be found on our Accommodations page.

What forms of payment do you accept for the conference fee?

Preferred registration payment is by credit card. If you have a large group, we are happy to send an invoice directly to you to pay for all passes at one time. If you need to pay by check, please email us at entrecon@studeri.org to request an exception. We’re happy to work with you!

If I can’t attend, can I transfer my registration?

Registrations may be transferred to another employee in your company and requests for transfers of registration fees must be made in writing. Please email us at entrecon@studeri.org to request a ticket transfer.

My credit card won’t process. What should I do?

Credit card processing problems are generally caused by a mismatch in the billing address of the credit cardholder. Please check that the address entered matches the billing address listed with your credit card provider or contact your credit card provider to authorize the charge.

How many people will be at the in-person conference?

We anticipate anywhere between 400-550 people.

Will everything take place in Pensacola or will you have a virtual event too?

The majority of EntreCon will be held in downtown Pensacola, Florida. However, we are creating a virtual experience option that will complement the live event online! All keynote and breakout sessions taking place in the Pensacola Little Theatre will be live-streamed throughout the two days. Breakout sessions in other locations will be recorded and shared as quickly as possible on the app/webpage.

Will speaker presentations be available after the event?

Speaker presentations will be available post-conference on the My Conference attendee portal. All registered attendees will receive an email with instructions for accessing the speaker presentations after the event. Please note we must have the speaker’s permission to share their presentation.

Will speaker presentation recordings be available to attendees?

All speaker PowerPoints and presentation video recordings will be available on the conference app to attendees. We will do our best to upload these as quickly as possible! Please note: We must have the speaker’s permission to post their presentation. Session recordings and materials will be available complimentary through December 31st. After this, they will be available to purchase On-Demand.

Are there volunteer opportunities available at EntreCon?

Yes! We’re always looking for assistance in setting up for the event, which takes place Monday and Tuesday prior to the conference, as well as during the actual event. We also accept large groups of volunteers (the more the merrier!). If you’re interested in volunteering for EntreCon, please email the EntreCon Team at entrecon@studeri.org.

Will I have the opportunity to connect with other registered attendees prior to the event?

The conference app will be available to all registered attendees prior to the event. Through the app, you will be able to network with other attendees before, during, and after the event. All registered attendees will receive email notifications and instructions for accessing the app when it is live.

Is there a conference app I can use?

Prior to the conference, we’ll send instructions to download and use the better-than-ever EntreCon app! The app is your essential conference tool. Earn points for posting pictures and interacting with others before and during the conference, set up your own schedule, and keep up to date with all the latest information. Remember to allow the app to provide notifications. *If you’ve attended in the past, please delete your old app and download the new one.

How can I see a list of who is attending?

All registered attendees can be found on the conference app. The app allows you to filter by interests, industries, and more! You can have private chat conversations or schedule a time to meet up in person or virtually!

Do I need to reserve my seat for the sessions I wish to attend?

Not necessarily. We encourage all attendees to review the full 2-day agenda to plan out which breakout sessions you’d like to attend. Breakouts occur at Pensacola Little Theatre, 5eleven Palafox, and The Voices. Please review the venue map if you’re unsure where these buildings are. Each session has limited seating, so please make your way to the venue in a timely manner.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code is business attire or business casual – be comfortable. We suggest that you bring a sweater or jacket to the sessions for your comfort, as meeting rooms and November in Pensacola can be a bit chilly!

What credentials will I need to attend EntreCon?

Your attendee badge is your “ticket” for all conference activities (sessions, exhibitions, meals, and receptions). Badges must be worn at all times and are not transferable at any time.

What do I do for lunch?

Both Wednesday and Thursday attendees have the option to attend one of our specialty Lunch + Learns. Lunch + Learns are included for VIP pass holders and are an additional investment for All-Access pass holders. Lunch + Learn registration link and session options coming soon!

What are the different networking opportunities available to attend?

Clark Partington is hosting an #EntreSocial at their beautiful office (located at 125 E Intendencia St.) on Wednesday evening immediately following the last keynote. It’s close by, meaning you can walk there!

If I’m sharing my experience on social media, is there a hashtag I should use or anyone specific I should tag?

We encourage you to share your experience on all social media platforms using the hashtag #EntreCon2025. Be sure to tag @StuderInstitute, @EntreConPensacola, and @QuintStuder on Facebook, or @studer_community_institute and @qdstuder on Instagram! While it may be tempting to check your emails and take calls during the sessions, we highly encourage you to be present and take full advantage of your time out of the office.

Where should I park?

Saving your parking plan for the morning of can be stressful, so we urge you to think about it beforehand! All of our partner hotels are within walking distance to the Pensacola Little Theatre. If you aren’t staying downtown, parking is available opposite New World Landing, the Jefferson St. Garage, and around downtown Pensacola.

Accommodations

WHERE TO STAY

If you’re coming to EntreCon from out of town, we’d like to welcome you to Pensacola! There’s so much to see and do here, and we hope that you’ll stick around before and after the conference to make the most of your trip.

Below are the hotels we’ve partnered with to make ensure a great conference experience:

Holiday Inn Express Downtown

101 E Main St.
Pensacola, FL 32502

850-433-2231 – Mention block code SCI

130 ft. from the conference, 1 min. walk

Rate: $239 per room + tax
The special rate is good now through October 11th, 2025.

Use the custom reservation link below to secure your room:
https://bit.ly/444uirq

Website

Hilton Garden Inn Pensacola Downtown

8 S. 9th Avenue
Pensacola, FL 32502

1.1 miles from the conference

Rate: $199 per room + tax
The special rate is good now through October 12th, 2025.

Use the custom reservation link below with Group Code: b998325 to secure your room:
https://bit.ly/3HpRkkR

Website

Lily Hall Boutique Hotel

415 N. Alcaniz Street
Pensacola, FL 32501

1.3 miles from the conference

Rate: $265 – $189 per room + tax
The special rate is good now through October 1st, 2025.

Use the custom reservation link below to secure your room:
https://bit.ly/3T2MFI3

Website

Things To Do

With a wide variety of dining options, quaint local shops, and historic buildings and landmarks, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time in downtown Pensacola! Read the full list of Things to Do at visitpensacola.com.

Contact the EntreCon Team

Our small (but mighty) team is dedicated to providing an exceptional conference experience to you. If you have any questions that aren’t answered on our FAQs page, please use the form below to contact our team directly.

Get in touch with us.

This is your development site: Please review on a desktop computer with a large monitor, not on mobile devices.

Dismiss