Frequently Asked Questions
What is WINC?
WINC (Women Inspired through Networking & Collaboration) is a deliberate community of high-caliber professional women who believe success is not a solo journey. We connect, grow, and collaborate to build meaningful relationships, foster professional and personal growth, and project an atmosphere of mutual success.
Who can join WINC?
WINC is open to professional women who are small business owners, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, or women in corporate or nonprofit positions. Our members are driven, growth-oriented, and committed to creating connections that support mutual success. Diversity and inclusion are central to our mission, and we welcome women from all industries and backgrounds.
What are the benefits of joining WINC?
Members benefit from:
A goal-setting and tracking program with quarterly accountability check-ins.
Monthly meetings, with a mix of open and members-only events.
Exclusive access to networking events, masterminds, and leadership opportunities.
Membership with The Beauty Boost Buffalo for community-building activities.
Professional development programs, including live webinars and an on-demand training library.
Human Design reports and DiSC assessments (included with Top-Tier membership).
A supportive network of professional women to foster personal and business growth.
What types of memberships are available?
WINC offers three membership levels:
Top-Tier Membership: Includes all WINC benefits such as masterminds, DiSC and Human Design reports, professional development courses, and more. ($900 annually or $79/month)
Core Membership: Includes all associate benefits plus access to monthly meetings, goal tracking, and a bio page on our website. ($600 annually or $54/month)
Associate Membership: Includes access to quarterly members-only meetings, networking events, TBB membership, and professional development library access. ($400 annually or $40/month)
How do I join WINC?
Prospective members must apply through our website, completing an application that ensures alignment with WINC’s mission and values. Applicants may also be asked to participate in a brief virtual interview to confirm a good fit for our community. Once accepted, members receive onboarding support and access to all WINC resources.
What are the membership expectations?
Members at the Top-Tier and Core levels are expected to:
Complete at least one one-on-one meeting with another member each month.
Submit monthly reports tracking their goals and participation.
Actively engage in WINC communication on Slack.
Volunteer at one WINC event for a minimum of one hour annually
Maintain an active status by meeting these requirements and attending at least 50% of meetings during their membership term*.
*meeting attendance is not a requirement, but highly encouraged.
How often does WINC meet?
WINC hosts monthly meetings, including open meetings and four quarterly members-only meetings. Additional optional events such as networking events, TBB community activities, philanthropic events and professional development opportunities are held throughout the year.
What is the goal-setting program at WINC?
Members set up to 5 personal and/or professional goals. Progress is tracked through monthly reporting and virtual checkins with feedback and accountability provided by WINC leadership. This program helps members stay focused, motivated, and aligned with their aspirations.
Can I attend a WINC meeting before joining?
Yes! Prospective members are welcome to attend open meetings as a guest to experience the WINC community before applying. Registration is required. Find our meetings on our Events page.
What opportunities for leadership are available?
WINC members have the opportunity to present during meetings, and take on roles that enhance our programs. Leadership is an integral part of our community, offering opportunities for members to share expertise and grow their impact.
Does WINC support charitable initiatives?
Yes, WINC hosts quarterly philanthropic opportunities, allowing members to give back to the community and align with our value of building meaningful relationships. WINC also hosts Prom 2.0 as a major fundraiser each year to support a local non-profit.
What is included in the professional development program?
WINC’s professional development program includes access to an evergreen library of professional learning topics such as leadership, communication, networking, and personal alignment. WINC also hosts live webinars lead by national and international thought leaders, tailored to address the evolving needs of women in business.
How can I sponsor a WINC event?
Sponsorship opportunities are available for networking events, meetings, and our philanthropic event. Sponsors benefit from visibility within a community of professional women, promotional opportunities, and direct engagement with attendees. Details are available on our Partner page.
How does WINC collaborate with The Beauty Boost Buffalo?
WINC has partnered with The Beauty Boost Buffalo (TBB) to enhance community-building activities. All WINC members receive a TBB membership, gaining access to events and experiences that align with WINC’s mission of fostering connection and growth.
What else makes WINC unique?
WINC is a dynamic community where professional women come together to connect, grow, and lead with purpose. What sets us apart is our whole-woman approach: from starting meetings with energizing dance sessions to raise our collective vibration, to hosting both open meetings and members-only meetings to create more opportunities for engagement. Members deepen their self-awareness through tools like Human Design and DiSC assessments, enhancing both personal and professional relationships. Through mastermind groups, goal tracking, and initiatives like Prom 2.0, WINC empowers women to thrive, lead, and make a difference—together.
Where can I find more information?
Check out our About page or follow us on social media for updates, event announcements, and insights into the WINC community.