2026 CONNECT SUMMIT Inspiring Leadership - Nurturing Community

BIG thanks to our Summit sponsors!

Thanks to the generous support of the following sponsors, this summit is free to attend.
Our sponsors recognize that strong early childhood systems happen through partnerships and relationships.
Strong and supported early childhood systems lead to better outcomes for children, families and communities.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

Click the logos below to learn more about these organizations.

The 2026 CONNECT Summit is brought to you by:

Special thank you to our swag bag donors!

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Karen Lum

Business trainer, facilitator and coach Karen Lum, owner of K. Lum Consulting, has more than 27 years of facilitation experience whose clients include non-profit organizations, small and large businesses, as well as luxury service and high-end brands.  

Karen has firsthand experience as an entrepreneur, c-suite leader, and team builder and has dedicated herself to ongoing training as a coach and consultant. 

Keynote: The Ripple Effect: How Everyday Leadership Builds Stronger Children, Families, Workplaces, and Communities

Child care is far more than a service—it is one of the most important foundations of a thriving community.

Every day, thousands of Montanans make decisions that shape whether children are safe, families can work, businesses can thrive, and communities continue to grow. Whether you care for children, employ parents, support providers, influence policy, or simply care about your community, you are part of that story.

This interactive opening keynote invites participants to explore the extraordinary ripple effect of quality child care while challenging the traditional definition of leadership. Through reflection, conversation, and shared experiences, attendees will discover how influence exists at every level—and why every interaction, every conversation, and every decision has the power to strengthen the future of Montana’s children, families, workforce, and communities.

You will leave inspired, connected to others across the childcare ecosystem, and equipped to see themselves as leaders regardless of their title or role.

Sponsor and Exhibitor Opportunities

This project is funded in whole or in part under a contract with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. The statements herein do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the department.