Alliance of Channel Women Launches ACWConnect
In a significant stride towards empowering women in the technology sector, the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW) has recently unveiled
ACWConnect, an innovative member portal aimed at fostering year-round engagement among its members. This new web-based platform was introduced during the ACWConnect Live! event conducted at the Channel Partners Conference & Expo in Las Vegas on April 13, 2026, providing attendees an exclusive first look at how it will enable members to connect and collaborate more effectively.
ACW, an organization dedicated to accelerating the career growth of female leaders within the technology channel, emphasizes the importance of community in professional development.
Mel Kolinski, ACW President, described ACWConnect as a milestone for the organization, highlighting the months of planning and collaboration that culminated in the launch. This initiative has been a collaborative endeavor involving key leaders from ACW, including
Sue McHugh and
Erin Knese, the Chairs of Technology and Membership Committees. Their efforts, alongside the strategic partnership with BuzzTheory, have been instrumental in bringing forth a platform that enhances member experiences.
Main Features of ACWConnect
The portal offers a diverse array of features designed to meet the varying needs and interests of its members, aimed at making interactions smoother and more meaningful. Here are some of the standout features:
1. Interest-Based Groups
Members can choose to join groups aligned with their interests and professional goals, including those associated with Local Chapters, Virtual Chapters, and mentoring programs. This variety allows for personalized engagement tailored to what matters most to each individual member.
2. Forum Discussions
The platform includes dedicated forums for members to engage in discussions about critical topics such as career advancement, leadership strategies, industry trends, and ACW initiatives. This feature fosters an environment where insightful conversations can thrive.
3. Enhanced Networking
With a comprehensive People Directory, members can easily identify and connect with peers based on location or role. This tool aims to help individuals expand their networks and initiate one-on-one communications through direct messaging.
4. Support and Resources
ACWConnect also simplifies the process of seeking advice and retrieving essential information. Members can ask questions and receive assistance through direct messages or participate in forum conversations to gain insights from fellow members.
5. Events Hub
The Events hub keeps members informed about upcoming webinars, local chapter meetings, and other industry gatherings. This centralized location makes it easier for users to stay current and engaged with their community.
6. Access to Valuable Content
The portal also houses a Media Center that provides members with access to ACW news, thought leadership articles, and other vital resources, ensuring they remain well-informed about industry developments.
A Personalized Experience
ACWConnect is designed to offer a tailored digital experience, allowing members to manage profiles, customize notifications, and interact with content that resonates with them personally.
Erin Knese, ACW Membership Chair, noted that the portal is designed to extend the value of ACW membership beyond physical events, creating more opportunities for members to engage, support each other, and access vital resources.
Sue McHugh, ACW Technology Chair, emphasized that the intention behind ACWConnect is to enhance the connection among members, going beyond just a repository of information. Members will receive automatic enrollment into the ACWConnect portal, with further details communicated via email on how to log in and start engaging with their community.
To explore the
ACWConnect Member Portal, potential members can find more information about joining the Alliance at
www.allianceofchannelwomen.org.
About the Alliance of Channel Women
Founded in 2010, the Alliance of Channel Women is committed to supporting women within the indirect channel of the technology industry. Through a focus on education, community building, and advocacy, ACW provides women and their allies with opportunities to advance in their careers and leadership roles. For more information about ACW, visit
allianceofchannelwomen.org.