MADISON, Wis. – Serial entrepreneur and investor Toni Sikes will answer the question, “Does stubborn have a bad reputation?” at the third annual Wisconsin W·O·M·E·N reception in Madison in November on the eve of the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium.

Sikes, the co-founder of Madison-based CODAworx, will also describe how her latest endeavor brings artists and industry professionals together to foster commissions and transform public spaces. Sikes is also a general partner with Calumet Venture Fund, a Midwest-based investment firm that specializes in the information technology sector.

Sikes has worked for more than 25 years developing companies and products that market the work of artists. CODAworx, acting as the hub of the commissioned art economy, is a resource that connects artists, those who commission artists, industry professionals and creative teams. The platform enables members in the industry to match creative talent with creative opportunities and provides digital tools that streamline the commission workflow process.

Over time, Sikes’ companies have raised more than $50 million in investment capital and helped many artists make a living with their artwork.

The reception will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Madison Club, 5 East Wilson St.  It precedes the Nov. 15-16 Early Stage Symposium at Madison’s Monona Terrace Convention Center.

Hosted by the Wisconsin Technology Council, the Wisconsin W·O·M·E·N reception highlights the role women are playing in the state’s entrepreneurial economy. The acronym stands for women, opportunity, mentors, entrepreneurs and networking. The event is open to men and women; visit here for more information and to register.

The cost is $25 for Early Stage Symposium registrants, $25 for Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Wisconsin participants and $50 for general admission. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and dessert will be served.  Event sponsors are Promega Corporation and Perkins Coie.

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