BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Women Business Collaborative - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Women Business Collaborative
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://wbcollaborative.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Women Business Collaborative
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20240310T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20241103T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:UTC
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20190101T000000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250915
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250920
DTSTAMP:20260504T173127Z
CREATED:20250519T095745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260504T173127Z
UID:51820-1757894400-1758326399@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:Action for Impact Summit 2025
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/action-for-impact-summit-2025/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/A4I-2025-Featured-Image-e1748356922865.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250521
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250523
DTSTAMP:20250804T111719Z
CREATED:20250111T181623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250804T111719Z
UID:45702-1747785600-1747958399@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:Women's Capital Summit 2025
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/womens-capital-summit-2025/
LOCATION:Wells Fargo Connections\, 150 East 42nd Street\, New York\, New York
CATEGORIES:Investment,Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/WCS-2025-Slider-Register.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240925
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240926
DTSTAMP:20250519T094454Z
CREATED:20240205T160824Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T094454Z
UID:26072-1727222400-1727308799@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:WBC Action for Impact Summit
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/wbc-action-for-impact-summit/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/WBC-Summit-Header-1920-x-800-px-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240904
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240906
DTSTAMP:20250304T005127Z
CREATED:20240731T155807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250304T005127Z
UID:36576-1725408000-1725580799@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:Women's Capital Summit 2024
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/womens-capital-summit/
LOCATION:Convene Madison\, 360 Madison Avenue\, New York\, NY\, 10017\, United States
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/WCS-Webpage-Banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230921T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230921T160000
DTSTAMP:20250602T001147Z
CREATED:20230420T165657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T001147Z
UID:22934-1695286800-1695312000@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:Action for Impact - WBC Annual Summit
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/action-for-impact-wbc-annual-summit-2/
LOCATION:New York
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/WBC_LoginBanner-1280x1080v3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230912T081500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230913T150000
DTSTAMP:20250602T003645Z
CREATED:20230420T165606Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T003645Z
UID:22901-1694506500-1694617200@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:Women Entrepreneurs - Capital and Finance Summit
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/women-entrepreneurs-capital-and-finance-summit/
LOCATION:New York
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Copy-of-Save-the-Date-Cap-Finance-900-×-900-px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220921T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220922T170000
DTSTAMP:20250602T002219Z
CREATED:20230420T165657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T002219Z
UID:22933-1663761600-1663866000@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:Action for Impact - WBC Annual Summit
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/action-for-impact-wbc-annual-summit/
LOCATION:New York
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/September-21-22-2022.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210921
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210923
DTSTAMP:20250602T011449Z
CREATED:20210311T153951Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T011449Z
UID:444-1632182400-1632355199@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:2021 Virtual Annual Summit
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/2021-virtual-annual-summit/
LOCATION:New York
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2021-WBC-Summit-Thank-you.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20201001
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20201003
DTSTAMP:20250602T012904Z
CREATED:20250602T012533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T012904Z
UID:52672-1601510400-1601683199@wbcollaborative.org
SUMMARY:2020 WBC Digital Summit: Weaving a Movement for Women in Business
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Speakers Include:				\n				\n				\n				\n							\nKelley Arena\nFounder\, Golden Hour Ventures\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nDeepika Bodapati\nCofounder/Chief Operating Officer\, Commure\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapinha\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nTania Carnegie\nHead of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\nAlexandra (Allie) Cavallaro\nDirector\, Loan Originations\, Wells Fargo Capital\n\nAlejandro Cremades\n Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners\n\nBailey DeVries\nFounder & CEO\, Geldo\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nTerri Eagle\nFounder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUP\n\nJessica Federer\nManaging Director\, The Women’s Health Fund\n\nBetsy Fore\nFounding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\n\nNancy Geenen\nCEO\, Flexability; COO\, The Kolar Group\n\nEda Henries\nFounder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\n\nAsma Ishaq\nCEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\n\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\nExecutive Chair and Founding Partner\, Walnut Ridge\n\nLouise Leduc Kennedy\nFounding Attorney\, West Hill Technology Counsel\n\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nLa Keisha Landrum-Pierre\nGeneral Partner and Co-Founder\, Emmeline Ventures\n\nLauren McConnell\nCo-founder and COO\, Systole Health\n\nWilliam Lawler\nSenior VIce President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nSimin Lee\nCEO and Co-Founder\, Systole Health\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nDoris Li Yeh\nFounder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath\, Inc\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\n\nJoley Michaelson\nFounder and CEO\, The Sun Company\n\nLiz O’Melia\nCFO & Principal\, ProCFO Partners\n\nKelly O’Connell\nManaging Partner\, 360 Venture Collective\n\nNicole Pereira\nManaging Director\, Lafayette Square\n\nKeara Sauber\nCEO\, Incora Health\n\nCoco Sellman\nFounder and CEO\, A Force for Good\n\nKristina Sicard\nFounder & Principal Consultant\, Dracis Inc\n\nLaura Taylor\nSenior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement\n\nVik Thapar\nManaging Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\, LLC\n\nTawanda Thomas\nFounder and Principal Advisor\, D8 Square Consulting\n\nBlessy Thomas\nPartner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\nLe’Jean Thompson\nSenior Regional Development Manager\, Founders First Capital Partners\n\nJoseph Vanella\nSenior Vice President\, East Region Sales Manager\, Wells Fargo Business\n\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nLaura Yecies\nCEO\, Osteoboost Health\, Inc\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative						\n			\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									The Women’s Capital Summit returns to New York City on October 6–7\, 2026—and it is designed to be the place where entrepreneurs and capital providers meet\, align\, and activate capital across every stage of the business lifecycle. This is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. Over two high-impact days\, the Summit will bring together a curated group of 150 investors and 150 high-growth women entrepreneurs—creating a powerful\, balanced ecosystem intentionally designed to drive real outcomes. From early-stage funding to growth equity\, debt\, and exit strategies\, the Summit connects founders to the right capital\, at the right time\, with the right partners. At its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. Entrepreneurs will engage directly with investors\, financial institutions\, and strategic advisors to refine their capital strategies\, explore diverse funding options\, and unlock new opportunities for scale. Capital providers will gain access to a strong pipeline of vetted\, high-potential companies while contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape. The Summit is built for those who are serious about deploying\, raising\, and scaling capital—including investors\, banks\, private equity and venture leaders\, corporate partners\, and founders. Together\, participants will not only exchange insights—but actively shape deals\, partnerships\, and pathways that extend well beyond the room. What sets this Summit apart is its intentional design for connection and action. Through curated introductions\, structured engagements\, and intimate conversations\, the experience fosters meaningful relationships that translate into real capital flow and long-term business growth. If you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Sponsored by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Agenda				\n				\n				\n				\n					        \n            \n                \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 6\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                                            \n                            \n                                                                                                                            \n                                                            October 7\, 2026                            \n                                                    \n                    \n                                  \n            \n            \n            \n		        \n                    \n				        12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants 12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) 1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission 2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy Round 1 (45 mins) – 2:30 PM – 3:15 PMFrom Angel Curious to Angel Confident: The New Era of Early-Stage InvestingAngel investing is evolving—with more women stepping in as both founders and funders. This session explores how early-stage investing works in 2026\, what angels are prioritizing (AI-enabled companies\, capital efficiency\, diverse leadership)\, and how founders can strategically position themselves. Participants will also learn how to build angel portfolios\, join syndicates\, and leverage networks to access high-quality deal flow. Stephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Lisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine AngelsBeyond Cash Flow: Smart Debt Strategies for Growth in 2026Traditional lending is no longer the only path. This session explores modern debt strategies—including asset-based lending\, SBA programs\, and equipment financing—alongside how data\, AI underwriting\, and alternative credit models are reshaping access to capital. Learn how to match the right debt product to your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Alexandra Cavallar\, Director at Wells Fargo Capital FinanceWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment FinanceJoseph Vanella\, Senior Vice President\, East Region Manager at Wells Fargo Business Moderator: Lori Ross-Avedikian\, Head of Women’s Segment – Commercial Banking\, Wells Fargo & CompanyProtecting What You’ve Built: Legal Strategies for Business OwnersThis session will help business owners understand the legal considerations that become more important as their companies mature. The discussion will cover practical strategies for protecting personal assets\, confidential business information\, employee relationships\, partnerships\, and long-term growth plans. Participants will learn why legal planning should be treated as an ongoing part of business strategy rather than a one-time task or reaction to problems. The session is designed to give owners\, founders\, and executives a clearer framework for reducing risk and building a stronger foundation for sustainable growth. Louise Leduc Kennedy\, Founding Attorney of West Hill Technology CounselModerator: Laura K. Taylor\, Senior Vice President\, WBENCM&A for Growth: Strategic Scaling M&A is no longer just an exit strategy—it’s a growth tool. This session explores how founders can use acquisitions to expand capabilities\, enter new markets\, and accelerate scale\, while preparing to be both a buyer and a target. Terri Eagle\, Founder & CEO\, TERRI EAGLE GROUPRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Rethinking Capital: Alternative Funding Strategies for Founders From revenue-based financing to venture debt and embedded finance\, founders have more options than ever. This session demystifies non-dilutive and hybrid capital solutions\, helping entrepreneurs understand when and how to use them. Walk away with a clear framework for aligning capital strategy with your growth model. Mary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)Vik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth CapitalLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital PartnersCapital Readiness in the AI Era: Building a Fundable Company Investors expect more than a great idea—they expect data\, systems\, and scalability. This session explores how founders can use AI\, financial infrastructure\, and storytelling to present a compelling\, investment-ready business. Learn how to build dashboards\, forecasts\, and narratives that drive valuation and investor confidence. Kathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouseLiz O’Melia\, CFO & Principal\, ProCFO PartnersFounder Wealth: Building Personal and Business Capital TogetherEntrepreneurs are increasingly thinking beyond business success to personal wealth strategy. This session explores how founders should approach liquidity\, equity\, and long-term wealth creation—while building their companies. Learn how top advisors guide entrepreneurs in integrating business growth with personal financial strategy. Laura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth ManagementTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)The Network Effect: How Relationships Drive Capital & Growth In 2026\, capital extends beyond funding—it’s relational. This session explores how peer networks\, CEO communities\, and membership ecosystems unlock access to relationships\,  partnerships\, and influence. Learn how to strategically build relationships that accelerate growth. Nancy J. Geenen\, MA Ed.\, J.D.\, Principal & Chief Executive Officer\, FlexibilityDoris Li Yeh \, Founder & Chief Executive Officer\, Mirapath Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Keynote – Beyond the Game: Investing in the Future of SportsToday’s conversation is about more than investing in teams. It’s about investing in an entire ecosystem—and understanding where the next generation of value will be created. This includes investment into talent\, infrastructure and platforms that are designed to unlock the potential and revenue for teams to athletes to the economy. Dr. Jan Adams\, Founder and CEO\, JMA Solutions Ali Curtis\, Executive Vice President\, Major League Soccer Lorine Pendleton\, Founder & Managing Partner\, 125 VenturesModerator: Julie Donaldson\, news anchor/reporter\, WTTG FOX5 DC5:30 PM: The Capital Connection 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes                     \n		        \n                    \n				        8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks Gwen K Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative9:05 AM: From Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity – A Fireside Chat with Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\, led by WBC CEO Gwen Young Merrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallzFireside chat with Gwen Young\, CEO\, WBCWhat does it take to build a billion-dollar brand without private equity backing\, inherited networks\, or traditional gatekeepers? In this inspiring keynote\, Merrilee Kick\, founder of BuzzBallz\, shares the unfiltered story of how she transformed an idea into one of the most successful women-founded beverage companies in the country. From navigating capital barriers to scaling manufacturing\, branding\, distribution\, and growth on her own terms\, Merrilee’s journey challenges conventional startup narratives and offers a powerful roadmap for women entrepreneurs building bold businesses. This conversation will explore resilience\, ownership\, strategic growth\, and what it means to build lasting enterprise value while maintaining control of your vision. For founders\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders alike\, this keynote is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit\, innovation\, and redefining how women build wealth and power. 9:40 AM:  Capital Strategy 2026: Navigating a Complex Funding LandscapeToday’s funding landscape spans equity\, debt\, CDFIs\, family offices\, and strategic capital. This session provides a clear framework for selecting the right capital partners based on your business model\, growth stage\, and long-term vision. 2 Micro-Panels – One Debt\, One Equity Debt Panel Jessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)Nicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square CapitalKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEWTawanda Thomas\, Founder & Capital Strategy Advisor\, D8 Square ConsultingEquity Panel Kelley Arena\, Founder\, Golden Hour VenturesLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLCTracey Warren\, Senior Managing Director\, Go Red for Women\, American Heart Association10:45 AM: Coffee Break 11:00 AM: The New Capital Playbook: Platforms\, AI & the Future of FundraisingFundraising is being transformed by technology. This session explores emerging tools and models—including AI-driven investor matching\, crowdfunding\, rolling funds\, tokenization\, and blockchain-enabled capital. Learn how founders are raising smarter\, faster\, and more efficiently in 2026. Fernanda Carapinha\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global StudiosAlejandro Cremades\, Founder & Managing Partner\, AC8 Partners11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50  PM: Ask the Experts: Live Capital Strategy ClinicAn interactive session connecting founders directly with capital providers. Get real-time feedback on funding strategy\, business model\, and growth plans from investors\, lenders\, and advisors—designed for practical\, actionable insights. Bailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of GeldoBetsy Fore\, Founding Partner\, Velveteen Ventures Lauren McConnell\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKelly O’Connell\, Managing Partner at 360 Venture Collective\,Moderator: Judith Goldkrand\, Co Chair Nom-Gov Committee\, Women Business Collaborative; Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.1:35  PM: Founder-Funder Alignment: Building High-Impact PartnershipsThis curated conversation brings founders and funders together to explore what drives investment decisions today. Learn how alignment on vision\, growth strategy\, and outcomes shapes successful partnerships. Myra Marcellin\, Investment Director\, Black Farmer FundKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: Exit by DesignExits are no longer one-size-fits-all. From acquisitions to secondary sales and long-term ownership models\, founders have more options than ever. Learn how to plan early\, align stakeholders\, and maximize value while maintaining flexibility. Asma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee CorporationMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.Coco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good BusinessModerator: Eda Henries\, Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.3:15 PM:  From Influence to Ownership: How Women Build Wealth\, Back Founders\, and Change the Capital System Syama Bunten\, Principal\, Big Delta CapitalChristie Lenox\, Creator and Writer\, Athletes on the Cap TableCoco Sellman\, Founder & CEO\, A Force for GoodModerator: Tuti Scott\, President and Founder\, Changemaker Strategies3:25 PM Investing in Women’s Health: Funding the Future of Innovation and ImpactWomen’s health is one of the most underfunded yet high-growth sectors in innovation and entrepreneurship. This dynamic conversation brings together leaders from Systol\, Incora Health\, and WH Fund to explore how investors\, founders\, and ecosystem builders are accelerating solutions that improve outcomes for women while unlocking significant market opportunity. Panelists will discuss the evolving women’s health investment landscape\, barriers to scaling women-led health ventures\, and what it will take to build a stronger pipeline of capital\, innovation\, and leadership in the women’s health economy. Simin Lee\, Co-Founder\, SystoleKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora HealthLaura Yecies\, Chief Executive Officer\, OsteoboostModerator: Jessica Federer\, Managing Director\, The Women’s Health Fund4:00 PM Making the Myth a Reality: From Founder to UnicornA candid conversation with a founder who has scaled to a significant valuation. Learn what it takes to move from early traction to high-growth scale\, including capital strategy\, leadership decisions\, and navigating key inflection points. Deepika Bodapati\, Founder\, AthelasJoley Michaelson\, CEO\, The Sun CompanyModerator: Lakeisha Landrum Pierre\, Emmeline Ventures4:20 PM: Closing Remarks                     \n		                    \n        \n				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n							\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Event FAQs				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					            \n            \n					When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held?The Summit will take place in New York on October 6-7\, 2026 at Wells Fargo Connections – 150 East 42nd Street\, Concourse Level\, New York\, NY 10017. \n					\n					What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n					\n					Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit?For Entrepreneurs: WBC welcomes women entrepreneurs in all industries who are prepared to scale their businesses and learn about capital investment opportunities. WBC will screen applicants based on criteria outlined in the registration form to assess if a business’ participation is a good fit for the Summit. For Investors: WBC welcomes all investors to join WCS. Particularly firms that are interested in investing at all stages of a business growth (early stage to exit). \n					\n					What are the benefits of attending the Summit?The Summit offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders\, gain actionable connections and insights\, and explore funding paths essential for business growth. You’ll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors\, enabling you to grow capital for your business. \n					\n					What is the agenda for the event?You can review our tentative agenda on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit webpage. A detailed final agenda will be available closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates. \n					\n					Will there be opportunities to network with investors?Yes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. The Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n					\n					Are there breakout sessions?Yes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n					\n					Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur?The Summit is focused on empowering and connecting women entrepreneurs with investors. We welcome investors and attendees who share our mission of advancing women-led businesses and fostering diverse business ecosystems. \n					\n					Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS?Please indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n					\n					How do I get updates on the event?To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit\, please subscribe to WBC’s newsletter or follow us on social media. We will share event details\, speaker announcements\, and registration information there. \n									\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n									Powered by: 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n					Steering Committee				\n				\n				\n				\n									Judith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov CommitteeGwen Young CEO\, WBCDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette SquareEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.Amy Rice  Founder\, Alumni EmporiumLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/2020-wbc-digital-summit-weaving-a-movement-for-women-in-business/
LOCATION:New York
CATEGORIES:Summit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wbcollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/imageupload1617206163698_WBC-Summit-Image-1-2.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR