Women Business Collaborative

The State of the Workforce in 2026: Leadership, Talent, and Opportunity
2026-03-25 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Register: Investors

Apply: Entrepreneurs

Re-live WCS 2025

Speakers Include:

Mary Donohue
Executive Director, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)

Stephanie Fowler
President of Capital Access, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)

Lisa Friedlander
Chief Revenue Officer, Citrine Angels

Asma Ishaq
CEO, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation

Merrilee Kick
Founder & CEO, BuzzBall

Loretta McCarthy
Co-CEO and Managing Partner, Golden Seeds LLC

Coco Sellman
Founder and CEO, A Force for Good

Liz Whitehead
Chief Executive Officer, 12PointFive

Gwen K. Young
Chief Executive Officer, Women Business Collaborative

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.

Sponsored by:

Agenda

October 6, 2026

October 7, 2026

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) Elizabeth McClusky, Managing Director, Discovery Fund, TruStage VenturesMelissa Withers, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, RevUp Capital1:30 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. Lisa Friedlander, Chief Revenue Officer, Citrine AngelsStephanie Fowler, President of Capital Access, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)Beyond 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 align the right debt product with your growth stage while preserving equity and flexibility. Structuring for Scale: Ownership, Control & Long-Term ValueHow you structure your company determines your ability to raise, scale, and exit. This session covers ownership strategy, governance, and legal frameworks through a 2026 lens—including QSBS, cap table strategy, and investor alignment. Learn how to protect value while positioning your company for growth, acquisition, or long-term profitability. Accelerators, Platforms & Ecosystems: Where Growth Happens NowAccelerators are no longer just programs—they are gateways into capital, customers, and ecosystems. This session explores how accelerators are evolving to integrate capital access, corporate partnerships, and AI-driven growth tools. Learn how to choose and leverage the right ecosystem to accelerate traction and scale. Round 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)Capital 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. Founder 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. Tania Carnegie, President & EVP, 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. Kristina Sicard, Founder & Principal Consultant, Dracis Inc.4:15 PM: Break 4:30 PM: Opening Panel 5:30 PM: Opening Reception and Women’s Marketplace 7:00 PM: Reception Concludes

8:00 AM: Arrival, Breakfast and Networking 9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks 9:05 AM: Keynote Fireside ChatCandid conversation with a successful entrepreneur who built and scaled a business-topic to be determined 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. Loretta McCarthy, Co-CEO and Managing Partner, Golden Seeds LLCBlessy Thomas, Partner, Innovate Capital Growth Fund10:45 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. 11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. 12:50 PM: Live Capital Strategy Clinic: An 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. 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. 2:20 PM Break 2:35 PM: M&A for Growth: Strategic ScalingM&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. 3:05 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. Coco Sellman, Founder and CEO, A Force for GoodAsma Ishaq, CEO, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation3:35 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. 4:20 PM: Closing Remarks

Event FAQs

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.

What is the registration fee for the summit?Registration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Are there breakout sessions?Yes, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.

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.

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.

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.

Steering Committee

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

Service to Strategy: Veteran Leadership and the Value of Diverse Boardrooms
2026-03-31 16:00 - 16:45 | Virtual

Women's Capital Summit 2026
2026-10-06 12:30 - 2026-10-07 17:00 | Wells Fargo Connections, 150 East 42nd Street, New York, New York
