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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Women Business Collaborative
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260701T120000
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SUMMARY:From the Field to the C-Suite: Why Women Athletes Are the Next Great Leadership Pipeline
DESCRIPTION:Click here to register \nJoin Women Business Collaborative for a discussion on the results and lessons learned from the inaugural Athlete Business Academy (ABA) pilot. This webinar will showcase how the skills developed through elite sports—resilience\, teamwork\, strategic thinking\, accountability\, and high-performance leadership—translate directly into business success. \nHear from athletes\, corporate leaders\, and WBC partners as they discuss why women athletes represent an untapped talent pipeline for companies seeking innovative\, adaptable\, and results-driven leaders. The conversation will also highlight the impact of the ABA pilot and opportunities for employers\, investors\, and partners to engage in building the next generation of business leadership. \nWomen athletes don’t just compete—they lead. It’s time for business to recognize and invest in this exceptional talent pipeline. \nSpeakers Confirmed: \n\nDr. Unatti Jain\, Generational Diversity Researcher\, Consultant & Speaker\, Bridging Generations\, Unnatti Jain Inc.\, WBC Champion\nAbby Ramirez\,  ABA pilot participant and former professional softball player; Assistant Softball Coach at DePaul University\nCheryl Rosario\, The Head of Diversity\, Equity\, & Inclusion (DEI) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at Munich Re America\nTamika Tremaglio\, Managing Director\, Secretariat\, WBC Board Director\nModerator: Gwen K. Young\, CEO\, WBC
URL:https://www.wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/from-the-field-to-the-c-suite-why-women-athletes-are-the-next-great-leadership-pipeline/
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261006T123000
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SUMMARY:Women's Capital Summit 2026
DESCRIPTION:Register: Investors\n					\n					\n									Apply: Entrepreneurs\n					\n					\n									Re-live WCS 2025\n					\nSpeakers Include:\n\nErika Baez-Grimes\nCertified M&A Professional & Founder of THE BPH Group\n\nLaura Bokser\nPrivate Wealth Manager\, AVP; The Puleio Bokser Group\n\nFernanda Carapina\nFounder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\nMary Donohue\nExecutive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\n\nKathy Durfee\nCEO & Founder\, TechHouse\n\nStephanie Fowler\nPresident of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\nLisa Friedlander\nChief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\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\nMerrilee Kick\nFounder & CEO\, BuzzBall\n\nJessie Lee\nManaging Director\, Renaissance Economic Development Corporation\n\nLoretta McCarthy\nCo-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\nElizabeth McCluskey\nManaging Director\, Discovery Fund; TruStage Ventures\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\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\nLiz Whitehead\nChief Executive Officer\, 12PointFive\n\nDr. Shakenna Williams\nExecutive Director\, Frank & Eileen™ Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership (F&E CWEL)\n\nKelly Ann Winget\nFounder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\nMelissa Withers\nManaging Partner\, RevUp\n\nGwen K. Young\nChief Executive Officer\, Women Business Collaborative			\n			\nThe 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. \nThis is not just another convening. It is where capital moves. \nOver 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. \nAt its core\, the Women’s Capital Summit is about building capital pathways—not just conversations. \nEntrepreneurs 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. \nThe 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. \nWhat 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. \nIf you are building\, investing\, or shaping the future of capital—this is where you need to be. \nSponsored by: \n															\n																														 \nAgenda\n\n\n                                                            October 6\, 2026\n                                                    \n\n                                                            October 7\, 2026\n                                                    \n\n12:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, Capital Matchmaking Participants \n\n12:45 – 2:00 PM: Capital Matchmaking (exclusively for participating entrepreneurs and investors; By application only) \n\nElizabeth McCluskey\, Managing Director\, Discovery Fund\, TruStage Ventures\nMelissa Withers\, Co-Founder & Managing Partner\, RevUp Capital\nJessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)\n\n\n1:30 PM: Arrival and Registration\, General Admission \n\n2:15 PM: Welcome Remarks \n\nGwen K. Young\, CEO\, Women Business Collaborative\n\n\n2:30 PM: Breakout Sessions: Upgrading Your Capital Strategy \n\nRound 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. \n\n\n\nLisa Friedlander\, Chief Revenue Officer\, Citrine Angels\nStephanie Fowler\, President of Capital Access\, Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL)\n\n\n\nBeyond 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. \nStructuring 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. \nAccelerators\, 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. \n\nDr. Shakenna Williams\, Executive Director\, Frank & Eileen™ Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership at Babson College\n\n\nRound 2 (45 mins) – 3:30 PM – 4:15 PM \nRethinking 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. \n\nMary Donohue\, Executive Director\, Revenue Based Finance Coalition (RBFC)\nVik Thapar\, Managing Director\, Cypress Growth Capital\nLe’Jean Thompson\, Senior Regional Development Manager\, Founder First Capital Partners\n\n\nCapital 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. \n\nKathy Durfee\, Founder & CEO\, TechHouse\n\n\nFounder 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. \n\nLaura Bokser\, Private Wealth Manager\, AVP\, The Puleio Bokser Group\, Merrill Private Wealth Management\nTania Carnegie\, Head of UHNW Banking\, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n4:15 PM: Break \n\n4:30 PM: Opening KeynoteFrom Kitchen Table to Unicorn: Building BuzzBallz Without Private Equity \n\nMerrilee Kick\, Founder & CEO\, BuzzBallz\n\n\n5:30 PM: Opening Reception and Women’s Marketplace \n\n7:00 PM: Reception Concludes \n8:00 AM: Arrival\, Breakfast and Networking \n\n9:00 AM: Building an Ecosystem: Connections and Capital – Welcome Remarks \n\n9:05 AM: Keynote Fireside ChatCandid conversation with a successful entrepreneur who built and scaled a business-topic to be determined  \n\n9:40 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. \nDebt Panel \n\nJessie Lee\, Renaissance Small Business Services (affiliated with AAFE Community Development Fund)\nKristina Sicard\, Financial Capital Strategy Advisor\, WEW\nNicole Pereira\, Managing Director\, Lafayette Square Capital\nWilliam Lawler\, Senior Vice President\, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance\n\nEquity Panel \n\nLoretta McCarthy\, Co-CEO and Managing Partner\, Golden Seeds LLC\n\n VC Panel \n\nBlessy Thomas\, Partner\, Innovate Capital Growth Fund\n\n\n10:45 AM: Coffee Break \n\n11:00 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. \n\nFernanda Carapina\, Founder & CEO\, WE Global Studios\n\n\n11:50 PM: Networking LunchFacilitated networking with thematic conversations around the Summit’s key topics. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and forge meaningful relationships. \n\n12:50  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. \n\nBailey DeVries\, Founder & CEO of Geldo\nModerator: Judith \n\n\n1:35  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. \n\nKelly Ann Winget\, Founder & Managing Partner\, Alternative Wealth Partners\n\n\n2:20 PM Break \n\n2:35 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. \n\nTawanda Thomas\, VP Commercial Lending\, The Harbor Bank\nErika Baez-Grimes\, Managing Partner\, The BPH Group\n\n\n3:05 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. \n\nCoco Sellman\, Founder and CEO\, A Force for Good Business\nAsma Ishaq\, CEO\, Liquid Collagen Acquisition Corp\, a subsidiary of Shaklee Corporation\nMarcella Kanfer Rolnick\, Executive Chair\, ​​GOJO Industries\, Inc.\nModerator: Eda Henries\, Henries & Co.\n\n\n3:35 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. \n\nKeara Sauber\, CEO\, Incora Health\nModerator: Jessica Federer\n\n\n4:20 PM: Closing Remarks \nEvent FAQs\n                When and where will the 2026 Women’s Capital Summit be held? \nThe 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                What is the registration fee for the summit? \nRegistration for the 2026 summit is $749 USD per participant. \n                Who should apply/register for the Women’s Capital Summit? \nFor 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. \nFor 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                What are the benefits of attending the Summit? \nThe 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                What is the agenda for the event? \nYou 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                Will there be opportunities to network with investors? \nYes! The Summit offers various networking opportunities including Capital Matchmaking sessions and informal gatherings like the opening reception and marketplace. \nThe Summit will include a variety of investors from debt to equity\, venture\, angel and more. \n                Are there breakout sessions? \nYes\, we have designed several breakout sessions for participants. Please see the agenda on this page.  \n                Can I attend if I am not a woman entrepreneur? \nThe 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                Who do I contact to exhibit my business at the women’s marketplace at the 2026 WCS? \nPlease indicate your interest via the registration form. For additional inquiries or questions\, please contact Carolyn Howell\, Carolyn@eventsusa.com. \n                How do I get updates on the event? \nTo 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. \nPowered by: \n															\n																														 \nSteering Committee\n\nJudith Goldkrand Vistage Coach\, Vistage Worldwide\, Inc.; WBC Board of Directors Co Chair\, Nom-Gov Committee\nGwen Young CEO\, WBC\nDamien Dwin Founder and CEO\, Lafayette Square\nEda Henries Founder and Managing Principal\, Henries & Co.\nAmy Rice  Founder\, Alumni Emporium\nLaura Taylor Senior Vice President\, Strategic Financial Services & WBE Engagement
URL:https://www.wbcollaborative.org/wbc-events/womens-capital-summit-2026/
LOCATION:Wells Fargo Connections\, 150 East 42nd Street\, New York\, New York
CATEGORIES:Summit
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