From Idea to Impact: Building a Business the Community Says "YES" To

Ready to move from idea to real impact?

Join us for a focused Mini Masterclass + Panel Discussion designed for women entrepreneurs who want clarity, confidence, and connection.

This is more than a panel. A mini masterclass includes:
• A practical framework you can apply immediately
• Insider insight from local leaders
• Guided reflection to identify your next step

During this experience, you will:

• Learn what “business readiness” truly means from decision-makers’ perspectives
• Gain insider clarity on funding, community investment, and growth pathways
• Participate in guided reflection to identify your next right step
• Understand how innovation, capital, mentorship, and city support connect

A true masterclass experience provides:
✔ A shared framework you can apply immediately
✔ Insider insights you won’t find online
✔ Structured reflection — not just passive listening
✔ Clear, actionable direction

Details:

March 25 | 3:30 – 5:00 PM
Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
IUSB – Northside Hall
1825 Northside Blvd., South Bend

Meet the Panel

Leaders representing key pillars of the local business ecosystem:

• Mondupe Adeoye, Director, Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at IUSB
• Heather Leer, Vice President, Northwest Bank
• Mary McAfee, Director, Department of Community Investment, City of South Bend
• Cindy Cohen, RN BS BA, Founder, C2 Your Health Women’s Initiative Inc.

Moderated by Stacey Oberly Black, Executive Director, Michiana Women Rise

You’ll leave with greater confidence and a stronger sense of where your business fits within the South Bend entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Hear directly from leaders in innovation, banking, community investment, and mentorship as they share what business readiness really looks like—and how women entrepreneurs can access support in South Bend.

If you’re building something meaningful and want the community to say YES, this conversation is for you.

Reserve your seat today.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses that believe in strengthening women-owned enterprises and building a thriving local economy. Your participation, sponsorship, or donation helps expand access to mentoring, scholarships, and business education for women in our region.

For questions, contact Cindy Cohen, by text 574-213-2482

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Northside Hall, 1825 Northside Blvd., South Bend, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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