FundingHER Future Creates Connections That Lead to Capital

By OhioMBE / June 8, 2026

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Access to capital remains one of the greatest challenges facing women-owned businesses. On June 4, entrepreneurs from across Ohio gathered to address that challenge during the FundingHER Future Brunch Experience, hosted by the Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (OWCC).

Made possible through the support of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, the event brought together women business owners, financial institutions, resource providers, and community leaders for a morning focused on financing, business growth, and relationship-building.

More than 50 entrepreneurs and supporters participated in the event, which was designed to provide practical information about funding opportunities while creating direct connections between business owners and financial decision-makers.

According to event surveys, attendees reported high levels of satisfaction with the program, speakers, venue, and overall experience. Participants represented communities across Ohio, with the majority traveling from Franklin County and others attending from communities throughout the state.

“The reality is that many women entrepreneurs have great ideas, strong businesses, and the determination to succeed, but they often struggle to access the capital and relationships needed to take the next step,” said Ronda Watson Barber, founder of the Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce. “FundingHER Future was created to bring women business owners into the same room with the people and organizations that can help them grow.”

The program featured a financial panel moderated by Shaundretta Boykins of the Ohio Department of Development. Panelists included Jerome Jones of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Michael Towns of Adelphi Bank, and Jeffery Washington of Wright-Patt Credit Union. Together, they shared insights on lending, business financing, capital readiness, and the steps entrepreneurs can take to improve their ability to secure funding.

While the panel discussion provided valuable information, many participants said the most impactful part of the event came afterward.

Unlike traditional conferences where attendees hear presentations and leave, FundingHER Future created opportunities for direct engagement. Entrepreneurs were able to spend one-on-one time with bankers and financial professionals, ask questions about their specific business situations, discuss financing needs, and begin building relationships that could lead to future funding opportunities.

“One of the most powerful moments was watching women business owners sit down face-to-face with bankers and have real conversations about their businesses,” Barber said. “Access to capital starts with access to relationships. Those one-on-one discussions gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to ask questions, gain clarity, and begin building connections that can make a difference long after the event ends.”

The event also reflected the diversity of Ohio’s entrepreneurial community. Approximately 73 percent of attendees identified as African American, creating an environment that brought together diverse perspectives, experiences, and business interests. Women entrepreneurs from a variety of industries participated, ranging from startup ventures and side businesses to established companies seeking additional growth opportunities.

FundingHER Future is part of the Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce’s ongoing commitment to helping women entrepreneurs access the resources, education, and networks necessary to build successful businesses. Through educational programs, networking opportunities, advocacy, and business development initiatives, OWCC continues to support women-owned businesses throughout Ohio.

As the event concluded, attendees left with more than information. They left with new contacts, new opportunities, and a better understanding of the financial resources available to help them achieve their business goals.

“The conversations that happened in the room are exactly why this event matters,” Barber said. “When women entrepreneurs gain access to information, resources, and the right relationships, they are better positioned to create jobs, grow their businesses, and strengthen our communities. That’s what FundingHER Future is all about.”