PRESS RELEASE: South Bend Launches First Ever Mini Masterclass for Women Entrepreneurs Led by Women Leaders

 

A women‑led masterclass designed to equip South Bend’s women entrepreneurs with practical tools, insider insight, and a clear path from idea to impact.

South Bend, IN March 17, 2026 - A first-of-its-kind event for the region, the Mini Masterclass and Panel Discussion for Women Entrepreneurs, The topic: Idea to Impact: Building a Business the Community Says "YES" To will debut on March 25, 2026, bringing together influential women leaders from banking, innovation, community investment, and entrepreneurship to empower women building businesses across Michiana.

Event Registration: https://entrepreneurmasterclass2026.eventbrite.com

Hosted at the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Indiana University South Bend, this 90‑minute masterclass and panel discussion is designed to give women founders the clarity, confidence, and insider insight needed to move their ideas into action.

A New Model for Entrepreneurial Learning

Unlike traditional panels, this Mini Masterclass blends:

• A practical, proven framework women can apply immediately
• Insider perspectives from decision‑makers who influence funding, readiness, and community support
• Guided reflection to help participants identify their next right step
• Actionable direction for launching or growing a business in South Bend

This is the first event in a new series created by women leaders, for women entrepreneurs—a milestone for the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Featured Women Leaders as Panelists

The masterclass brings together leaders representing the pillars of business success:

• Modupe Adeoye — Director, Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, 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.

Moderator: Stacey Oberly Black — Executive Director, Michiana Women Rise

Together, these leaders will share what “business readiness” really means, how funding decisions are made, and how women can access support, mentorship, and resources in the South Bend entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Event Details

• Date: March 25, 2026
• Time: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship
• IUSB – Northside Hall
• 1825 Northside Blvd., South Bend, IN 46615
• Format: In‑person mini masterclass + panel
• Registration on Eventbrite: https://entrepreneurmasterclass2026.eventbrite.com
• This event is free, with refreshments & beverages provided to participants

Why This Event Matters Women entrepreneurs in Michiana face unique challenges—access to capital, mentorship, and visibility among them.  This masterclass is designed to close those gaps by offering: Direct access to women leaders who influence local business development A shared framework for turning ideas into viable ventures A supportive environment for connection and collaboration A clear understanding of how to navigate South Bend’s business ecosystem Participants will leave with a personalized action plan and a deeper sense of where their business fits within the region’s growing innovation landscape. Sponsorship Opportunities Local businesses and organizations committed to strengthening women-owned enterprises are invited to support this initiative. Sponsorships help expand access to scholarships, mentoring, and business education for women across the region. For sponsorship inquiries, contact: Cindy Cohen Text: 574‑213‑2482 ### For media inquiries and additional information, please contact: Cindy Cohen RN, BS BA C2 Your Health Women's Initiative Inc. 574‑213‑2482 cindycohenRN@yahoo.com C2YHWI.org

About the Organizer C2 Your Health Women’s Initiative Inc. (501c3) is dedicated to empowering women through entrepreneurship, education, mentoring, and community support. With more than 200 events hosted over five years, the organization continues to champion women’s economic advancement across Michiana. Follow us: FB C2 Your Health Women's Initiative INSTA @cindycohenrn LN /in/cindycohenrn Website: C2YHWI.org This event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B6RXNgmjw/