EAST LANSING, MI (April 16, 2025) |
Today, MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) partnered with She’s Next, Empowered by Visa to host a free, half-day event designed to inspire and empower women entrepreneurs.
The exclusive event at MSUFCU Headquarters brought together Greater Lansing women business owners to learn from industry experts, network with like-minded peers, and discover actionable strategies to elevate their businesses. The focus was on providing valuable insights, practical advice, and connecting attendees with resources that will help them grow their businesses.
“Small businesses are the heart and soul of our communities,” said Sara Dolan, Chief Financial Officer at MSUFCU. “We’re committed to providing financial tools and services that not only help them manage their businesses but help them grow.”
The event’s theme, Trailblazing: The Power of Building Your Network, emphasized the importance of community and collaboration in entrepreneurship. Attendees heard examples of entrepreneurial success and resilience, as well as received access to business solutions, funding opportunities, and financial strategies to elevate their business growth.
A keynote was presented by Bon Bon Bon founder Alexandra Clark, followed by a panel discussion with Clark; Amanda Adamcheck, owner of Kiloh + Co.; Rihab Musa, founder and CEO of Nubian; and Alena Olsen, an Olympic bronze medal winner for Team USA in Rugby Sevens.
“I liked the emphasis [in the keynote and panel] on being courageous, especially that women entrepreneurs can be courageous when we know we have a network that has our back,” said Nicole Szymczak, founder of Believe Sports. “There are a lot of resources in our community, including amazing women and people at MSUFCU who will walk with you and help you feel safe along the way when you’re taking one of the most courageous steps of your life or career.”
The second half of the program included a workshop on “Financial Empowerment for Entrepreneurs” led by Jessica Willis, Pocketnest founder and CEO, and Nicole Dilts, MSUFCU Vice President of Commercial Solutions. The concluding workshop presented by M3 Group Chief Operations Officer Shelley Davis Boyd focused on “Building Your Brand and Growing Your Audience.”
“It was a nice event being surrounded by women of all success levels,” said Monica Gauthier, co-founder of Groovy Donuts. “It was unique in a different way for me because it wasn’t solely focused on process and tools but also feelings and being encouraged to listen to your gut instinct.”
Attendees were the first businesses in Michigan to hear about Pillur Business Banking, MSUFCU’s new financial solution designed to support entrepreneurs, startups, and small-business owners. More information is available at pillur.org.
