Board Retreat Focuses on Mission and Future Impact
The CDFI Friendly board of directors recently gathered for a strategic retreat at Momentum Hub in downtown South Bend, taking time to reflect on the organization’s growth and plan for the future.
The retreat provided an opportunity for board members and leadership to step away from regular meetings and focus on the long-term direction of the organization. As CDFI Friendly continues to expand its work supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening access to capital across the region, the board used the retreat to revisit core priorities and ensure the organization remains aligned with its purpose.
One of the key areas of focus during the retreat was the organization’s mission statement. Board members worked collaboratively to refine the language that defines CDFI Friendly’s role in the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem and the impact it seeks to create for small businesses and communities.
These conversations helped ensure that the mission clearly reflects the organization’s commitment to expanding access to capital, supporting entrepreneurs who may face barriers to traditional financing, and strengthening the broader ecosystem that helps businesses grow.
Hosting the retreat at Momentum Hub, a collaborative space designed to support innovation and entrepreneurship, provided a fitting environment for the discussion. The space has quickly become an important gathering place for organizations and leaders working to build a stronger entrepreneurial community in South Bend.
“Our recent board retreat allowed us to step back, evaluate our impact, and sharpen our priorities for the future,” said Breanna Allen, the Board Chair of CDFI Friendly. “This organization continues to thrive because of the committed leaders who bring their time, expertise, and passion to advancing our mission.”
Beyond strategic planning, the retreat also provided an opportunity for board members to connect more deeply with one another and reflect on the progress CDFI Friendly has made in its early years. We also were fed by, and heard from one of our business partners, Jim’s Smokin’ Cafe in Niles. Great way to see, and taste, the impact we are helping make a difference throughout the region.
With continued growth in partnerships, programs, and regional engagement, the board remains focused on ensuring that CDFI Friendly continues to play a meaningful role in helping entrepreneurs access the tools and capital they need to succeed.
We want to thank Sarah Hope Marshall of Profound Hope Industries for leading us through this process and being such a great advocate for our work, and then CDFI Industry.
