Sharing Capital Access Expertise Across the Region
Over the past several weeks, CDFI Friendly has been actively presenting across the region, connecting entrepreneurs, students, and community partners with practical insights on accessing capital and building stronger businesses.
Through workshops, panels, and training programs, the organization continues to help demystify the funding landscape for entrepreneurs—highlighting the many pathways that exist beyond traditional bank loans.
These presentations reflect CDFI Friendly’s ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurs across the region by expanding access to capital, strengthening partnerships, and helping business owners navigate the financial tools available to grow their ventures.
Interested in having Sam speak to your group? Send us an email and let us know so we can work together on some programming.
Recent presentations include:
February 25
Elkhart Small Business Resource Toolkit Launch
CDFI Friendly served on an expert panel at the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart during the launch of the Elkhart Small Business Resource Toolkit. The event brought together community partners to introduce a new resource designed to help entrepreneurs navigate local business support services, including access to capital, mentorship, and technical assistance.
Panelists discussed financing options available to entrepreneurs and the importance of building strong connections within the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Read more about the toolkit launch here:
https://www.cdfifriendlysouthbend.org/news/newelkhartbusinessresource
February 26
IU South Bend Entrepreneurship Certificate Program
The following day, CDFI Friendly presented at Indiana University South Bend’s Entrepreneurship Certificate Program, serving as the lead presenter for Capital Access Day.
The session focused on helping aspiring entrepreneurs understand the range of funding tools available to small businesses—from grants and crowdfunding to loans and community development financing. Participants explored how entrepreneurs can build effective capital stacks and prepare themselves to work with lenders and investors.
Learn more about the program here:
https://box.iusb.edu/cie/index.html
March 7
South Bend Entrepreneurship and Adversity Program (SBEAP)
CDFI Friendly also presented for the University of Notre Dame’s South Bend Entrepreneurship and Adversity Program (SBEAP) at the McKenna Center.
The session focused on making connections with financial institutions, providing entrepreneurs with practical guidance on how to approach lenders, communicate their business plans effectively, and build the relationships necessary to secure financing.
More information about the program is available here:
https://mckennacenter.nd.edu/global-programs/south-bend-entrepreneurship-and-adversity-program-sbeap/
March 10
Emerge Entrepreneurship Hub (Niles, Michigan)
CDFI Friendly also presented in Niles, Michigan for the Emerge Entrepreneurship Hub, leading a session focused on capital access for small businesses.
March 18
Startup Moxie speaker at St. Mary’s College
To cap off a busy 30 days of presentations Sam spoke to the Startup Moxie group. Startup Moxie is an immersive South Bend–area program that equips high school students with entrepreneurial skills through hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experiences. Participants explore ideas, build ventures, connect with local leaders, and develop confidence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities while earning academic credit and exposure to the regional startup ecosystem.
As regional interest in entrepreneurship continues to grow, CDFI Friendly looks forward to continuing to partner with organizations that are equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge, connections, and resources needed to succeed.
