Allen County Leaders Luncheon: Expanding CDFI Capacity for Small Businesses and Individuals
The Allen County Leaders Luncheons are an event series designed to inspire and educate with topics chosen for their relevancy to GFW Inc. members and our community.
Join us for this event designed to strengthen capital access, foster collaboration, and identify actionable solutions to building community development financial institutions (CDFIs). This luncheon brings together industry leaders, financial institutions, and community stakeholders to explore proven strategies and uncover new funding opportunities.
What to Expect:
- Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) 101
- Allen County’s status as a CDFI desert
- Insights from a nationally recognized CDFI leader and member of the Aspen Institute’s inclusive finance workgroup
- Outline of GFW Inc.'s Allen County Together (ACT) economic development plan to enhance our community's entrepreneurial ecosystem
- Examples of successful partnerships between CDFIs, banks, credit unions, businesses, and philanthropic organizations
- Encouragement for stakeholders to commit to advancing capital access initiatives
Speakers to be announced soon! Space will be limited, so reserve your seat now.
Event Details:
- Please note if you will need dietary or accessibility accommodations in your registration.
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 2
- NOTE: Payment is considered your reservation and is non-refundable.
Thank you to our community partner, Brightpoint Development Fund, for leading CDFI access and expansion.

For sponsorship opportunities or questions, contact:
Meghan Short, Director of Investor Programs, mshort@greaterfortwayneinc.com
Event Sponsors

Date and Time
Wednesday Jul 9, 2025
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM EDT
Agenda:
11:00am Check-In & Lunch / Connection Time
11:30am Welcome & Opening Remarks
11:45am CDFI 101 & MythBusters
12:25pm Panel with CDFI Stakeholders
12:55pm Closing Remarks & Call to Action
1:00pm Event Concludes
Location
Brotherhood Mutual Insurance
Event Center Auditorium
Free parking on site adjacent to building.
Fees/Admission
$35.00/person
Contact Information
Meghan Short
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