New council to guide strategy and support women entrepreneurs across Central Indiana
The Central Indiana Women’s Business Center (CIWBC) announced its 2026 Advisory Council leadership. The CIWBC is a cooperative program, funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, under the umbrella of the Business Ownership Initiative of Indiana (BOI) and a program of the Indy Chamber; designed to promote the creation and growth of businesses by women entrepreneurs by empowering them towards successful entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency.
The 2026 council is composed of regional leaders across business, finance, education, and entrepreneurship who will provide strategic guidance and support to advance CIWBC’s mission of empowering women-owned businesses throughout Central Indiana.
The CIWBC Advisory Council plays a critical role in shaping program strategy, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring the Center remains responsive to the evolving needs of women entrepreneurs. Council members bring diverse professional expertise and deep community connections, helping to expand access to resources, mentorship, and capital for women business owners.
“As CIWBC continues to grow its impact across the region, strong and engaged leadership is essential,” said Stephanie James, Director, CIWBC. “This council reflects the depth of talent and commitment needed to support women entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.”
The 2026 Advisory Council will help guide CIWBC into its next phase of growth, supporting strategic priorities, program innovation, and long-term sustainability while reinforcing the Center’s role as a trusted resource within the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem.
2026 CIWBC Advisory Council
Chair
Rebekah Payne, CPA – Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
Vice-Chair
Bette Smith – Director, Center for Innovation & Collaboration, Ball State University
Council Members
Stacie Porter Bilger – President & Founder, Proof Digital
Christina Collins – Executive Director, Ivy + Career Link Hamilton County
Deana R. Haworth, APR – Chief Executive Officer, Hirons
Jennifer Knotts – Chief Financial Officer, IDO Incorporated
Virginia Lizano-Pina – Owner, Amazing 360 Commercial Services
Becca Lomax – Associate Relationship Manager / Assistant Vice President, KeyBank
Victoria Petersen Elia – Associate Director, Career Services & External Relations, Founder’s College at Butler University
Patty Prosser Co-Founder and Coaching Practice Leader, The Center for Leadership Excellence
Melanie Raney – Commercial Manager, AES Indiana
Christina Toler – Vice President of Business Development, Indiana Sports Corporation
Kristin Weeden – Chief Talent Officer, Penske Entertainment / Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The newly appointed council will convene throughout 2026, working in partnership with CIWBC staff and the Indy Chamber to strengthen programming, expand community engagement, and support inclusive economic growth across the region. Learn more about the CIWBC at Central Indiana Women’s Business Center – Indy Chamber.
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