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Reimagining Capital: How Innovative Funding Models Strengthen Communities and Businesses
Friday May 16, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Canyon Center
Traditional approaches to business financing often prioritize rapid growth and short-term returns for shareholders but what if capital could do more than just fuel expansion and wealth for only a few? What if it could build stronger, more resilient communities?

This panel explores alternative financing strategies that go beyond conventional investment models to create lasting local impact and stronger businesses. We’ll hear from innovators who are reshaping how businesses access and deploy capital. Tana Schultz from SOIL Boulder will discuss how community-funded, no-interest loans are empowering small farms and strengthening local food systems. Verity Noble from Nude Foods will share how raising funds through WeFunder has turned customers into investors, creating deeper engagement and long-term business sustainability. Cindy Willard, an expert in impact investing, will break down Direct Public Offerings (DPOs) and how mission-driven businesses can attract values-aligned capital. Matt Licina from the National Center of Employee Ownership will dive into the power of employee ownership and how selling a business to its workers not only secures a founder’s legacy but also fosters equitable wealth distribution.

Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking funding, an investor looking to make a difference, or simply curious about how capital can be a tool for community wealth-building, this discussion will provide actionable insights into how strategic approaches to capital can strengthen businesses and the economies they operate in.
Session Facilitators
avatar for Cindy Willard

Cindy Willard

Senior Director Capital Activation, Impact Charitable
Cindy believes the power of relationships and the intentionality of capital will create a more equitable world. She has deep experience as a Colorado thought leader in philanthropic strategy, grantmaking and program development.She began her career in journalism and community relations... Read More →
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avatar for Andrea Steffes-Tuttle

Andrea Steffes-Tuttle

Owner, Think Better Marketing
Friday May 16, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Canyon Center 1881 9th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
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Attendees (3)


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