Central Indiana Women’s Business Center Announces 2026 Advisory Council Leadership
New council to guide strategy and support women entrepreneurs across Central Indiana
INDIANAPOLIS. 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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About the Indy Chamber
The Indy Chamber champions a stronger regional economy by connecting people, supporting business, and shaping places that thrive. From bold advocacy to smart economic development and inclusive business growth, we bring together public and private leadership to keep the Indy region moving forward. As we work to strengthen the foundation of our economy, we focus on big ideas, fast action, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. With momentum, collaboration, and pride in our region, the Indy Chamber is building a future where the Indy region leads the Midwest and competes on a global stage.
Jeffrey Harrison Named Chairman of Indy Chamber Board of Directors
INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 26, 2026) — The Indy Chamber recently announced that Jeffrey Harrison, President & CEO of Citizens Energy Group, has been elected Chairman of the Indy Chamber Board of Directors at its December meeting, succeeding Browning CEO John Hirschman in the role. He anchors a slate of new Board leadership for the organization, which includes Mike Ash of Fifth Third Bank as Vice Chair, Claire Fiddian-Greene of the Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation as Treasurer, and Gordon Brooks of Eli Lilly & Co. as Secretary.
Harrison leads Citizens Energy Group, a public charitable trust and one of Indiana’s largest utility providers. He joined Citizens in 2003 and served in various executive capacities before becoming President & CEO in 2015. He is an alumnus of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and Indiana University, and has more than three decades of experience in the utility industry. Additionally, Harrison’s volunteer engagement beyond his support of the Indy Chamber includes such organizations as the United Way of Central Indiana, the Center for Leadership Development, the Indianapolis Zoo, Goodwill Education Initiatives Inc, Marian University, the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, Rose-Hulman, the Indiana Energy Association, and more.
“It’s an honor to help lead a premier civic institution that has shaped the Indianapolis region for generations,” said Harrison. “The Indy Chamber is where business and community come together to move Central Indiana forward. I’m excited to work with our board and partners to build momentum by expanding opportunity, strengthening our workforce, and ensuring the Indy region continues to compete and win.”
“Jeff brings a proven record of operational leadership, long-term stewardship, and deep commitment to community impact,” said Matt Mindrum, President and CEO of the Indy Chamber. “Jeff’s leadership will help us keep pushing for the kind of coordinated progress that grows the Indy region’s economy for all, moving with urgency and purpose to accelerate what’s next.”
Harrison will lead the Indy Chamber Board in supporting the organization’s mission to accelerate the Indy region’s economy for all and its strategic agenda to fuel regional growth and competitiveness, connect talent to opportunity, and elevate the region’s story.
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About the Indy Chamber
The Indy Chamber champions a stronger regional economy by connecting people, supporting business, and shaping places that thrive. From bold advocacy to smart economic development and inclusive business growth, we bring together public and private leadership to keep the Indy region moving forward. As we work to strengthen the foundation of our economy, we focus on big ideas, fast action, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. With momentum, collaboration, and pride in our region, the Indy Chamber is building a future where the Indy region leads the Midwest and competes on a global stage.
Five Ways to Cut Costs and Boost Retention at Your Office
Best Practice Article by: Melissa St. John of Relocation Strategies
As Q1 commences, companies are exploring cost-effective strategies to enhance presence and productivity in the office. The transition back to in-person work following the pandemic has prompted organizations to seek maximum value from their real estate investments. CBRE Group reports office vacancies have surged to around 19%, with projections indicating that by the end of 2025, office conversions and demolitions may outpace new constructions for the first time in 25 years. This landscape presents a vital opportunity for businesses to optimize costs through careful analysis. At Relocation Strategies (Relo), we offer workplace solutions that align with clients’ goals, driven by real data. Here are five cost-saving strategies to consider as we enter 2026.
1. Assess Your Current Workplace
Start by evaluating the productivity and efficiency of your office. Ask yourself: Is your environment conducive to productivity? How often are employees working on-site? Research shows that 50% of workers prefer working in the office part-time under a hybrid schedule. Understanding how your team interacts with the space can guide necessary adjustments.
2. Evaluate Your Space Needs
Could you significantly reduce your office size and sublease the extra? Many organizations discover their office footprint exceeds their actual requirements, especially with hybrid work models. Analyzing space utilization can help identify underused areas and prioritize those vital for collaboration. Strategic downsizing can lower operating expenses and permit budget reallocations toward technology and development.
3. Refresh Your Office Design
A surprising 62% of employees are disengaged at work, suggesting untapped potential for productivity gains. Simple design updates—from rearranging furniture to revamping shared spaces—can boost morale. Investing in the work environment reflects leadership’s commitment to employee satisfaction and fosters stronger engagement.
4. Upgrade Furniture on a Budget
Upgrading doesn’t necessarily involve buying new items. Consider gently used or refurbished furniture to stretch budgets. This approach promotes sustainability and can yield a fresh, professional appearance.
5. Manage Workplace Noise
Noise is a significant distraction that impacts focus. Solutions like adding phone rooms and establishing quiet hours can enhance productivity and create a calmer, more effective environment.
Indy Chamber Announces the 2026 Advance 317 Delegates
Creative, civic, and business leaders unite ahead of the Chamber’s 2026 International Leadership Exchange
INDIANAPOLIS (January 14, 2026) – Today, the Indy Chamber announced the selection of ten local leaders who will serve as delegates of the 2026 Advance 317 program, an initiative designed to bring fresh perspectives and diverse voices into the Indy Chamber’s annual Leadership Exchange experience. Advance 317 (A317) was developed to intentionally integrate leaders from creative industries alongside the region’s established civic, corporate, and non-profit decision-makers who participate in the Leadership Exchange (LEX).
The 2026 Leadership Exchange experience will take place in Dublin, Ireland, with a focus on economic development. During this international immersion, delegates will explore global best practices, engage with local leaders, and study strategies that support thriving metropolitan regions. Insights gained through LEX will be brought back to help inform and shape efforts across Central Indiana.
The Advance 317 program focuses on relationship-building, collaborative problem solving, and strengthening executive presence, while preparing delegates to serve as ambassadors for the Indy Region. As part of the 2026 cohort, A317 delegates will convene throughout the year to share ideas, engage in dialogue, and contribute to conversations that support the region’s long-term growth and competitiveness.
The 2026 Advanced 317 Delegates
Co-Chairs
Vincent Ash, Lauth Group
Sarah Reed, City of Noblesville
Delegates
Laurie Burns, Indy Chamber
Michael Green, Flags for Good
Oreo Jones, Chreece
Kavita Mahoney, Indy Arts Council
David McKissic, Cerebro Creative
Lauren Fadeley Veyette, Indy Ballet
Fabio Yataco, Indianapolis Foundation
Christine Zetzl, Visit Indy
“I’m excited about how strong, unique and diverse this Advance 317 delegation is, and I can’t wait to see how they help shape the discussions,” said Blaine Zimmerman Chief Talent and Marketing Officer, Indy Chamber. “LEX has a long track record of shaping major initiatives in the Indy Region, and integrating creative perspectives into these discussions ensures our strategies are imaginative, inclusive and culturally resonant.”
The Advance 317 cohort will participate in several key touchpoints throughout 2026, including collaborative meetings, experiential learning opportunities, and alignment with LEX milestones, leading up to the September departure.
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About the Indy Chamber
The Indy Chamber champions a stronger regional economy by connecting people, supporting business, and shaping places that thrive. From bold advocacy to smart economic development and inclusive business growth, we bring together public and private leadership to keep the Indy region moving forward. As we work to strengthen the foundation of our economy, we focus on big ideas, fast action, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. With momentum, collaboration, and pride in our region, the Indy Chamber is building a future where the Indy region leads the Midwest and competes on a global stage.