As The Startup Ladies celebrate our 10th anniversary, we are thrilled to recognize and honor the incredible leaders who have educated, sponsored, and invested in our members over the past decade. From hosting over 400 events to helping founders secure nearly one million dollars in investment, we have reached remarkable milestones that demonstrate our unwavering commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. We've published 50 articles—37 of which appeared in the Indianapolis Business Journal—and have won several prestigious awards along the way.
The Startup Ladies is powered by a dedicated full-time leader, supported by interns, our Board, and our Ambassadors. Together, we have created an unparalleled platform that provides women founders with the education, community, and access to capital that no other organization or program in the Midwest can match. We are incredibly proud to honor all the people who have generously given their time, connections, and resources to transform the startup landscape for women, making it a more equitable and inclusive space for all.
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Distinguished Service Award
Activism for Black Founders
Anita Williams
Program Director, Indy Black Chamber of Commerce
Anita Williams is a trailblazing activist whose tireless dedication has been instrumental in creating opportunities for Black founders and business owners in our community.
For over a decade, Anita has been a driving force in the Indy Black Chamber of Commerce (IBCC), where she has worked relentlessly to ensure that Black entrepreneurs have a seat at the table. Her leadership has been pivotal in educating business owners, connecting them with critical contracts, and fostering collaborations that open doors for Black leaders across industries.
Through her service on The Startup Ladies Board, Anita has played a crucial role in identifying and uplifting women founders, particularly in her work with our annual #InvestInWomenFounders Summit. Her unwavering commitment to activism goes beyond mere advocacy; Anita is a hands-on leader who takes the time to deeply understand the challenges that marginalized founders face. Her approach ensures that Black entrepreneurs not only receive support but do so in a way that respects and meets their unique needs on their terms.
Anita's influence as a tireless activist for Black business owners has left an indelible mark on our community. Her work has not only created tangible opportunities for Black founders but has also paved the way for future generations of entrepreneurs to thrive. We are incredibly grateful for her leadership, passion, and the lasting impact she continues to make. Thank you, Anita, for your extraordinary service and unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion in the business world.
Distinguished Service Award
Inclusive Community Connector
Christi Garcia
Lead Recruiter, E-gineering
Christi Garcia is being honored with the Distinguished Service Award as an Inclusive Community Connector, a testament to how she embodies the very essence of The Startup Ladies' values. In her time with our organization, Christi has consistently demonstrated the importance of building strong, supportive networks that empower women to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Her approach is characterized by a deep commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and the belief that meaningful connections are the foundation of success. Christi’s dedication to fostering relationships that uplift women entrepreneurs, investors, and enterprise executives reflects the core mission of The Startup Ladies, making her an indispensable part of our community.
Christi’s impact is evident in the tangible successes she has helped facilitate. Through her connections, one Startup Lady secured a $25,000 investment, a critical boost that enabled the founder to take her business to the next level. Additionally, Christi hosted a reception at E-gineering for one of last year's Top 9 members, creating a platform for the founder to share her vision with prospective investors. These actions not only showcase Christi’s ability to bring people together but also highlight her commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs in meaningful and practical ways.
The Startup Ladies are dedicated to supporting women at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey—from idea inception to scaling successful businesses. By providing access to vital resources, networking opportunities, and educational programs, The Startup Ladies empower women to navigate the complex landscape of entrepreneurship. A key component of this mission is connecting women founders with the right investors and mentors, enabling them to grow their businesses sustainably and confidently.
Christi Garcia embodies this mission with her unique ability to build and nurture relationships that lead to tangible opportunities for women entrepreneurs. Her work aligns perfectly with The Startup Ladies' vision of fostering an environment where women, investors, and executives collaborate to drive innovation and economic growth. We are proud to honor Christi Garcia with the Distinguished Service Award for her unwavering dedication to building a more inclusive and connected entrepreneurial community.
Distinguished Service Award
Sponsoring Women Founders
Anna Eaglin
Senior Product Manager, Grow Therapy
Anna's unwavering commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion within the tech industry and beyond is unstoppable. As a staunch activist for LGBTQ+ rights and a bonafide feminist, Anna has dedicated herself to creating spaces where underrepresented voices can thrive. Her activism is not just about advocacy but also about tangible support; for years, Anna has sponsored the membership cost for a woman founder, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of entrepreneurial success.
Anna’s contributions reflect her deep belief in the power of community and the importance of lifting others as she climbs. Through her actions, she has empowered women and LGBTQ+ individuals to take their rightful place in the tech industry, fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for all. Anna’s work aligns perfectly with the values of The Startup Ladies, and we are proud to honor her with the Trailblazer Award for her exceptional leadership and dedication to creating a more just and inclusive world.
Distinguished Startup Lady
Building Tech to Save Lives
Jessica Bussert
Founder, President, & CEO, Wave Therapeutics
Jessica is being honored for her groundbreaking work in health technology. As a visionary entrepreneur, Jessica is leading the charge in developing life-saving innovations that address critical needs within the healthcare industry. Wave Therapeutics, under her leadership, has pioneered a unique, patent-pending therapeutic technology designed to prevent pressure injuries—a solution that stands to revolutionize care for the mobility-impaired population.
The company’s flagship product, an active therapeutic wheelchair cushion, is set to change the market by providing affordable, next-generation care to those who need it most. This smart cushion not only enhances comfort but also provides vital metrics and analytics, empowering users and caregivers to anticipate and prevent potential health issues. Jessica’s commitment to quality and accessibility is evident in her dedication to ensuring that these innovative solutions are available to seniors, veterans, SCI patients, and anyone in need.
As an SBA Certified Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business, Wave Therapeutics reflects Jessica’s determination to build a company that not only thrives in the marketplace but also makes a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals. Her work exemplifies the spirit of innovation and the drive to create technologies that save lives and improve the quality of life for people around the world. We are proud to recognize Jessica Bussert as a Distinguished Startup Lady, honoring her exceptional contributions to health tech and her unwavering commitment to making a difference.
MENTAL HEALTH LEADERSHIP
Distinguished Service Award
Pioneer in Mental Health Education for Founders
Lynne Hynes, PhD
Therapist, Broad Ripple Therapy Associates
We are honored to present Lynn Hynes, PhD, with the Distinguished Service Award as a Pioneer in Mental Health Education for Founders. Lynn's unique journey from business owner to psychologist has equipped her with an unparalleled perspective, enabling her to deeply understand the complexities and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs.
Her commitment to helping women business owners navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of leadership has been transformative for our community. Through her expertise, Lynn has empowered countless women to better understand themselves and those around them, fostering psychologically safe environments where both founders and their teams can thrive.
Lynn’s work extends far beyond traditional mentorship—she has provided life-saving therapy to members of The Startup Ladies, demonstrating her profound impact on the mental well-being of our community. Her wisdom, care, and dedication to creating safe spaces for women have not only supported individual growth but have also strengthened the collective resilience of women founders.
We are deeply grateful for Lynn’s pioneering contributions to mental health education for entrepreneurs. Her tireless efforts to empower women with the tools they need to actualize their potential and uplift others have left an indelible mark on our community. Thank you, Lynn, for your extraordinary service and for being a beacon of support and strength for so many.
Distinguished Service Award
Leadership in Mental Health Education
Ranada Dalton
Therapist & co-founder/co-owner, Empowered Living Inc.
Ranada has provided invaluable safe spaces where leaders can fully embrace their authentic selves, navigate the external pressures of politics, and cope with challenges outside their control. Her compassionate approach has helped countless individuals in leadership positions find strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
In addition to her one-on-one work, Ranada has also developed and delivered several "Mental Wellness for Business" programs. These initiatives have not only enhanced entrepreneurs' understanding of racial inequities but have also empowered business owners to actively support employees of color, fostering more inclusive and equitable workplaces.
Ranada’s dedication to mental health education and her unwavering support for leaders and entrepreneurs make her an invaluable asset to our community. Her leadership in addressing the intersection of mental wellness and social justice is truly inspiring, and we are deeply grateful for her contributions. Thank you, Ranada, for your outstanding service and for being a powerful advocate for mental health and equity in business. You are awesome!
EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Distinguished Service Award
Pitch Advising, Mentoring & Board Leadership
Sara Norris
Co-owner & CEO, When You Leave The Room, LLC.
Sara is being recognized for her outstanding contributions to the growth and development of women founders. As the retired founder of When You Leave the Room, Sara has been a beacon of wisdom, strategy, and support within The Startup Ladies community.
Sara's expertise as a public speaker and coach has been invaluable to countless women seeking to master the art of communication, particularly in understanding the crucial differences between a pitch and a presentation. Her guidance in media relations training has equipped many entrepreneurs with the skills needed to navigate the public eye with confidence and clarity.
As a long-standing board member of The Startup Ladies, Sara has consistently provided vision and strategy that have shaped the direction of our organization. Her dedication to mentoring up-and-coming women founders has ensured that they not only craft compelling pitches and presentations but also secure the investments necessary to fuel their ventures.
Sara is more than just an expert—she is a confidant and a source of unwavering positivity for every woman she encounters. Her gentle yet brilliant approach to education and mentorship has empowered a new generation of women entrepreneurs to step into their full potential. We are deeply grateful for Sara's leadership, her wisdom, and her enduring commitment to uplifting others. Thank you, Sara, for your remarkable service and the profound impact you have made on our community.
Distinguished Service Award
Technology Mentoring and Advising
Jason M. Kelly, PhD
Professor, History | Adjunct Professor, Africana Studies and American Studies
Dr. Kelly has been involved with The Startup Ladies since day one. His ability to advise leadership on the critical intersection of technology and the humanities has been instrumental in helping our community articulate the complex narratives surrounding the obstacles and opportunities that women founders face both in the U.S. and globally. His work has illuminated the broader context within which these challenges exist, offering a deeper, more nuanced approach to supporting women in the startup space.
Dr. Kelly's insights into the power of storytelling and the strategic use of data have empowered leaders to make more informed and compassionate decisions, ultimately driving forward the mission of creating a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial landscape.
Behind the scenes, Dr. Kelly has also provided tech support on multiple platforms including Google Classroom and Hubspot--support that has been important to maintaining the Startup Ladies' digital presence.
This award honors Dr. Kelly's exceptional service, his interdisciplinary approach to mentoring, and his unwavering commitment to advancing the role of women in technology and entrepreneurship. We are deeply grateful for his contributions, which have profoundly shaped our community and the future of women-owned innovation. Thank you, Dr. Kelly, for your visionary leadership and for being a champion of women's empowerment in the tech and entrepreneurial sectors.
Distinguished Service Award
Technology Mentoring and Advising
Roger Deetz
VP of Engineering, Blueprint
Roger Deetz, is a Startup Ladies Ambassador and a visionary leader whose unwavering commitment to advancing women in technology has left an indelible mark on our community. Roger has been instrumental in leading several Startup Study Halls, where his guidance and mentorship have empowered countless women founders to navigate the challenges of the tech industry with confidence and skill.
As the creator of Indiana Tech for Progress, Roger has championed the integration of technology into the startup ecosystem, providing critical resources and fostering an environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive. His dedication to mentoring has not only accelerated the growth of individual startups but has also contributed significantly to the broader mission of achieving gender equity in the tech sector.
Throughout his distinguished career, Roger has supported and inspired numerous women in tech, offering his expertise and insight generously. His contributions have helped bridge the gender gap in technology, ensuring that women founders have the support they need to succeed. This award celebrates Roger's exceptional service, his passion for technology, and his relentless efforts to uplift women in the startup community.
Thank you, Roger, for your extraordinary leadership and for being a true ally to women in tech. Your impact will be felt for generations to come.
Distinguished Service Award
Technology Mentoring and Advising
Rick McGlinchey
Co-Founder & CEO, PureInsights
Rick McGlinchey is a gentle and wise leader whose unique blend of technical expertise and mindfulness has profoundly influenced our community. As a tech founder and meditation guru, Rick brings a holistic approach to mentoring, guiding women founders not only in understanding their tech strategies and business models but also in finding balance and clarity in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Rick's advice has been invaluable to our CEO and numerous women founders, helping them navigate the complexities of growth and innovation in the tech industry. His ability to connect on a deep, personal level while providing strategic direction has empowered many women entrepreneurs to achieve their goals with confidence and purpose.
Throughout his career, Rick has shown unwavering dedication to supporting women in tech, offering his wisdom and expertise with compassion and humility. His contributions have not only strengthened individual startups but have also enriched the broader startup ecosystem, making it more inclusive and supportive for women founders.
This award celebrates Rick's exceptional service, his profound impact on the tech community, and his gentle yet powerful approach to mentorship. Thank you, Rick, for being a beacon of support and inspiration for women in the tech industry. Your contributions have made a lasting difference in the lives of many, and we are deeply grateful for your continued dedication.
CORPORATE LEADERSHIP
Distinguished Service Award Sponsoring Innovative Internships
Rhaya Shilts
Rhaya Shilts, owner of Jackson Sky Web Design & Development and long-time Ambassador for The Startup Ladies, has consistently demonstrated her commitment to fostering growth and innovation within our organization.
This year, Rhaya's collaboration with The Startup Ladies led to the successful INTAP grant in the amount of $15,000 from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation aimed at upgrading our eLearning platform. This critical project is set to enhance the learning experience for entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate executives, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to start and scale successful businesses.
Rhaya’s leadership in this initiative has not only driven technological advancements but has also provided several diverse college students with invaluable internship opportunities. Under the mentorship of Rhaya and Kristen Cooper, these students have engaged in real-world problem-solving and innovation, learned how to create a Goolge Classroom, update Wix and gained hands-on experience that will shape their futures.
Beyond her work on this project, Rhaya has generously shared her expertise with the community, leading multiple Startup Study Halls focused on the art of bringing a brand to life. She has a unique talent for helping entrepreneurs understand how to craft experiences that resonate with customers, ultimately defining how a brand is perceived in the market.
Rhaya’s bright, positive energy is infectious, and her ability to think strategically on a macro level while guiding detailed, step-by-step execution on a micro level has been instrumental in helping others achieve their goals.
We are proud to honor Rhaya Shilts with the Distinguished Service Award for her unwavering dedication to innovation, education, and the empowerment of the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Distinguished Service Award
Corporate & Community Bridge Builder
Jon Dartt
Member, Westfield City Council
Jon Dartt is being recognized for his outstanding contributions to both The Startup Ladies and the broader community. During his tenure as Senior Vice President of Sales at Delta Faucet Company, Jon forged a strong and lasting relationship with The Startup Ladies, bringing the Delta team into the fold and hosting several impactful events at the Delta Faucet Company headquarters. His efforts helped create a vibrant connection between the corporate world and the entrepreneurial community, fostering collaboration and support for women founders.
Now retired from Delta, Jon continues to serve the community as a city counselor for Westfield, IN, where his leadership and strategic insight are invaluable. Jon regularly advises the CEO of The Startup Ladies, offering his expertise in high-level strategy while also mentoring several of our members, including Jessica Bussert. His ability to think strategically and develop people ensures that they are well-prepared to implement the strategies he helps craft.
Jon also leads the interviewer training for our annual #InvestInWomenFounders Summit, which this year will take place on Thursday, December 5, from noon to 6 pm at the Delta Faucet Company. Beyond his strategic acumen, Jon is a dear friend to The Startup Ladies, our official Tequila connoisseur, and someone who brings joy and fun to every gathering. We are proud to honor Jon Dartt with this award, celebrating his dedication to building bridges between corporations and our entrepreneurial community.
#InvestInWomenFounders Award
Commitment to Supporting Women Founders
Delta Faucet Company
Jill Ehnes, Amy Bartley, Doug Burnette, Liz Conzo-Kershner, David Cooprider, Nathan Drook, Pam Gilbert, Stacy Mowrer, Caitlin Smarrelli, Jai Shah
Delta Faucet Company is being honored with the #InvestInWomenFounders Award for its extraordinary commitment to supporting women founders. Over the years, Delta has generously opened the doors of its beautiful headquarters to The Startup Ladies community, hosting several lunches and four half-day events that have provided a platform for our investor-ready founders to connect with prospective investors. Thanks to Delta’s support, nearly one million dollars have been invested into companies founded by Startup Ladies, fueling their growth and success.
This remarkable collaboration was made possible by the visionary leadership of Jon Dartt, Ken Roberts, and Stacy Mowrer, who recognized the potential of partnering with The Startup Ladies to uplift women entrepreneurs. Behind the scenes, the operational team—including Doug Burnette, David Cooprider, and Nathan Drook—ensured that every event ran smoothly, from preparing the space to making sure our technology was flawless. Pam Gilbert and her dedicated team of Delta employees volunteered their time to assist with guest check-ins, wayfinding, and coordinating volunteers, making each event a success. Liz Conzo-Kershner and Caitlin Smarrelli have both been engaging speakers at Startup Ladies events.
At the heart of this partnership is Amy Bartley, the ultimate internal leader and go-getter, who has been the chief organizer and liaison between our organizations. Amy’s tireless efforts have ensured that every detail was meticulously planned and executed, making Delta Faucet Company a true champion of women entrepreneurs.
Today, with Jill Ehnes at the helm at Delta, we continue to do great work together. The collective dedication of these outstanding Delta employees has been instrumental in helping our Startup Ladies start up, scale up, and secure the investments needed to grow.
We are proud to present Delta Faucet Company with the #InvestInWomenFounders Award, celebrating their unwavering support and commitment to empowering women founders.
Distinguished Service Award
Educating and Sponsoring Women Founders
RSM Team
Angelo Stanco and Stacey Lichtle
RSM US LLP is being honored with the Educating and Sponsoring Women Founders Award for its exceptional commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs through education and support. As the leading U.S. provider of assurance, tax, and consulting services focused on the middle market, RSM has been a steadfast partner to The Startup Ladies, providing invaluable resources and opportunities to our community.
For years, the RSM team has generously welcomed us into their beautiful space, hosting a combination of Startup Study Halls and Startup Investing 101 Programming. These events have provided our members with critical knowledge and insights to help them navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and investment.
Stacey Lichtle has played a pivotal role in this partnership, taking time to field phone calls, provide mentoring to our members, and go out of her way to make meaningful introductions to individuals and companies who have since become valued members of The Startup Ladies. Her dedication to fostering connections and supporting our community has made a lasting impact.
Angelo Stanco, another key figure within RSM, has been an internal sponsor and advocate for our community, consistently collaborating with and connecting people over the years. His efforts have strengthened our relationship with RSM and expanded the network of support available to our members.
We are deeply grateful for the relationship we have built with RSM and the incredible support provided by Stacey, Angelo, and the entire RSM team. Their commitment to educating and sponsoring women founders has been instrumental in the growth and success of many entrepreneurs in our community. We look forward to continuing this partnership and growing together in the years to come.
Distinguished Service Award
Scale Up Strategy & Sponsorship
Julie Warnecke
Founder and CEO, Found Search Marketing, LLC.
Julie Warnecke, Founder and CEO of Found Search Marketing, LLC (FoundSM), and her company are being honored with the Distinguished Service Award for Scale Up Strategy & Sponsorship, recognizing her outstanding contributions as a Corporate Sponsor.
FoundSM, a digital marketing agency based in Indianapolis, specializes in PPC, Social Ads, SEO, Web Analytics, and Conversion Rate Optimization. Under Julie’s leadership, FoundSM has provided invaluable support and strategic guidance, empowering women entrepreneurs within The Startup Ladies community to scale their businesses effectively.
Julie’s deep commitment to The Startup Ladies is evident not only in her role as a strategic sponsor but also in her long-standing involvement with the organization. She was the very first speaker at Startup Study Hall in 2015, and it is fitting that she now hosts our 10th Anniversary celebration. Julie has served on The Startup Ladies Board almost since the beginning, consistently bringing her expertise and readiness to tackle complex business challenges that require sharp strategy.
Julie’s contributions have been instrumental in the success of many women-owned startups, helping them navigate the challenges of growth with confidence. Her dedication to fostering innovation and providing strategic support exemplifies the collaborative spirit of The Startup Ladies. We are proud to recognize Julie Warnecke and Found Search Marketing with this award, celebrating their significant impact on the growth and success of women founders.
INVESTOR LEADERSHIP
Distinguished Investor Award
Commitment to Funding & Mentoring Women Founders
Richard Millunchick
Startup Advisor and Investor
Richard Millunchick is being honored with the Distinguished Investor Award in recognition of his exceptional commitment to funding and mentoring women founders as a Startup Advisor and Investor. A dedicated board member for the past three years, Richard has consistently demonstrated his support for women entrepreneurs through his active participation in The Startup Ladies community. He has shared his expertise as a speaker at Startup Investing 101, where he provided invaluable insights to aspiring investors and founders alike.
Richard stands out as an ally in the startup space, not only for his professionalism but also for his deep understanding of the unique challenges that women founders face. His ongoing mentorship of several Startup Ladies has been instrumental in helping them navigate the complexities of building and scaling their businesses. Additionally, Richard has shown his commitment to advancing women founders by consistently investing in women-owned businesses, providing the financial backing necessary for their growth.
Richard's contributions extend to his role on the selection committee for the #InvestInWomenFounders Summit, where he has helped identify the most talented and investor-ready founders for the past two years. His experience in building and successfully exiting a tech company brings invaluable perspective and support to our women founders, enabling them to achieve their entrepreneurial goals with confidence.
As we approach the third annual #InvestInWomenFounders Summit on December 5 at Delta Faucet Company in Indianapolis, we are proud to honor Richard Millunchick with the Distinguished Investor Award, celebrating his unwavering dedication to empowering women founders through funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance.
#InvestInWomenFounders Award
Commitment to Equitable Investment in Women
Jon Gilman
Director at Microsoft
Jon Gilman is being recognized with the #InvestInWomenFounders Award for his unwavering Commitment to Equitable Investment in Women. A true pioneer in the low-code space, Jon built and successfully sold Clear Software to Microsoft, where he now serves as a Director. Throughout his career, Jon has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing women entrepreneurs within the startup ecosystem.
Jon has generously shared his expertise with The Startup Ladies community, teaching at both Startup Study Hall and Startup Investing 101. His impact, however, goes far beyond education—Jon has made significant financial investments in several women-owned startups, more than any other individual in our community. His dedication to equitable investment has provided critical support to women founders, enabling them to scale their businesses and achieve lasting success.
Currently, Jon is focused on developing technology that will help founders manage their mental health—a crucial aspect of sustaining both personal and professional well-being. His work in this area reflects his holistic approach to supporting entrepreneurs, recognizing that success in business is deeply intertwined with mental and emotional health.
Jon is not only a smart and successful entrepreneur but also an activist for women in the startup space. He speaks publicly about the need for leaders in technology to take a stand on political issues, especially those that impact marginalized communities. Jon's voice is a powerful advocate for those who cannot speak up for fear of retribution, and his leadership sets a strong example for others in the industry.
We hope that more business owners who exit their ventures will follow Jon’s exemplary lead by getting involved in The Startup Ladies community, sharing their wisdom, resources, and funding to help grow the next wave of startups into sustainable scale-ups. By doing so, they can contribute to the creation of great-paying jobs, bolster our local economy, and ensure that the startup ecosystem remains vibrant and inclusive.
We are proud to honor Jon Gilman with the #InvestInWomenFounders Award, celebrating his extraordinary commitment to equitable investment and his advocacy for women entrepreneurs.
BECOME A MEMBER!
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For more information email Info@TheStartupLadies.org.
Review our events calendar, purchase a ticket to an upcoming event open to the public.
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