Women in Noblesville (WIN) is celebrating its 10-year anniversary as part of the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce. WIN was founded with the goal of connecting women in business for networking, education and mutual support. Kathy Young, a commercial banker with First Merchants Bank and a longtime member of the chamber, has been a key part of WIN’s journey and growth over the last several years.
“Ten years ago the chamber staff decided to gather a group of women, and that’s really how WIN started,” Young explains. “I was one of the first members of that initial group, and over time it has grown and evolved into what it is today.”
As a co-chair of WIN, Young says the organization’s momentum and increasing recognition is its most impactful accomplishment. “In the last couple of years, more women know about WIN and its role as part of the chamber,” she says. This growing awareness reflects the organization’s commitment to creating a supportive space for women in Noblesville.
WIN started with WIN Week, offering a variety of events throughout a week each November. These included luncheons, breakfasts and after-hours gatherings, all designed to provide learning and networking opportunities for women in business. As the group evolved, members wanted to engage more frequently. This led to the introduction of quarterly luncheons and eventually the popular monthly Coffee and Connect sessions, held at the Sagamore Club on the second Wednesday of each month. These events typically draw 35 to 45-plus women, with many being first-time attendees.
In the past, WIN has hosted full-day conferences, offering deeper dives into topics relevant to professional women. Although the conference was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, WIN has adapted by focusing on other priorities and adjusting its programming to meet the needs of its members today.
Over the years WIN has evolved from casual gatherings to a structured organization with intentional goals, events and topics of conversation. “We’ve become more intentional about our programming and goals, making sure everything we do fits within our mission,” Young explains. A key initiative from this mission is the focus on celebrating women’s accomplishments. “As women, we often don’t celebrate ourselves enough,” Young says. “We need to do a better job of celebrating our accomplishments and supporting each other.”
WIN has implemented business visits to highlight women-owned businesses in Noblesville, promoting them on social media and building a stronger community network in person and online.
Recently, a new fund has been created called the Women’s Business Fund, within the Advancing Noblesville Chamber Foundation. This fund was launched in celebration of WIN’s 10th anniversary, and aims to support women entrepreneurs by providing resources and education. The fund is still in its early stages, with plans to offer scholarships for entrepreneurial workshops and training, amongst other plans that have yet to be determined.
WIN has numerous success stories from women who have benefited from its events and network. Young shares that women have met future business partners, secured new jobs, developed coaching relationships and created lasting friendships through WIN events. “Coming to any WIN event, you’re going to meet someone,” she says. “The energy in the room is always so positive.”
As WIN celebrates its 10th anniversary, it’s the perfect time to join the community and build your professional network. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or just looking to connect with like-minded women, WIN offers a supportive environment where you can grow and thrive.
Contact the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce today to learn more about WIN events and how to get involved. Readers are encouraged to support the WIN Women’s Business Fund by making a donation at the following link: https://square.link/u/cuOYGwo2.
