Venture Center launches 2025 VCWoman Achieve program with 56 participants
by January 18, 2025 8:32 pm 188 views

VCWoman Achieve connects emerging women and non-binary entrepreneurs (mentees) with experienced professionals (mentors). After the program’s successful first three years, during which several statewide businesses scaled their operations, more than 120 applications were received from across the state for consideration to join the 2025 program. The finalists were chosen based on their diverse locations and backgrounds.
Among this year’s participants are:
Mentees (Central Arkansas):
Mentees (Northwest Arkansas):
“This program is about creating opportunities for meaningful growth and connection,” said Viktoria Capek, program manager for VCWoman Achieve and communications manager at The Venture Center. “The professionals in VCWoman Achieve bring such a wealth of talent and perspective. Through mentorship, they’re able to advance their ventures while also strengthening a network of leaders who genuinely support each other—navigating challenges together and celebrating successes along the way.”
VCWoman Achieve mentors volunteer their time to assist in building the mentees’ businesses and offer examples of success to follow. These volunteers include:
Mentors (Central Arkansas):
Mentors (Northwest Arkansas):
Fidelma Farinas, Head of Multinational Client Strategy, SVP at PNC Bank
“At Summit Utilities, empowering women is more than just a commitment; it’s a cornerstone of our culture,” said Cindy Westcott, vice president of operations at Summit Utilities, a presenting sponsor for the 2025 VCWoman Achieve program. “Through initiatives like VCWoman Achieve, we are creating spaces where women can thrive, connect, and grow together. We’re proud to sponsor VCWoman Achieve and support its mission of fostering meaningful mentorship and professional growth for women.”
“WLJ has long served as an advisor and advocate for women- and minority-owned businesses. Much like WLJ’s Woman-Run initiative, our goal with VCWoman Achieve is to build community among Arkansas’ women entrepreneurs and business leaders through relationships and resources,” said Rickie Smith, director of public relations for Wright Lindsey Jennings, a founding partner of VCWoman Achieve. “The networking opportunities, and increased access to capital and skill development are all invaluable results of the mentorship journey and can be particularly challenging for women entrepreneurs to access. With VCWoman Achieve and Woman-Run, we’re bucking historical obstacles and opening doors that strengthen women-owned businesses and our entire state.”