The Heart of Giving: Funding Innovation, Not just Fancy Dinners
- Built on YES
- Feb 12
- 4 min read
The Heart of Your Why: The BFD of Giving Back
There’s a moment in every entrepreneur’s journey when you realize—this isn’t just about making money. It’s about meaning. It’s about impact. It’s about knowing that success isn’t measured just in revenue but in what you do with it. And for women entrepreneurs? We’re already leading the charge.
Women give more than men. That’s not just an opinion—it’s backed by data. Across nearly every income level, single women donate more than their male counterparts. And when a woman’s income increases, household charitable giving jumps up by 5% (compared to just 3% for men) (LGT Wealth Management). Why? Because we see wealth as a tool for transformation, not just accumulation. We don’t just build businesses; we build communities.
Women Entrepreneurs Are Changing the Face of Philanthropy
Women-owned businesses aren’t just fueling the economy—they’re fueling change. Right now, there are over 14 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., generating $2.7 trillion in revenue and employing more than 12 million people (National Women’s Business Council). And here’s the kicker—73% of women-owned businesses donate to charitable causes, compared to 62% of male-owned businesses (Women & Philanthropy Report, Wells Fargo).
We invest in what matters: safer communities, greener practices, more equitable opportunities, and lifting others as we climb. From Women-Led Wednesday movements (Michele’s Granola) to initiatives supporting underserved entrepreneurs, we’re redefining success. Because giving back isn’t an afterthought—it’s a core business strategy.
My Why: Giving Beyond the Bottom Line
I’ve felt this in my own journey.
That’s why I’ve been passionate about funding female founders—because I know firsthand how hard it is to secure capital as a woman entrepreneur. It started at Wichita State University’s Center for Entrepreneurship, where I created The Women for Women’s Innovation Fund after receiving my own funding and grant from lululemon during the pandemic. That funding changed the game for me, and I knew I wanted to pay it forward to help other women who truly need support and guidance.
Kyle (my husband) and I also funded the Wichita State University’s Cummings Student Managed Investment Fund, giving students the opportunity to gain real-world investment experience—because future entrepreneurs and business leaders need the tools to thrive, not just survive.
Through my investments with Golden Seeds, I support female founders who are breaking barriers in industries that have traditionally shut us out. Because let’s be real—fundraising as a woman is still a battle. We get less than 2% of venture capital funding (yes, you read that right), and if we want to change that, we have to be part of the solution.
And with Armine + Ambrose, I’ve carried this ethos forward. It’s not just about jewelry—it’s about intention. This brand was created with the belief that every piece should carry meaning, just like every dollar spent should have purpose. That’s why we’re committed to giving back to initiatives that support future innovation, including being the main sponsor for Wichita State University’s Shocker New Venture Competition—because supporting the next wave of founders is where the real impact happens.
But Let’s Talk About Fancy Fundraisers…
Now, don’t get me wrong—I love a good charity auction. The gowns, the paddle-raising, the high-society giving… there’s something hilariously extravagant about spending thousands of dollars on a silent auction vacation package you’ll forget to book until it expires. And let’s not forget the mystery wine grab, where you drop $100 for a bottle that might be a vintage Bordeaux or might be from your local grocery store’s clearance bin. It’s all in good fun, and of course, these events raise a ton of money for great causes.
But my focus? Future innovation. Giving isn’t just about writing a check and drinking overpriced champagne—it’s about funding ideas, supporting real change, and creating opportunities that last beyond a gala dinner. Because when we invest in women, education, and entrepreneurship, we’re not just giving money away—we’re building something bigger.
The BFD Moment: How You Can Give Back
Giving back doesn’t have to mean writing six-figure checks. It can be small, intentional, and powerful. Here are a few ways you can start making an impact today:
Shop Women-Owned – Your dollars matter. Support businesses that reinvest in communities.
Mentor or Invest – If you have knowledge, share it. If you have capital, put it where it counts.
Build Philanthropy Into Your Business – Whether it’s a percentage of profits or a day of service, make giving part of your business model.
At the end of the day, success isn’t just about what we build—it’s about what we give. And if you’re building something with meaning, you’re already ahead of the game.
So, what’s the heart of your why? 🖤
Resources & Further Reading
If you’re interested in learning more about the impact of women in philanthropy and entrepreneurship, check out these resources:
Reflections on Women and Philanthropy – LGT Wealth Management
A deep dive into how women are driving philanthropic efforts and making a lasting impact through giving.
Philanthropic Giving is on the Rise—And Women Are Leading the Way – Genus Capital
Highlights how women are using their wealth to create meaningful change in communities worldwide.
Mindful Entrepreneurship & Giving Back – Wanderlust Journal
Explores how conscious business leaders integrate social responsibility into their business models.
Why Women-Led Wednesday Matters – Michele’s Granola
Discusses the importance of supporting women-owned businesses and the ripple effect of reinvesting in communities.
National Women’s Business Council 2023 Report
A comprehensive report on the state of women-owned businesses in the U.S., including trends in revenue, employment, and philanthropy.
Women & Business Philanthropy Report – Wells Fargo
Examines how women entrepreneurs are reshaping charitable giving and corporate philanthropy.
Want to be part of the change? Start small, give intentionally, and invest in businesses and causes that align with your values. Because success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about what you give.