Connecting, inspiring, and empowering women.

The importance of chamber membership

Greater Fort Wayne Inc., serving as the chamber of commerce and economic development group for Fort Wayne and Allen County, works to develop a nationally recognized economy. Our belief is that success for our community benefits everyone. Because of this, membership in the Women’s Network requires a membership in the chamber of commerce.

Here’s how that affects Women’s Network membership dues:

All Women’s Network members

To join the GFW Inc. Women’s Network, there is an annual membership fee of $50 per person. This fee contributes to the administrative costs of the Women’s Network program. If your employer or company is already an investor in GFW Inc., this annual fee is the only requirement for your membership!

My company isn’t a GFW Inc. investor. Can I join the network?

Women’s Network events are open to all. However, to be a member of the Women’s Network program, you (or your employer) must also be a member of GFW Inc. Our team is happy to walk you through the benefits of chamber membership.

To get started on becoming a GFW Inc. member, complete the online member application. If you’d like more details before signing up, please call our office at 260-420-6945 or email Kimi Wilder at kwilder@gfwinc.com.

I know someone who wants to join, but the membership fee is a barrier. Is there any financial assistance available?

Thanks to the generosity of our community and investors, we can provide Women’s Network memberships to those who need financial help. This support aims to eliminate barriers, fostering greater diversity and inclusion. If you’re interested in sponsoring someone’s membership, please reach out to Meghan Short at mshort@gfwinc.com.

Open to emerging and current leaders, the Women’s Network hosts connection events six times per year. Potential topics include leadership development, philanthropic service, diversity inclusion, community advocacy, and more.

2024 event dates

• Jan. 24 – Networking Luncheon: “Practicing the Pause” – 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• March 6 – Networking Luncheon: “Uncharted Territories: Navigating Success in a Male-Dominated Profession” – 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• May 8 – Champions of Change Awards – 5-8 p.m.
• Aug. 21 – Networking Luncheon: “Rest That Rejuvenates: Essential Practices to Be Your Best” – 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Oct. 16 – “Better Together” Conference – 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Nov. 13 – Networking Social – 5-7 p.m.

Event pricing

• Varies per event; discount provided to enrolled Women’s Network members

We seek passionate, committed, and diverse candidates to fill 4-6 open seats on the committee by September 2024. As a member of the Women’s Network Active Council (WNAC), you will have the opportunity to:

• Influence and shape initiatives that support the professional and personal growth of women and our allies in Fort Wayne/Allen County.
• Collaborate with a dynamic team dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
• Develop and implement events that address the unique challenges and opportunities women face in the workplace.
• Strengthen your public speaking skills while building authentic relationships with like-minded leaders.
• …and so much more!

Further details regarding WNAC’s terms of service and expectations are outlined in the application.

To learn more and apply, please complete the Women’s Network Active Council Application by August 15, 2024. Application reviews and decisions will be made in September, with WNAC Orientation to follow in October and your first meeting in November.