Celebrating Metro New York’s Women in Small Business

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Celebrating Metro New York’s Women in Small Business

As part of TD Bank’s continuing support of women-owned businesses, the TD Metro New York team hosted two recent events for these enterprises to celebrate their importance to the economic development of their communities.

“Success Through Synergy” — an evening of inspiration, connection, and sharing resources

The first one, “Success Through Synergy,” was held in the 20th floor meeting space of TD Bank’s flagship One Vanderbilt Center store in Midtown Manhattan. It brought together dozens of women entrepreneurs, business leaders, and TD customers for an evening of inspiration, connection, and sharing experiences.

Regional Community Manager Ingrid Gomez and Vice President and Community Business Development Officer Marcus Gonzales led the event to bring our customers together. After emphasizing TD Bank’s commitment to advancing women-owned businesses, they introduced Sherri Lane, Assistant Commissioner of Capital Access and Business Programs at the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS).

She highlighted the importance of equitable access to capital and shared insights into SBS WEnyc program, which she oversees. It offers women entrepreneurs access to funding, tools, and resources critical for success. Her address resonated with attendees, underscoring the unique challenges women face and the importance of tailored financial programs to address their specific needs.

Jo Jagadish, Head of Digital Banking and Contact Centers at TD Bank

From entrepreneur to bank executive, one woman’s story

Jo Jagadish also provided insights about the impacts of products and digitization have on business development. Jo is our Head of Digital Banking and Contact Centers, but she spent time talking about the experiences as a micro business owner that brought her the context for building for our customers.

She drew from her own entrepreneurial days before joining the corporate world — a clear connection with the audience. She shared several personal examples of her many challenges as a woman business owner. Her story reminded everyone that each woman’s entrepreneurial journey is unique and deserves support.

Following Jo’s remarks, Donna Cleary, TD Bank, AMCB Middle Market Team Lead for Metro NY, offered insights into the concerns and opportunities facing women business owners in small and mid-sized companies. She spoke to the unique challenges of women juggling business ownership with family duties.

From left to right: Beatriz Pallares, Tom Pretty, Rachel Kellner, and Veronika Sikorski

Attendees also enjoyed a panel discussion featuring Rachel Kellner, CEO of Aigner Chocolates, Veronika Sikorski, CEO of ELM Suspension Systems, and Tom Pretty, TD Head of Small Business Administration (SBA) Lending. Moderated by Beatriz Pallares, a TD Private Client Relationship Manager, the panelists engaged in a lively conversation and gained insights on a range of topics. For example, they learned how to scale a business efficiently and how to overcome imposter syndrome.

Panelists shared candid stories of their personal struggles and successes, inspiring attendees with actionable insights. For example, Ingrid recounts the story of one panelist, a TD Bank customer who shared her experience in seeking out financial advice during the global pandemic.

“Her business finances were in distress, so she worked closely with her TD Bank relationship manager who was able to provide her with the financial solutions she needed,” Ingrid said. “We also connected her with partners who assisted in financing the buy-out her existing business partners.”

Making connections, social and business

The evening concluded with networking opportunities, allowing guests to connect with each other and explore resources from local Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) such as the Harlem Entrepreneurial Fund and Grameen America.

A highlight for many was the chance to update their professional headshots, courtesy of TD Bank. Refreshments included American and Latin-style cuisine, plus chocolates from Aigner Chocolates, a women-owned business highlighted during the event. Attendees left feeling inspired, connected, and equipped with new insights to drive their businesses forward.

“She Works Hard for Her Money” — a Sunday afternoon of wellness, business, and sisterhood

The second event, “She Works Hard for Her Money,” was held on a Sunday afternoon in Harlem, hosted by the New York Urban League with TD Bank as one of its sponsors. It brought nearly 200 women small business owners together for a day of self-care, networking, and empowerment.

TD Bank volunteers helped to manage the day’s events, directing attendees to activities, and ensuring everyone felt welcomed and supported. Throughout the afternoon, these business owners took part in diverse sessions, from fitness workshops to business etiquette classes.

One of the most popular sessions was “A Woman’s Worth,” presented by Eunice Garcia, a Financial Services Market Manager for TD Wealth. She offered financial management strategies tailored for women entrepreneurs wanting to improve their personal finances to achieve their financial goals.

TD, a long-time supporter of women entrepreneurs

From hosting over 120 Women in Leadership events to donating more than $1 million annually to women-focused initiatives, TD Bank is committed to empowering women in business and contributing to their success.

Both Metro New York events reflected TD Bank’s belief that for women to succeed in business, a holistic approach is best — one that combines financial empowerment with personal well-being. This combination requires not just financial resources and knowledge but also a strong sense of community, connection, and confidence in themselves and their abilities.

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