Dear WEALF Family,

The first half of 2025 has tested the resilience of many, but if there’s one thing we know, it’s that WEALF women and their mentors are not easily discouraged.

In response to a challenging economic climate and the downturn affecting many small businesses, we made the tough decision to pause new loan applications earlier this year. During that time, interest in our program continued to grow. Over 35 women signed up to be notified when we reopened, and requests for mentoring surged, underscoring what we’ve always known. While access to capital through our loan program is essential, the heart of our work lies in the relationships and guidance our mentors provide.

We continue to attract talented mentors. This year, we welcome Dr. Iris Billy a serial entrepreneur with a passion for education. Her experience as an Assistant Professor at Medgar Evers College, CUNY, a business owner, and consultant brings valuable skills to our team.

As we enter the second half of 2025, the economic outlook for many women remains bleak, but our mission remains strong. That’s why we’re reopening applications and preparing to welcome a new group of women entrepreneurs before year’s end. With your continued support, we know they’ll thrive.

Despite the environment, true to form, WEALF women are boldly moving forward and racking up recognition and accomplishment. From Rachel Simon’s new book launch to Mia Santandrea’s transformative new business partnership, and Jessica Spaulding’s recognition at SCORE’s Small Business Conference, WEALF women and their businesses are growing and being seen and heard.

At the same time, WEALF passed a major milestone: over $1 million in loans disbursed. This spring, we welcomed two new participants—Martina Surrency of D&S Visions Improvement LLC and Lisa Mirabile of The Patient Palette. And I was also deeply honored to be included on Crain’s New York Business 2025 list of Notable Leaders in Philanthropy—recognition that reflects the impact of WEALF’s community and celebrates the success of WEALF’s model

Together, we’re proving that women’s dreams are valid, powerful, and worthy of investment—regardless of age, background, zip code, or country of origin. 

Join Us for a Landmark Celebration

WEALF will mark its 10th anniversary with a powerful photography exhibition:
Making It: Portraits of Women Entrepreneurs and their WEALF Mentors photographed by Claire Holt. It’s a celebration of transformation, community, and what’s possible when women are supported. You will be hearing more about this shortly.

Here’s how you can help us make it a success:

Let’s come together to celebrate 10 years of economic justice, entrepreneurship, and community-based solutions that work. We can’t wait to see you there.

Sincerely,
Vicki Weiner
Founder, WEALF

D&S Visions Home Improvement LLC offers affordable home renovations for residential homeowners, specializing in remodeling, repairs, and renovations. The company focuses on working with low-to-moderate income families, seniors, and minority communities. This summer, they will launch their new Healthy Homes Program, offering education, free assessments, and minor repairs to improve living conditions. Visit the D&S Visions Home Improvement website to view their full menu of services and see their work.

Crain’s list recognizes individuals in various roles "who are toiling for the public good, alleviating youth homelessness, servicing families battling illness, supporting the arts and more.”
Vicki Weiner  “Scope of work: At Women’s Enterprise Action Loan Fund, which provides no- and low-interest small loans and one-on-one mentoring for eligible entrepreneurial women, Vicki Weiner is developing a unique model of mentoring, low-cost funding, and community-building. She organizes education and networking opportunities and manages more than 30 volunteer mentors.”