The RISE Regional Innovation Summit for Entrepreneurs on Thursday, August 27, 2026 in Danville, VA will include networking opportunities and breakout sessions featuring amazing speakers to support entrepreneurs at each stage of business, from ideation to starting, growing, and scaling.

45 MINUTE WORKSHOP

TRACK: ACCESS TO CAPITAL

Description:

Workshop Presenter: Karen White, Virginia Small Business Financing Authority-VSBFA, Virginia Department of Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD), Regional Lending Manager

Prerequisites: None

Karen Totten White serves as the Regional Lending Manager for the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), assists businesses to access the capital they need to grow, create, and retain jobs. With a deep understanding of financial systems and a passion for economic development, Karen specializes in guiding borrowers through the lending process with clarity and confidence. Her prior role as Assistant Vice President and Managing Officer of a community bank further underscores her commitment to fostering financial inclusion and supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

In addition to her role at VSBFA, Dr. Karen is a small business consultant, and a published author, dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs through strategic financial planning and leadership development. A graduate of Regent University with a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership, Dr. Karen brings a unique blend of academic insight and real-world expertise to her vocation. She shares insights that offer actionable strategies and inspiration to fuel the next chapter of growth for entrepreneurs. Dr. Karen will bring her signature energy and expertise to equip attendees to unlock capital with confidence.