In Upstate New York, women are building businesses that solve the problems society forgot to fix. And Stella Foundation is the ecosystem making sure they have a fighting chance.

But here’s the truth: we can’t do this without community-backed support.

We don’t just run programs. We equip women to build businesses that:

Tackle medical bias and improve women's health
Create sustainable solutions for everyday needs
Build wealth in underserved communities
Hire locally and lead boldly

We’re supporting real women — moms, veterans, immigrants, and creatives — who are launching scalable, fundable, and world-changing companies. And we’re doing it in a region where access to capital and community is harder to come by.

In 2026, our Elevate Women’s Summit returns to Rochester, alongside our Fund Her Future Gala, local investor showcases, and monthly founder support events.

We are actively seeking local sponsors to help power this work.

Your support means:

Real money going into the hands of real women founders
Brand exposure at our premier regional events
A seat at the table as we build a stronger economic future in NY

Women’s organizations are closing every day. But we are still standing — and ready to do more.

The only question left:
Are you with us?

Stella Foundation Upstate NY Gala Auction

By Stella Foundation

Stella Foundation Upstate NY Gala Auction