Every successful business begins with a vision, but turning that vision into reality often requires access to capital, strategic partnerships, and the confidence to pursue growth opportunities. Join us for an engaging panel discussion on navigating the funding landscape and securing the resources needed to start, sustain, and scale a business.

Whether attendees are launching a new venture, seeking growth capital, preparing for expansion, or exploring alternative funding options, this conversation will provide practical guidance and actionable strategies to help them move forward with confidence.

Discussion Topics

• Traditional and non-traditional funding options
• Business loans, grants, and lines of credit
• Preparing for lender and investor conversations
• Building financial readiness and business credibility
• Accessing capital as a woman entrepreneur
• Common funding challenges and how to overcome them
• Leveraging relationships and networks for growth

Who Should Attend

• Aspiring entrepreneurs
• Startup founders
• Small business owners
• Women-owned businesses seeking growth opportunities
• Professionals interested in entrepreneurship and economic empowerment

Our Panelists

Marcella Butler

Marcella Butler joined the Brennan, Dill, & Associates team in 2025. Her commitment to the wealth management industry springs from personally observing the consequences of failure to have a robust financial plan during market turbulence and unforeseen life events. Marcella’s previous experience includes more than 20 years in financial services and financial advisory as well as senior executive roles in Finance, HR, Corporate Development, and M&A. Marcella was named a Morehead Scholar at UNC-Chapel Hill where she graduated Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa in Geography and Economics. She earned a Master of Public Policy with honors from the JFK School of Government at Harvard. Marcella is a native Texan and resident of Lexington, Kentucky since 2020. Recognitions Named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2026 list.

Wende Cosby

Wende Cosby serves as Vice President & Business Banking Officer at Republic Bank, a role she has held for nearly ten years. She focuses primarily on meeting the lending and depository needs of commercial clients. In her position, Wende advocates for the Bank while also being empowered to champion the financial needs of her business clients. With nearly 25 years of banking experience, Wende has supported hundreds of individuals and businesses throughout the Louisville Metro area. Her extensive background has equipped her with the expertise to help clients achieve their financial goals, leading to long‑standing relationships and a portfolio that continues to grow through referrals. She actively partners with key centers of influence across the community to expand her reach and support more clients in both their business and personal financial journeys. Wende is a graduate of Sullivan University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance, as well as an Associate Degree in Management. She graduated at the top of her class, earning Summa Cum Laude honors and placement on the Dean’s List.

Jess Murphy

Jessica Murphy is a Commercial Real Estate Banking Portfolio Banker based in Louisville, Kentucky, where she partners with owners, developers, and investors to deliver relationship‑driven financing solutions across the CRE lifecycle. She brings a strong understanding of market dynamics and a collaborative approach to serving clients and the broader commercial real estate community. Jess currently serves as President‑Elect and Chapter Champion for CREW Louisville and is an active member of the ABA Commercial Real Estate Committee, the University of Louisville Family Business Center Professional Advisors Roundtable, and NAWIC. She is also deeply committed to service, with more than seven years of involvement with Eastern Area Community Ministries and current service on the March of Dimes REACH Awards Sponsorship Committee. Outside of work, Jess enjoys being outdoors—whether she’s watching her boys play sports, golfing, gardening, or exploring Louisville’s many beautiful hiking trails. Strong relationships lead to smarter decisions, better outcomes, and projects that stand the test of time.