Power of the Purse Luncheon Raised $339,867
The annual Arkansas event secured funding to support regional economic security programs for women.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Women's Foundation of Arkansas raised $339,867 during its Power of the Purse Luncheon to support economic security programs. The event, which has been held annually since 1998, took place at the North Little Rock Event Center.
Why it matters
Operators interested in corporate social responsibility can monitor how established regional foundations aggregate private funding to scale economic initiatives. These funds are specifically directed toward expanding opportunities for women and girls throughout the state.
The event raised $339,867, marking another iteration of a series that began in 1998. The funds are earmarked for economic security programs operated by the foundation.
The players
Women's Foundation of Arkansas
A statewide organization focused on providing economic security opportunities for women and girls.
Mandy Macke
Recipient of the Woman of the Year in Philanthropy award.
Lottie Shackelford
Recipient of the Woman of the Year in Public Service award.
Marsha Martin
Recipient of the Woman of the Year in Business award.
The details
The program featured networking sessions, exhibitor booths, and video tributes recognizing honorees in business, public service, and philanthropy. Attendees focused on mentorship and resource development as central themes for the afternoon at the North Little Rock Event Center.
Timeline
1998: The foundation launched the annual event series.
October 1, 2026: The Power of the Purse Luncheon occurred.
Market Landscape
The luncheon continues a tradition established by the foundation in 1998 to drive capital toward specific demographic economic security goals. This event sits within a broader trend of regional organizations leveraging large-scale networking luncheons to secure annual operational funding.
Business owners looking to align with regional workforce development should monitor the foundation’s mentorship and economic security initiatives. These programs often indicate which skills and demographics are receiving the most organizational support in the state.
The takeaway
Large-scale industry networking events remain an effective mechanism for nonprofits to generate significant operational capital in a single afternoon. Owners should track the mentorship themes highlighted at such events to identify potential opportunities for community-based partnerships.
Further reading
For additional context on regional charitable initiatives, visit our Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ArkansasOnline.
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