W.E. Build gave me the funding I needed to develop my MVP. They connected me with an incredible mentor who not only guided me but also helped me secure my first clients through their network.
I remember the first time I was introduced to Build in Tulsa. I logged into my interview with my game face on—you know the one—the “I-have-everything-figured-out-and-I’m-here-to-conquer-the-world” look. As a founder, I’ve worn it countless times. But this time, it wasn’t needed. I was met with a warmth and care I had never encountered in the startup space. I quickly realized that this organization wasn’t just about supporting women founders; it was about nurturing women as whole human beings.
My journey began at Build in Tulsa’s Female Founders Pitch Night. That experience made applying for W.E. Build feel natural and exciting. It wasn’t that I was certain of acceptance, but I knew they truly valued me as a person. Regardless of the outcome, I felt confident I could always turn to them for support.
Once accepted, Build in Tulsa went above and beyond to foster community among founders, even before we met in person. They created virtual opportunities for us to connect, clearly communicated expectations, and provided a detailed schedule to help us plan our lives during the program. That level of communication was crucial, especially when preparing to be away from my family for an extended period.
The programming itself was intense—in the best way possible. I was given the space to admit my fears and the tools to confront the most daunting aspects of my business. From financial modeling and revenue growth to personal branding and marketing, I walked away with a business toolkit that is truly priceless. Four months post-program, I still find myself referring to the work we did in those sessions to help grow my business.
W.E. Build gave me the funding I needed to develop my MVP (minimally viable product). They connected me with an incredible mentor who not only guided me but also helped me secure my first clients through their network. With those two critical pieces in place, I was able to launch my business in Tulsa, Oklahoma in November 2024. Today, I’m working on expanding my reach with the help of connections I made during my time in W.E. Build.
But W.E. Build did more than just equip me with business tools and funding—it transformed me as a leader. It pushed me to become a better, stronger founder while helping me find my voice. I walked into this experience with my game face on, ready to prove myself. But I walked out feeling seen, supported, and valued for more than just my elevator pitch.
That’s the magic of Build in Tulsa and W.E. Build. It’s not just about building businesses; it’s about building people. And for that, I am profoundly grateful.
Ashley Yearby was part of the W.E. Build Cohort 2 (2024) and is the founder of STB Technologies. With a background in event management, hospitality, and strategic partnerships, Ashley applies her expertise in logistics to revolutionize the storage industry. Her company, STB Technologies, developed Secure The Bag, a streamlined, user-friendly solution designed to simplify storage and security for busy professionals and event-goers.
W.E. Build is a three-month accelerator designed to support women entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and business resources. Participants receive:
The program runs from August 5 to November 13, 2025, in Tulsa, OK. Applications are open until March 21, 2025. Apply now.