Dear Friend,
As MWF strives to level the playing field for women entrepreneurs, we recognize that even the most successful entrepreneurs can be halted by deep-rooted (and often implicit) biases.
We’re always looking for ways to eliminate gender and racial bias in our ecosystem, so we recently developed a new, exciting approach to a pitch competition. Our 53 Voices Challenge asks women entrepreneurs to submit a 53-second voice recording of their business idea and a short 500-word concept paper for a chance to win up to $5,350. We believe by asking reviewers to simply listen to contestants during their application review, we will eliminate some biases from the process.
On August 2, the 53 Voices Challenge applications will officially open. No previous entrepreneurial or business experience is required, and we hope you will consider applying and spreading the word!
My Best,
Alexis Dishman
Chief Lending Officer
Michigan Women Forward