Driving women’s businesses toward success.
The road to new business financing can be winding, even unmarked. When that business is owned by a woman, the road is typically filled with even more roadblocks.
That’s why we’re hopping in the passenger’s seat: offering financial assistance, education, training and mentorship to ensure women’s businesses succeed.
To ensure the success of our clients’ businesses, we have also created a continuum of wraparound services including technical assistance, educational conferences, summits and workshops developed in partnership with colleges, universities and other organizations in the ecosystem to support all steps of entrepreneurship from ideation to launch to growth.
This is our Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative.
WomanUp & Pitch -Business Plan & Pitch Competition
Each spring, women submit their 2-page concept paper for a chance to pitch for cash prizes. The top 30 finalists are connected to a coach and mentor who provides expert advice as the women create viable business plans and prepare to take the stage to pitch their idea to a panel of business experts and an audience of entrepreneurs, small business owners, potential investors, and community leaders. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third places in two separate categories: Lifestyle and Growth. In addition, the audience votes for an “Audience Choice” winner. Watch the MWF website and social media channels for information on how to submit your concept paper in May. Finalists will be announced mid-summer to plan, prepare, and practice for competitions taking place this fall in Grand Rapids, Jackson, and Southeast Michigan.
WomanUp & Learn
Classes and conferences to help no matter what stage your businesses is in. See our bi-weekly WEI newsletter for upcoming offerings.
Whistleblower Policy
MWF takes adherence to our values and our mission very seriously. We encourage employees, donors and the public to report any serious concern about our work, our conduct and our adherence to rules and laws. Click here to view our Whistleblower Policy.