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Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship

Each year, 15-20 women entrepreneurs will be selected for a nine-month program designed to support their business growth through workshops, peer-to-peer problem-solving, network building, and mentorship with other experienced entrepreneurs. 

The Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship is available to eligible women business owners as part of the SBAM Foundation’s SBSH Grant Program. Once accepted into this special cohort, all programming will be offered at no cost through the end of June 2026.

This isn’t just another business program – it’s a transformative journey for exceptional leaders like you.

Take the First Step

Inside the Fellowship

Here’s how to be considered for the WEF

  1. Complete the Small Business Hub Grant Application
  2. Expect a personal outreach from our dedicated Program Director, Kim Bode. She’ll discuss your interest in the fellowship and answer any questions you may have.
  3. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to take our brief survey. Your insights will help shape this groundbreaking program.
  4. Finally, you’ll be asked to sign a commitment pledge, demonstrating your readiness to fully engage in this transformative experience.

This personalized application process ensures we select a cohort of Michigan’s most driven and visionary women entrepreneurs. We’re excited to learn more about you and your business.

Get Started

Here’s what participants can expect:

  • Mentorship from Michigan’s top business leaders
  • A tailored curriculum addressing the unique challenges of scaling women-owned businesses
  • Exclusive networking with industry innovators and investors
  • Access to high-level resources to fuel your growth
Frequently Asked Questions

Mentorship Opportunities

The Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship is actively seeking mentors for our programming. Please review the eligibility criteria and complete the form if you’re interested in being considered.

Mentorship Application
Women gather around a laptop

Empowering Business Excellence Through Education

Entrepreneurs play a vital role in driving economic growth, yet many face challenges in accessing the resources essential for business expansion. Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip business owners with critical tools and knowledge across all facets of enterprise management. By focusing on key areas such as operational efficiency, financial acumen, and strategic planning, we aim to foster sustainable growth and success for established businesses looking to scale. 

We look for entrepreneurs who embody the following qualities: 

  1. Growth Mindset: Openness to learning, adapting, and embracing new ideas. Viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.
  2. Collaborative Spirit: Eagerness to connect with and learn from other entrepreneurs. Willingness to share experiences and give/receive feedback.
  3. Self-Motivation: Proactivity in applying learnings and following up on opportunities without excessive external pressure.
  4. Resilience and Persistence: Ability to overcome setbacks and maintain focus on long-term goals.
  5. Intellectual Curiosity: Genuine interest in expanding knowledge across various aspects of business management and leadership.

Funding provided by the Small Business Support Hub Grant Program from the SBAM Foundation in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0127 awarded to the State of Michigan by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.