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SALT LAKE CITY — Women who want to launch their own business have an option in the Banking on Women program offered in partnership with Westminster College and GE Capital.
"I think my favorite part has been just learning from other women in class," said Kathleen Papi-Baker, a small business owner who participated in the 15 week class.
Instructor Danielle Lower covers every aspect of running a successful business, focusing on issues such as marketing, finance, management and special emphasis on cash flow projections.
"They leave our program feeling fully supported with the tools they need to either start the business that they would like to start or grow their business in a way that's successful," said Lower.
"All of the knowledge we've gained, it's like a mini-MBA," said Lisa Wise, a participant.
A mini-MBA that is free to those women who are selected to attend the class.
Each woman is also paired with a mentor to help guide her through the launch of the business.
"Having a sounding board as we go along in this process has been wonderful," said Linda Hamrick, who is hoping to start a portable pet care business.
Another perk to the program: after completion, women have access to business loans up to $25,000 through the Utah Microenterprise Loan Fund.
"This program has been amazingly effective for us and we get to know these folks really well, so it's pretty easy to give them a loan at the end," said Kathy Ricci, the executive director of UMLF.
