In addition to general resources, specialized resources and programs continue to emerge including several new programs for women.  The Women and Minority Imagining Grant Program, run by CincyTech, provides up to $40,000 in grant funding for women and minorities to assist in costs for work needed to prove the business and/or technical case of an early stage business idea. To be eligible, the business must be technology-based, owned and operated by a woman or minority and involve a potentially high growth technology idea.

Another exciting development is the chance for women to act on their start-up dreams or take their companies to the next level through the new Women’s Entrepreneurship Institute (WEI) developed by Northern Kentucky University and the New York Times Knowledge Network.  Through the WEI, women will be able to get the business know-how they need and explore issues facing women entrepreneurs through online courses and Webcasts, get comprehensive feedback on projects and business plans, make networking connections and find mentoring.

And there is more to come. Several interested groups are discussing the idea of a Women’s Business Conference in fall 2008. The focus is on personal/professional development and creating networking opportunities.

All in all, Cincinnati is ready, willing and able to advance the entrepreneurial priorities of our region.