As Inforum Center for Leadership launches new tools for growth-driven women to unleash their entrepreneurial spirit, we have partnered with two best-in-class, globally recognized programs to accelerate Michigan-based entrepreneurs, provide local access to a global entrepreneurial ecosystem and increase exposure for Michigan based talent. This is the first time both programs have been brought to Michigan and the first time anyone thought to bring them together to create a continuum in entrepreneurial programming.
ACTiVATE is a year-long, educational curriculum that teaches mid-career women to find innovative ideas, validate and develop commercial viability and launch growth oriented businesses. It is ideal for early start-ups, a technology ready to commercialize or women who just have experience and passion and want to unleash their entrepreneurial spirit. Classes will begin January 2012.
Who is the target? Mid-career women with vision, business or technical skills and an innovative idea, early-stage technology based business or just the passion and drive to start a new venture.
Astia is a global community dedicated to the success of women-led, high-growth ventures at all stages of growth. Inforum has a budding partnership with Astia to encourage Michigan based entrepreneurs to engage mentors from around the world. It is also an opportunity for Michigan business leaders, successful entrepreneurs, industry experts and investors, to become mentors to entrepreneurs around the world.
Who is the target? Growth oriented entrepreneurs with at least one female co-founder or C-level executive AND Michigan based business leaders, industry experts, investors and serial entrepreneurs interested in advising and mentoring a global portfolio of entrepreneurs.
ICL is now recruiting for both programs. Astia’s next on-ramp event will be held Oct. 10-15 in Silicon Valley and ICL is actively recruiting Michigan women entrepreneurs to apply. ACTiVATE will begin local sessions in January 2012.
Inforum is planning an information and screening event Sept 22 & 23 at the University of Michigan-Dearborn College of Business. This would be a valuable event to attend for anyone interested in participating in either program.
If you know of anyone you feel might be a fit for either program, feel free to forward the information to them or have them contact Kapila Viges, executive director of entrepreneurial strategies [email protected] or visit inforummichigan.org.