ATHENA PowerLink®

ATHENA PowerLink®, a business mentoring program designed to increase the growth and profitability of women-owned businesses. The program is simple -- the selected business owner is “linked” with a powerful volunteer Advisory Panel specifically selected to assist her in addressing her growth challenges. The program is also highly effective – in the 20+ other communities that have established programs, participants reported, on average, an 88% increase in sales, a 38% increase in net income and a 57% increase in personal income. Ninety three percent of participants reported that they made significant changes as a result of the program.

ATHENA PowerLink® is open to any woman whose business:

• Is at least 51% owned and actively managed by a woman.
• Has been in business for a minimum of two years.
• Has a minimum of two full-time employees (including the owner).
• Has annual revenues of at least $250,000 for retail or manufacturing businesses, or at least $100,000 for service businesses.
• Has clearly defined company objectives/goals with explicit reasons for seeking ATHENA PowerLink®'s assistance in meeting those objectives/goals.

The Washtenaw ATHENA PowerLink® program is co-chaired by Kasee Feit, Assistant Vice President at National City and Charlie Penner, Regional Director for the MI-SBTDC. Local supporting organizations include Washtenaw Community College, the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ypsilanti Area Chamber of Commerce and Women Business Owners of Southeastern Michigan, among others. Applications may be downloaded. For more information, please call Charlie Penner or Melinda Beattie at 734-547-9170.

Sharon McRill was the recipient for 2008. Her web site is: www.bettybrigade.com.