Have you ever dreamed or even considered starting your own business? Do you know you want to be an entrepreneur but maybe haven’t found that killer idea or unique business proposition yet? If so, the ACTiVATE program may be for you and we are actively recruiting potential women entrepreneurs for the Class of 2008.

Don’t worry if you don’t have an idea for a business – that is part of what we help you with! We provide you with lists of technologies (patents and copyrights) from Maryland Universities and government labs which are available for licensing. Then, we take you through the licensing and commercialization process with the hopeful outcome that you will launch your own business at the end of the program (or before, as the case has been!).

I am going on my 4th year with the program and my 3rd as the Lead Instructor. I can honestly say I have never seen ANYTHING LIKE IT. First, it is taught and led by seasoned entrepreneurs who offer their practical experience with a no-holds-barred approach to sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly. You get the opportunity to learn from our mistakes and build on our successes. Second, this is a HANDS ON program, where we measure success by your success in starting and building a viable, sustainable business. Third, the cadre of women who have gone through ACTiVATE, many of whom have started their own business as a result of the program, provides a support and networking group that is unparalleled in their experience, connections and desire to help each other succeed.

Additionally, the program is financially supported by TEDCO and receives assistance from a community of active volunteer advisors in all areas of business and entrepreneurship (including potential investors!) who all want to see you get your business off the ground. Never before has such an ensemble of guidance and support been assembled for the purpose of seeing you achieve your dreams! The testimonials from past participants says it all!

ABOUT ACTiVATE
ACTiVATE is a year-long program being offered for a 4th year at UMBC in Baltimore, Maryland. We are currently recruiting seasoned (i.e. not right out of school) women with either a technical (IT, bio tech, engineering) background or strong business experience to interview for possible acceptance into our next class which starts in February 2008.

If you are interested, attend one of our upcoming open houses to learn more about the program or go to our website and send in your application!