PNC Bank Seeks Women Business Owners Who Want to Boost Profitability for Business Advisory Program

PNC Bank has launched the ATHENAPowerLink® program in Baltimore, bringing valuable advisory services and resources to boost the achievement of local women business owners. PNC is seeking women business owners who are interested in being paired with a customized board of advisors for a year. The panel of advisors provides financial advice, business best practices, networking skills and technical assistance to help the business owner reach her business goals.

According to ATHENA International, participants achieve an average 88.5 percent increase in sales, a 37.6 percent increase in business income and 56.6 percent increase in personal income after one year with the program. “As part of PNC’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs, the introduction of ATHENAPowerLink® to Baltimore will link women to resources and advice that can make a measurable impact on their business and our local economy,” said Laura Gamble, PNC Bank regional president in Greater Maryland.

Women business owners in Greater Maryland are invited to apply for the program. Applications will be accepted through October 31, 2013. For additional information or to apply online, visit athenapowerlinkbaltimore.org.

To be considered for the ATHENAPowerLink® program, companies must:

o        Be owned at least 51 percent by a woman

o        Have been in operation for at least two years

o        Have a minimum of two full-time employees

o        Generate annual revenues of a least $500,000 if in manufacturing or retail, or $250,000 if a service business.

o        Have clearly defined company objectives/goals with explicit reasons for seeking assistance through the program.