The Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) is proud to announce the opening of applications for its 2024 Woman Entrepreneur (WE) Fellowship, a transformative yearlong program designed to bolster female business owners with essential resources, mentorship, and support. Presented by Fidelity Bank P.O.W.E.R., this initiative aims to provide a unique platform for women entrepreneurs to thrive. The deadline for applications is Monday, January 15, 2024.

“The WE Fellowship goes beyond providing financial support to small businesses. It aligns with JLNO’s mission to develop the potential of women by offering mentoring, training, and support,” emphasizes JLNO President, Ashley Cangelosi Lewellyn. Launched in 2016, the program underscores the unique capacity women possess for creative endeavors and perseverance, serving as an inspirational example for women and girls.

JLNO’s WE Fellowship Committee meticulously reviews each submission, selecting up to six finalists who will engage in one-on-one sessions with a growth consulting firm to craft a 10-minute pitch. A judging panel will then select the 2024 Fellow.

Diana Vasquez, Chair of the JLNO WE Fellowship Committee says, “In the past, our WE Fellows have gained knowledge, connections, and exposure through the pitch process. We know that women entrepreneurs are essential to our local economy and community. This program provides an opportunity to develop their potential, offering a platform to showcase products, talents, and skills.”

The 2024 Fellow, in addition to mentoring and support services from JLNO, will receive a $5,000 cash grant courtesy of Fidelity Bank P.O.W.E.R., access to meeting space at JLNO’s newly renovated Uptown headquarters, tuition to JLNO’s Get on Board nonprofit board training program, strategic business consulting services from Trepwise, a feature story in JLNO’s Lagniappe publication, and a one-year complimentary membership in the Junior League of New Orleans.

Tammy O’Shea, Chief Marketing Officer at Fidelity Bank, emphasizes the commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs, “Fidelity Bank believes in the power of diversity and inclusivity, and the WE Fellowship grant is a testament to our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs. By providing financial resources and support, we aim to foster innovation, growth, and success within the women-owned business community.”

To be eligible, women must have at least a 50 percent stake in an enterprise and have been in operation between one to five years, making less than $750,000. To learn more about the WE Fellowship program or to apply, visit jlno.org.