15-week entrepreneurship program helps Utah women build stronger businesses through education, mentorship, community, and access to resources
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Utah Microloan Fund is now accepting applications for the Spring 2027 cohort of Banking on Women™, a 15-week entrepreneurship program designed to help Utah women start, strengthen, and grow their businesses.
Banking on Women combines weekly business education with mentorship, peer support, and connections to Utah’s small business community. Participants develop skills in areas including business planning, financial management, marketing, branding, pitching, and long-term business growth.
The Spring 2027 program will include two cohort options:
• An in-person Salt Lake City cohort beginning January 19th
• A virtual cohort for women in rural Utah beginning January 20th
The curriculum is developed and taught in partnership with Westminster University. Participation is offered through a scholarship funded by Synchrony, and participants who complete the program receive a $300 mini-grant funded by Synchrony to help support their business.
For past participants, the experience often extends well beyond the classroom.
“Banking on Women was an incredible experience that strengthened my confidence as an entrepreneur, expanded my knowledge, and connected me with a supportive community of female entrepreneurs. Beyond the classroom, I built meaningful friendships, found encouragement and support, and discovered opportunities for collaboration. I’m truly grateful for the journey and excited to keep learning, growing, and collaborating!” said Banking on Women graduate Georgeth Edwards.
Since 2010, Banking on Women has helped women entrepreneurs across Utah gain the knowledge, confidence, relationships, and resources needed to move their businesses forward. The program welcomes women at different stages of entrepreneurship, including those developing a new business idea as well as owners working to grow an existing business.
Prospective applicants who would like to learn more before applying are invited to attend a virtual Banking on Women Information Session on October 6th. Attendees will learn more about the 15-week program, what to expect as a participant, cohort options, the application process, and have an opportunity to ask questions.
Applications for the Spring 2027 cohort are due October 30th.
To learn more about Banking on Women, register for the information session, or apply for the Spring 2027 cohort, visit: www.utahmicroloanfund.org/bankingonwomen
About the Utah Microloan Fund
The Utah Microloan Fund is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution serving entrepreneurs throughout Utah. UMLF provides microloans and business education to entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional funding sources, helping Utah small business owners access the capital, knowledge, and resources they need to start and grow successful businesses.
