Exciting news! Wacif has launched a new loan portal for a smoother, faster application experience. Learn more here.
Comprehensive Support for Women Entrepreneurs at the Capitol Region Women’s Business Center
The Capital Region Women’s Business Center offers a wide range of services tailored to women entrepreneurs, including:
- one-on-one counseling
- training
- networking
- workshops
- technical assistance
- and mentoring
Our programs cover essential business development topics such as:
- business startups
- financial management
- marketing
- procurement
As part of the SBA Women’s Business Center network, we are dedicated to helping Capital Region women entrepreneurs access the resources they need to succeed. Through the SBA’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership (OWBO), the 17 new WBCs – including 13 hosted by MSIs – will help diverse entrepreneurs pivot, grow, and navigate SBA resources they can use to ensure their businesses thrive.
Our Mission
Our mission at the Capitol Region Women’s Business Center is to empower and equip women entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and support needed to overcome the systemic challenges they face in starting and growing their businesses. By providing tailored assistance, mentorship, and a community of like-minded individuals, we aim to break down barriers, foster resilience, and cultivate a thriving ecosystem where women-led businesses can flourish.
In 2024, Wacif was entrusted with the SBA Women’s Business Center, a significant milestone that marked a deepened commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by women in business—ranging from securing funding to being taken seriously in male-dominated fields—SBA Women’s Business Center is dedicated to leveling the playing field. The Capitol Region Women’s Business Center at Wacif is a beacon of support, offering comprehensive resources, mentorship, and step-by-step guidance to help Capital Region women entrepreneurs navigate the entrepreneurial landscape and achieve their business goals.
THE REALITY
360 Start-Up Support
Access full 360 support services at any stage of your start up journey, from planning to execution.
One Stop Resource
We are your one-stop shop for everything from marketing support and financial advice to organizational planning.
Access To Capital
Looking for capital? As one of the few SBA Women's Business Centers, we offer unique options for accessing captial.
Inclusive Community
Community is a vital part of your entrepreneurial journey, and we're here to help you get connected every step of the way.
Step One: First Things First
Your business name is the key to making a great first impression. Establish the name of your business and verify it’s available for use. Click here to use this quick tool to check your business name.
* if you’d like to do a more extensive search, options are available through these sites. (Costs may apply)
Step Two: Next Let's Make It Official
Make your business official when you get Your EIN Number for free in 5 minutes! to start doing business, build business credit, and open a business bank account, bringing you closer to officially launching your business.
Step Three: Identify Your Type Of Business
Protect your business with the right legal structure. Get help you identifying your type of business and esstablishing your business entity whether you’re operating as an LLC., Sole Proprietorship, Corporation, or Partnership.
Step Four: Start Your Business plan
Bring your vision to life with this easy-to-use Business Plan Template to help you create a comprehensive plan quickly and efficiently.
On Demand
Our Impact
For more than 30 years, Wacif has been creating equity and opportunity in underserved communities by getting financial capital and business advice to low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs.
Created and retained thousands of jobs for local communities
Provided millions of dollars in flexible financing for local small businesses and development of affordable housing
Supported local entrepreneurs with thousands of hours of business counseling and technical assistance
Support of disadvantaged businesses in Wacif’s portfolio which are Woman or Minority-Owned
Powered by Wacif
Our specialized programs meet entrepreneurs where they are.