Westminster’s Institute for New Enterprise invites media to attend a Banking on Women^TM alumni event on Friday, March 23, 2012 from 6-9 p.m. at Vitalize Community Studio located at 2154 South Highland Drive in Salt Lake City.

Banking on Women helps female entrepreneurs jump-start their own businesses by providing specialized training, mentorship and access to a microenterprise loan. The 15-week intensive course is free to applicants. The alumni event is a chance for current students to meet and network with Banking on Women alumni who have launched their own businesses.

Current student, Monica Faux-Kota co-owns Vitalize Community Studio where women from the following companies will share their Banking on Women success stories: Cucina Vanina, Cheesebread Mania, Tree Hugger Granola, Purse Dreams, Mama Africa, Wasatch Front Farmers Market, GF Squared, Casual Cuisine Catering, Ascot Royale Chocolates, Instant Karma, Beehive Soap and Body Care, Chocolate Divine, Fire and Slice Pizza, Vitalize Community Studio, Cottonwood ChemDry, Makiko’s Daycare, All About Bounce, Marcy Law Offices, Camera Coats, Trail Talk, Inspector 33, Nkoyo Bridal, Leesa Myers—Affirmative Hypnosis.

Banking on Women is a partnership between GE Capital Financial, GE Money Bank, The Utah Microenterprise Loan Fund and Westminster College. The program was launched in Utah in 2009. By investing in women entrepreneurs, Banking on Women supports job creation, retention and economic development in Salt Lake City.

Media interested in attending the event can contact Danielle Lower at dplower1@gmail.com.

WHAT:           Banking on Women^TM Alumni Networking Event

WHERE:        Vitalize Community Studio

2154 South Highland Drive

Salt Lake City, UT

WHEN:           March 23, 2012

                        6-9 p.m.