StepUp is a mentoring program designed by Rhona Levine Ruben to assist women entrepreneurs in growing their business. Barb Orser, Associate Professor of the Telfer School of Business, believes that one of the forces that can lead Canada out of recession is the growth of women-owned firms, and that mentoring is an important tool for business success. Mentoring enables women to overcome their relative lack of experience, gain information and access to powerful networks, obtain candid feedback, and receive objective assessments of marketability.

The program consists of a series of six all-day workshops conducted by experienced business leaders and professionals, completed within a six-month timeframe. The workshops are interactive, and time is spent on crafting a growth strategy.

A peer-to-peer advisory group is part of the initiative and provides participants with a venue to share their business challenges and opportunities in a non-threatening, confidential environment. The sharing of information and building of networks are invaluable to the participants.

The mentoring component is a key element of the program. Mentors are successful business owners willing to share their business expertise with a participant. They facilitate the introduction of new business networks and coach participants on best practices. Through their mentors, participants gain the confidence to become more involved in the global marketplace.

Some participants have access to members of the Women Presidents' Organization (WPO), women leading multi-million dollar businesses who are willing to share their business acumen, experience and wisdom.

Participants have an opportunity to have their growth strategy critiqued by a consultant.

For the next StepUp program in your area, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .