The Maryland Women’s Business Center’s Founders Rising program was recently spotlighted on WUSA9, highlighting how the initiative is helping displaced federal workers turn career uncertainty into entrepreneurial opportunity. 

The segment featured MWBC Managing Director Karen Sippel and Founders Rising graduate Dr. Stefany Holguin, who launched her healthcare innovation consulting firm, Salt Perspectives, just weeks after completing the program.

Screenshot of WUSA9 article with headline "Federal layoffs in Maryland spark new entrepreneurship program to support displaced workers"
Digital article as seen on WUSA9’s website (accessed March 12, 2026)

Karen Sippel explained the program’s mission, noting that Maryland was hit hard by federal workforce reductions, with nearly 25,000 federal jobs impacted by cuts in 2025. Founders Rising was designed to meet this moment—providing an 8-week intensive that helps participants develop viable business concepts, navigate licensing requirements, and prepare to launch.

View the WUSA9 segment: Maryland Women’s Business Council [sic] creating opportunities