For Immediate Release MEDIA CONTACT
November, 15, 2016 Jacqueline Lara, 240-305-2133
jacqueline@marylandwbc.org
The Walmart Foundation Awards Rockville Economic Development, Inc.
$25,000 Grant to Support Maryland Women’s Business Center
Rockville, MD, November, 15, 2016–Today, the Walmart Foundation and the Maryland State Giving Advisory Council has awarded Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) a grant of $25,000 to support the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC).
“The Walmart Foundation is working around the world to empower women in our communities through job training, career advancement and educational programs,” said Erik Hingst, Director of Public Affairs & Government Relations for Walmart. “In Maryland, we are proud to support the work of the Maryland Women’s Business Center and expand their resources in order to engage more women, strengthen their role in our communities, and improve the lives of our neighbors.”
MWBC’s grant was made possible through the Walmart Foundation’s State Giving Program. Through this program, the Walmart Foundation supports organizations that create opportunities so people can live better. The Walmart Foundation State Giving Program strives to award grants that have a long-lasting, positive impact on communities across the U.S.
“We are thrilled to receive this support from The Walmart Foundation and to be a part of their mission to promote economic security through entrepreneurship,” said Laurie Boyer, Executive Director of Rockville Economic Development, Inc. “The MWBC will be able to build on its success and expand our programs for women business owners in this region.”
Since 2010, MWBC has helped over 5,000 women entrepreneurs start, sustain and grow women-owned enterprises. Workshops and trainings are now available in Spanish to meet the growing market of Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs. In the fall, MWBC will expand their offerings to include Hi-Tech Roundtables for women-owned businesses and an International Trade program.
“The MWBC is very excited about this continued partnership with The Walmart Foundation. It is through the dedication and commitment of our funding partners that we are able to provide the valuable services that support our entrepreneurs.” said Kiesha Haughton, Managing Director of Maryland Women’s Business Center.
Learn more about Maryland Women’s Business Center at www.marylandwbc.org
About Maryland Women’s Business Center
Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) was established in 2010 as a program of the nonprofit Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) to help people throughout the region start and build successful women-owned enterprises that are positioned for long-term growth. MWBC conducts specialized training, offers individual business counseling, and provides unique resources. Our special initiatives include a Childcare Business Development Program and StartRight! Women’s Business Plan Competition. www.marylandwbc.org Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram , LinkedIn, and Twitter.
About Rockville Economic Development, Inc.
Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a public-private partnership formed in 1997 by the City of Rockville, Maryland to strengthen and broaden the city’s economic base through business entrepreneurship, expansion, retention, and recruitment programs. REDI offers guidance and support to help businesses at all stages of growth launch, locate and expand in Rockville. For more information, contact 301-315-8096 or visit www.RockvilleREDI.org.
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