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Amplifying Entrepreneurs with the Support They Need to Succeed & Thrive

ATHENA PowerLink of LANSING

ATHENA PowerLink is a mentoring program dedicated to elevating women entrepreneurs. If you’re looking to grow your business, scale for the future, improve processes and systems and/or increase your business acumen, then consider applying for this program.

Imagine having a personal board of advisors, each bringing their unique expertise and insights to help you navigate the challenges of scaling your business. That's what ATHENA PowerLink offers.

Established in 1999, ATHENA PowerLink of Lansing’s mission is to assist women entrepreneurs achieve greater success with access to a panel of business advisors and mentors. This is an affiliate program of ATHENA International, an organization dedicated to creating leadership opportunities for women, and the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.

ATHENA PowerLink — Let’s Grow Together!

 

Applications open December 5. If you're a woman entrepreneur ready to elevate your business, or know someone who is, we invite you to apply or share this opportunity. Our advisory panel is comprised of successful entrepreneurs and business executives in the Lansing area who will provide a year of free business consultations tailored to your unique needs at no cost — valued at over $25,000.

In addition to impressive business growth, there are invaluable benefits:

  • Community Impact: Thriving businesses boost the local economy.
  • Empowered Owners: Women business owners gain insights to receive expert advice, grow profitability, and build invaluable networks.
  • Advisory Panel Benefits: Our advisors enjoy positive mentoring experiences and connect with other professionals.

 

 

ATHENA Powerlink Graphic

Empowered Voices: Success Stories from Our Recipients

 

Since 2006, nearly twenty remarkable individuals have been honored with the ATHENA PowerLink Award by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. These inspiring recipients are celebrated at our annual ATHENA Award luncheon.

Justine Bell
Lorin Cumberbatch

THE ATHENA PowerLink Recipients

J.Taylor APL (1)

Jacqueline Taylor, owner of Little Dreamers Daycare, has been named the 2025 ATHENA PowerLink Recipient. Taylor is a passionate advocate for early childhood development and the proud founder of Little Dreamers Daycare Center. With a deep love for nurturing young learners, she creates a warm and enriching environment where children can thrive. 

ML3_4232 Justine Bell (2)


Justine Bell, owner of BeneGuides, a company dedicated to matching people with the perfect health insurance plan for them. Bell has spent her career dedicated to helping people was named the recipient of the 2024 ATHENA PowerLink (APRL) award.

THE ATHENA PowerLink GOVERNING BODY

The ATHENA PowerLink Governing Body is a dedicated team of volunteer entrepreneurs and executives from the business community. Our members bring expertise in various fields, including banking, accounting, finance, law, human resources, and marketing. They also represent organizations that support entrepreneurs throughout the Greater Lansing Area.

APL Governing Body

Eligibility & What to Expect

Running a business is demanding, but you don't have to do it alone. ATHENA PowerLink® Lansing is here to be your catalyst for success. For an entire year, our expert advisory panel will offer their support and guidance at no cost to you.

The ATHENA PowerLink Governing Body reviews all applications received and selects entrepreneurs based on their potential to effectively leverage an advisory panel for company growth.

***Note: all information provided to ATHENA PowerLink® Lansing is strictly confidential. For any questions or concerns, please contact athenawin@lansingchamber.org

ATHENA PowerLink Important Dates

  • ATHENA PowerLink Nomination and Application Windows Nomination Window Opens Thursday, December 5, 2024
  • Nomination Window Closes Friday, February 7, 2025
  • Full Application Window Opens Friday, March 7, 2025
  • Full Application Window Closes Friday, April 11, 2025
  • ATHENA PowerLink Governing Body Interview Dates In Person Interviews - Friday, May 30, 2025
  • On-Site Recipient Visits - Friday, June 27, 2025
  • 2026 Recipient selected Friday, July 25, 2025Â