All of the WomenVenture frequently asked questions are listed below. To organize the questions by category, click on one of the items in the menu on the right.

Do you serve men?
Yes, about 11% of our clients are men. WomenVenture does not discriminate by gender.

How can you help in my career change?
We have assessment tests (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory), classes (Career & Life Planning for Women, and Finding Work That Works), one-to-one counseling, coaching and The Best Place To Start orientation. We have helped literally thousands of individuals find a new career or better manage their current career.

How is coaching different than career consulting?
Coaching is a specialized form of consulting, and coaches have received extensive training in coaching techniques. Coaching is an ongoing, scheduled relationship between client and coach, usually occurring on a weekly basis. It allows for a broad scope approach, which focuses on understanding a client's values, passions and goals. Giving advice is not the main focus like in consulting. It allows for increased accountability. Through coaching a client is able to establish a foundation from which their life decisions will be based and motivation will be obtained. Life coaching requires a three-month commitment.

Do you ever offer your career services to outside organizations?
Yes, we do, through our customized training services division. These services help employees become more motivated, productive, better career managers and ultimately contribute more towards the organizations success.

Do you offer classes online?
Not at this time.

Can you get me a job?
No, we cannot actually get the job for you. However we can help you learn the process to get a job and effectively manage your career. At the core of this process is a self-assessment. The principle of the self-assessment is that you really need to understand who you are, what you have to offer, what makes you happy and your purpose - before you find the job that is for you.

How long does it take to get a loan?
Once you have had one of our Business Consultants review all your documentation and everything is ready it could be from 6 to 8 weeks depending on the amount of the loan.

Do you write Business Plans?
No, but you can work one-on-one with a business consultant who will guide you in the process of drafting your plan. You can also attend our class, "The Business Plan" or purchase the book, "The Business of Small Business."

Do you have grants?
No, at this time we do not offer grants. Talk to your local library reference desk to help you research grant programs or do an Internet search with the keyword "grants." You can also contact your local Neighborhood Development Center or Chamber of Commerce.

Do you have business loans?
WomenVenture is a microlender that provides financing to qualified new and existing businesses. WomenVenture loans range from $500 to $35,000, and we also partner with a variety of lending institutions on larger projects. If you're interested in applying for a loan, we recommend that you attend our free workshop called Finance Your Business. If the dates don't fit your schedule, you may book an appointment with a business consultant by calling 651-646-3808 or download the loan application now.

What do I need to get a loan?
A solid Business Plan with two years Cash Flow Projections. WomenVenture can help you learn how to create cash flow projects with our class, Cash Flow Lab . Also, our Planning to Succeed series includes a class called, The Business Plan, which is an excellent way to become skilled at creating your own business plan. We also have a book called The Business Of Small Business with a time proven track to facilitate writing a business plan.

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