The GIRLS'BIZ program...

• Empowers middle school girls to develop and run their own businesses
• Enhances the girls' self esteem
• Provides opportunities for the girls to interact with women business owners and adult role models
• Introduces the girls to the business concepts involved in product development, marketing, goal setting, financing, writing and presenting a business plan
• Introduces the girls to the power of philanthropy
• Fosters fun and friendship!

NAWBO - Greater Madison GIRLS'BIZ is a community program which empowers middle school girls to start and run their own businesses and spend their profits on a group trip and a contribution to charity. WWE developed the program in 1995-1996 and our community partner is the Girl Scouts of Badgerland Council. The program meets on Tuesday evenings from 6:30- 8:00 PM at the Girl Scout Office, 2710 Ski Lane in Madison, WI, from September through May.

Each year, the girls form a new company, take field trips to women owned businesses, learn to interview a business owner, brainstorm product ideas, write and present a business plan, take orders, produce and sell their product, and keep track of revenues and expenses. They determine their profit and decide how much to give to the charity that they choose.  Then they plan their trip! 

Throughout the year, the girls meet women in business and increase their skills in planning, speaking and sales, while having fun with their friends! The experience of GIRLS'BIZ stays with these girls as they later make their own work and life choices.






Contact: Sally Hestad
Phone: 608-273-1600
E-mail:  hestad@hestadlaw.com