Finalists selected by the WE Fellowship Selection Committee will showcase their innovative ideas in a 10-minute presentation at our public Pitch Competition on April 9,2026.
Before taking the stage, each finalist works with an expert advisor to fine-tune her presentation, ensuring a compelling pitch for the audience and judges alike.
Don’t miss your chance to support these inspiring women and witness the next wave of visionary leaders!
Women-owned businesses make up less than half of all U.S. enterprises. Despite the outsized impact women entrepreneurs have on growth and innovation, only 39.2% are majority-owned by women, according to the 2024 National Women’s Council Report and the 2025 Wells Fargo Impact of Women-Owned Businesses Report. Gaps in access to capital, mentorship, and visibility continue to limit how far many women-owned businesses can grow.
The Junior League of New Orleans is working to change that.
Since 2016, the Woman Entrepreneur (WE) Fellowship has been JLNO’s signature initiative supporting one female founder each year with financial backing, hands-on mentorship, and in-kind services designed to help early-stage businesses grow with intention.
This program is provides than funding. It’s a year-long investment in a founder’s vision, backed by a community of women leaders committed to helping you succeed.
The fellowship components listed below reflect recent and anticipated support offerings. Final components for the 2026 Fellowship will be confirmed prior to finalist selection and may vary slightly based on sponsor participation.
The Woman Entrepreneur Fellowship is designed for early-stage, women-owned businesses preparing for sustainable growth.
The selected WE Fellow should also reflect JLNO’s values by embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and community impact. Nonprofit organizations, subsidiaries, or franchise businesses are not eligible.
Submit the online application by Sunday, February 1, 2026. Applications are free, and applicants do not need to be JLNO members.
Finalists chosen by the WE Fellowship Selection Committee will deliver a 10-minute presentation at the public Pitch Competition on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Prior to the event, each finalist will meet with an expert advisor to help craft her presentation.
Finalists will present their businesses on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Junior League of New Orleans Headquarters before a judging panel and live audience. A public vote will award an audience prize, and judges will select the Woman Entrepreneur Fellow.
Laura Fenner | Chateau Sew & Sew
Kaitlin Guerin | Lagniappe Bakehouse
Artemis Antippas | Greek Girls Rice Pudding
