There are approximately two million small businesses in New York, and collectively they make a significant impact on the state’s economy. On March 17, one standout New York entrepreneur will compete in a nationwide competition that could net her cash and prizes that will take her business to the next level.
Susan Leary Shoemaker from Undercare, Inc. is one of 10 finalists competing in the 2016 InnovateHER: Innovating for Women Business Challenge, put on in partnership between the U.S. Small Business Administration and Microsoft. At the event, being held in Washington, D.C., Susan will pitch Undercare, which offers innovative undergarments that accommodate persons who have difficulty dressing. A panel of expert judges will select three winners from the field, with $70,000 in prizes at stake.
Now, in its second year, the InnovateHER competition seeks to uncover products or services that will fill a need in the marketplace and have the greatest potential for commercialization. Last year, the SBA and Microsoft engaged over 100 organizations and reached over 1,000 entrepreneurs across the nation through InnovateHER.
For more information on the competition and to keep up with developments, including the winner announcement, visit www.sba.gov/innovateher. Good luck to all of the entrepreneurs pitching their innovations!