InnovateHER looks to unearth products aimed at working women and families

In a world where women make up nearly half the national labor force and children are increasingly born into families where both parents work, a need for products and services to aid these working mothers and families emerges. That’s according to the Office of Women’s Business Ownership at the U.S. Small Business Association — and that’s why they’ve developed a national platform aimed at discovering these products and services.
The SBA is hosting its second national InnovateHER pitch competition, with local pitch nights beginning as early as next month.
Applications are currently open for the eight to 10 businesses that will pitch at the event in D.C. Three winners from this qualifying round will face off again on Dec. 1, and the winner of that final round will have the opportunity to submit a business plan to the SBA for review. Finally, the 10 National Finalists will reconvene is D.C. in March 2016 to determine a winner.
Apply to pitch
Given the focus of this pitch competition, there are certain stipulations that pitching businesses must meet. Chief among the eligibility requirements are these three guidelines:

• The product or service must have a measureable impact on the lives of women and families.
• The product or service must have the potential for commercialization.
• The product or service must fill a need in the marketplace.

The qualifying round in D.C. will be held at DLA Piper, with support from Springboard Enterprises, Equita, Hera Hub, Her Corner and Fosterly.