Last year, we launched a new "slogo" (and a new word combining "slogan" and "logo") of NAWBO CREATES CONNECTIONS.   Our March Spotlight on Corporate Partners, which gives us a chance to meet and connect with our Corporate Partners on a one-on-one basis, is the perfect example of why we chose this log.  We will have the opportunity to meet potential prospects for our products and services, to find resources for products and services developed especially for small-business owners and--in some cases--specifically for women business owners. 
 
A feature article in this newsletter highlights the benefits our local and national Corporate Partners offer us as NAWBO members; take a look at it and make sure you are taking advantage of all the benefits that apply to your business.  The dues and sponsorships paid by our Corporate Partners provide the funds to staff our NAWBO office, hold our Lunch and Learn Educational Series, host fund-raising events such as our Golf Tournament and Annual Luncheon, print our Resource Guide, and pay speaker expenses for our monthly meetings.  Corporate Partner involvement also gives us the opportunity to offer you programs like the new Micro-Lending Program, a direct result of our partnership with JP Morgan Chase, and the Legal Hotline that Jackson Walker provides for us.
 
To receive maximum benefit from this meeting, come prepared with business cards and questions about any business services or products you may need in the next year. Make sure you make reservations for the March 11^th meeting so that you can take advantage of this opportunity to make connections that will help you grow your business and find new business resources! 
 
Also, following my President’s letter is an article on our Board of Directors Mid Year Planning Retreat.  Some of our accomplishments for the first half of the year and plans for the second half of the year are listed.  I think you will find it interesting reading.
 
See you in March!