LAUNCHING WOMEN’S VENTURE FUND

In 1994 Maria Otero quit practising law to start Women’s Venture Fund. As the president of the organisation, Otero is regularly asked to speak at conferences that focus on female business leadership. She is also often asked to judge small business competitions such as the Forbes Small Business Competition.

ABOUT WOMEN’S VENTURE FUND

Based in New York City, Women’s Venture Fund offers assistance to women who would like to achieve entrepreneurial success. The organisation also offers initiatives that provide support to low-income and minority women in urban areas. Since it was founded, the organisation has helped over 14,000 women with financial backing, individual training and business mentoring through various workshops and advisory services. By tackling individual business challenges and creating an environment in which women entrepreneurs can share their experiences with likeminded people, the Women’s Venture Fund is fostering the economic growth of the women taking part in their initiatives.

MARIA OTERO’S ACHIEVEMENTS

In recognition of her contributions to developing female business owners, Maria Otero has been given several honours and awards, such as the Financial Women’s Association public service award, Bloomberg’s Hispanic Entrepreneur Award and the Small Business Administration Award.

QUOTE

“Women should be true to themselves, their ability to succeed to get to the next level is because they are different and have a different perspective. Continuing to rely on their understanding and perspective will help them to achieve the outcomes they’re looking for.” – Maria Otero

ADDITIONAL FACTS

• Served as Attorney General for environmental issues • Serves on the Mayor’s Commission of Women’s Issues • Was guest columnist of El Diario newspaper • Featured in several regional and national TV shows such as NBC News, WPIX, Fox Business News and Bloomberg News • Featured in the New York Times and Shape Magazine