Laura Filipowicz, CEO and Founder of Bag Lady Promotions, will award one (1) Build Your Dream Business scholarship to a  business owner with an innovative business idea and who is in need of capital to take her business to the next level - or build a new one!   Laura's goal has always been to help support women business owners and to lend a helping hand whenever possible.

" I understand that sometimes it is difficult to start your own business with a family, or it is sometimes difficult to gain the funding because there are other bills to pay like tuition.  Whatever the reason and whether you are a mom or a young entrepreneur, sometimes getting started or taking your existing business to the next level is difficult financially.  I hope to make a difference and am thrilled to be able to help one person take their business dream to another level, this year!"

The winner will be announced at the BLP Connect! 2011 Conference in Los Angeles.

CANDIDATES

Do you have a fantastic business idea?  Do you want to expand your business this year?  Do you have a million things you can do to make your business better?
...but financial funding is a problem?  You could be the recipient of the BLP Build Your Dream Scholarship.  You may apply in one of two capacities: 1) new business idea or 2) existing business looking to expand.  Candidates must meet the criteria below to be eligible for the BLP Scholarship.  You may only apply for one category.

If applying as a new business:

• You must be an entrepreneur with a majority-owned share in the business.
• Your business must offer an innovative service or product that sets you apart from the competitors.
• You must have a clear growth plan indicating how the scholarship will be utilized.
• You must be registered to attend the BLP Connect! 2011 Conference in Los Angeles.

If applying as an existing business with plans of expansion:

• You must be an entrepreneur with a majority-owned share in the business.
• Your business must offer an innovative service or product that sets you apart from your competitors.
• You must demonstrate a specific expansion need.
• You must have owned and operated your business for at least 1 year
• You must have a clear growth plan indicating how the scholarship will be utilized.
• You must be registered to attend the BLP Connect! 2011 Conference in Los Angeles.

RULES FOR SUBMISSION

• You may only apply under one (1) category.
• Only one submissions will be accepted per person or joint partnership.
• Submissions will only be accepted from individual business owners or a joint business partnership.
• Applicant must live in the United States.
• All submission must be received by August 31, 2011.  Submissions past this date will not be considered.
• You must be registered to attend the BLP Connect! 2011 Conference in Los Angeles.

SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FOR CONSIDERATION