The Coaching & Resources for Entrepreneurial Women (CREW) program is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to empower early-career women in science to become successful entrepreneurs. Founded in 2022 by Dr. Carol Feghali-Bostwick, a renowned entrepreneur and Kitty Trask Holt Endowed Chair for Scleroderma Research, the program seeks to bridge the gap in knowledge and support that women often face when venturing into entrepreneurship. Drawing from her own experiences, Feghali-Bostwick understands the challenges that women entrepreneurs encounter and is dedicated to providing the necessary tools and guidance through the CREW program.
One of the key objectives of the CREW program is to redefine the concept of entrepreneurship for women in science. Dr. Angela Passarelli, an expert in coaching and a key figure in the program, emphasizes the importance of women defining entrepreneurship on their own terms. By encouraging participants to align their entrepreneurial endeavors with their personal values and goals, the program aims to build confidence and empower women to succeed in the business world while staying true to themselves.
The program caters to a diverse group of participants, including postdoctoral fellows and early-career faculty members, at various stages of their entrepreneurial journey. Whether they are just starting with an idea or already have a business in place, the CREW program provides the intellectual focus and resources needed for success. Participants like Dr. Breege Howley, Dr. Yosra Alkabab, and Dr. Allison Wilkerson have benefited from the program by gaining valuable insights and guidance to advance their entrepreneurial projects.
The CREW program offers a unique blend of mentorship, coursework, and professional coaching to support participants in reaching their entrepreneurial goals. Mentors with entrepreneurial experience provide practical advice and guidance, while the entrepreneurship course introduces participants to key concepts like intellectual property protection and business planning. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to pitch their ideas during MUSC’s Innovation Week, further enhancing their entrepreneurial skills.
Mentoring sessions in small groups allow for diverse perspectives and tailored advice, while professional coaching focuses on individual development and building personal resilience. The coaching component, led by certified coaches, helps participants explore their values and motivations, aligning their entrepreneurial activities with their broader personal goals. This personalized approach has been instrumental in boosting the confidence and skills of participants like Dr. Alkabab and Dr. Wilkerson.
The connections forged through the CREW program extend beyond the duration of the program, creating a lifelong network of support and collaboration. Participants like Dr. Howley have expanded their research networks and gained confidence as entrepreneurs through these connections. Dr. Passarelli emphasizes the importance of maintaining these relationships as valuable resources throughout participants’ careers.
In conclusion, the CREW program is not just about entrepreneurship; it’s about making a meaningful impact. Participants like Dr. Howley, Dr. Alkabab, and Dr. Wilkerson have leveraged the program to advance their innovative projects and drive positive change in their respective fields. By providing a supportive environment, valuable resources, and personalized coaching, the CREW program empowers early-career women in science to redefine entrepreneurship and make a lasting impact in the business world. To learn more about the CREW program and how to apply, visit their website for further information.
