APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN FOR MONTANA'S WOMEN'S MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Prospera is looking for mentees and mentors for the next 56Strong cohort, which will run January through June 2027.

The application portal is now open and will close on

November 1, 2026.

56Strong connects women entrepreneurs and business leaders from

all of Montana's 56 counties through a one-on-one mentorship program.

This is a six-month program designed to:

• Bridge the gap between the urban and rural divide
• Support female entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses
• Increase female businesses across the state of Montana
• Help women gain access to capital
• Support and build resiliency among female professionals

The next 56Strong cohort will run from January through June 2027.

Requirements for program participation and applications are available on Prospera’s website via this link.

The role of the mentor is to provide encouragement, educate about the technical and/or operational sides of running a business, help set and achieve goals, and assist in building confidence. This is a great opportunity to give back to the Montana business community!

What former Mentors have said about the program:

"When I think of a mentor, I picture someone who’s been around the block a few more times than a mentee and who genuinely wants to help you out. As a mentor, I am here to listen, share relevant stories, and offer advice. Sometimes (like this time) I can help a mentee figure out their next move. And honestly, the best part? The conversations are flexible and often driven by the mentee’s questions and goals." - 2026 56Strong Mentor

"I wish I had a mentor when I started out! These one-on-one meetings would have been so helpful to me. I appreciate what this program is doing." - 2026 56Strong Mentor

This program is profoundly beneficial for mentees and mentors by increasing networks and connections, fostering a community of support, empowering women to build their business, and so much more. 

Consider applying or sharing this information to women in your network that you think could benefit from participating in the program.

Are you or your business interested in supporting 56Strong through sponsorship? If so, please reach out! We are always looking for champions of women's entrepreneurship to help support our programs.

Lindsey Benov is Prospera's Montana Women's Business Center Program Director and is available to help support women in business across the state. If you need help navigating a new business venture, managing an existing business, expanding or scaling your business, purchasing a business, looking for financing, or any other needs, email Lindsey to see how we can help.

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