Prosper Women Entrepreneurs (PWE), one of the first programs in the country designed to advance women-led businesses, is accepting applications for business leaders to take their company to the next level of growth. Applications are now open for the sixth cohort, which will run from August through November of 2017. PWE has graduated a total of 27 companies and invested over $1.5 million in their success.

"As we recruit the sixth cohort of elite women-led businesses in technology, healthcare IT, FinTech, SaaS and consumer products industries, we continue to capitalize on superior teams that are currently under-recognized and underfunded," said Mary Jo Gorman, MD, MBA, Lead Managing Partner of PWE Startup Accelerator and Founder of Advanced ICU Care. "Today, only 10% of venture funding goes to women-led companies, and as we make our final investments in 2017 from this fund, our goal is to provide these companies with better results and meaningful investments."

PWE Startup Accelerator participants will receive:

• $50,000 capital investment (initial)

• Opportunity for up to $100,000 in follow-on funding

• Access to world-renowned mentors, exposure to a network of experts and investors, and a customized curriculum designed to advance business growth and raise follow-on capital

• Alumnae receive continued support through PWE's partnerships with prosperous executives dedicated to helping women-led businesses succeed

The program culminates on Demo Day, when the entrepreneurs pitch their plan to business leaders, venture capitalists, angel investors and potential clients.

"More than 80% of the companies from our previous investments have received follow-on funding within one year of participation," Gorman said. "The companies have gone on to raise more than $10 million in additional funds."

Based in the heart of St. Louis' innovation district, PWE Startup Accelerator participants commit to being in St. Louis for just 15 days during the three-month program. Relocation is not expected.

Prosper Women Entrepreneurs is accepting applications for the 2017 Fall Accelerator class - nominations and applications are due on May 19, 2017. To nominate or apply, please visit www.prosperstl.com/accelerator.