About this Program
This program is currently on hiatus and will be offered again in the 2025-26 academic year. To get updates, sign up for program updates ("Want to Get the Latest?") below.
Starting your own business or a new venture requires an idea — and an entrepreneurial mindset. Achieving your vision also often requires strong professional and community connections, especially for women-led ventures . According to the World Economic Forum , having access to mentors and supportive networks is key to empowering anyone who wants to build business skills and confidence and bring their ideas to life.
In this program, you’ll learn to craft compelling pitches for your ideas and make sound business decisions in finance, sales and marketing, human resources, and more. You’ll understand common traits of successful startups, investors and intrapreneurs, and you’ll meet inspiring entrepreneurs who were once on a similar path. From day one, you’ll become part of a collaborative peer-to-peer network, and you’ll learn directly from our mentors and instructors, who bring extensive knowledge of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Designed For
Anyone who wants to start or operate their own business, join an early-stage startup, pitch a new venture at their current workplace, or become a stronger leader. Also good for investors, business partners or others who want to support women’s entrepreneurship.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
This is a program for aspiring entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs and innovators and has no formal admission requirements. Anyone is encouraged to apply.
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about nine to 11 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid . To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs .
International Students
To enroll, international students must have a visa that permits study in the United States. This program does not enable students to obtain or maintain F-1 visa status. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students .
Technology Requirements
Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
High-speed internet connection
Headset and webcam (highly recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate .
Video Overview
Instructor Kia Davis discusses the value of learning how to be an entrepreneur through this program and the holistic set of tools and support it provides.
Duration: 3:08
Play
What You’ll Learn
How to make great business decisions and implement a winning launch strategy
Ways to tackle fears, overcome obstacles and dive deep into the personal motivations that fuel your drive
Essential skills for building a network of partners, suppliers and customers
Strategies to confidently navigate the entrepreneurial ecosystem
Insights on your leadership style, personal strengths and areas for improvement
Get Hands-On Experience
Build a business plan, pitch your idea and get direct feedback from established entrepreneurs and investors
Develop networks with fellow entrepreneurs and work in small teams to support each other's ideas
Learn to leverage your strengths with the guidance of our leadership coaches
Discover even more about Seattle's thriving entrepreneurial community via WE Lead at the Buerk Center for Entrepreneurship.
Earn a Joint UW-WWU Certificate
This certificate program is a partnership of UW Professional & Continuing Education and Western Washington University Professional and Continuing Education. When you complete the program, you'll earn a joint UW-WWU certificate.
SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDING
You may be eligible for a scholarship or funding to cover some of the costs of this program, including:
▸ Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership (WEL) Certificate Scholarship Western Washington University scholarships
After you apply and are accepted into the WEL Certificate program, you'll receive additional information about scholarship opportunities. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career.
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options .