VCWoman Achieve Mentor Spotlight | Andrea L. Kleinhenz

VCWoman Achieve is a mentorship program dedicated to forming meaningful relationships and helping an entire community of women flourish professionally. We are so excited to introduce you to an ongoing series where we celebrate the success and achievements of the amazing members of Woman Achieve.

The Venture Center: What inspired you to participate in VCWoman Achieve?

Andrea L. Kleinhenz:

When I was opening my business, this was exactly the community I would have wanted to guide me. As a new business owner, I would have loved to have a group of like-minded entrepreneurs to bounce questions off of and seek guidance. With over seven years of experience now, I felt that I would be able to mentor someone just starting out – and give guidance that I really wanted and needed at the beginning of my own journey.

What value has this mentorship program brought to you both personally and professionally?

It has been inspiring to see such an encouraging, ambitious, and talented group of women entrepreneurs we have in Arkansas. I am energized and optimistic about the future of small business, both personally and professionally.

What growth have you seen in both your mentee and yourself throughout this program?

My mentee has used this opportunity to increase her business acumen, grow her network, and build her business. I have seen her grow more confident in promoting herself and giving her sales pitch. I have grown more comfortable saying “I don’t know” when something is outside my wheelhouse. I have also gained confidence that I know more than I think I do when it comes to running a business.

What advice would you give to those interested in applying for this program?

There is nothing to lose and everything to gain. Engage with your fellow women business owners. Be available. Ask the stupid questions (there are no stupid questions). Use this opportunity to network, cross-promote, and learn. Apply. You won’t regret it.