First Federal of Lakewood and Main Street Lakewood are hosting a two-day seminar entitled, ‘Start Smart: Women and Business Connections.’ The seminar will take place on consecutive Wednesdays, Sept. 17 and Sept. 24, 4:30-7:30 p.m., at First Federal Lakewood, 14806 Detroit Ave. The program is designed to provide the knowledge, tools, and connections necessary to help women entrepreneurs succeed in their businesses.

Tari Rivera, president of Regency Construction, will be the keynote speaker Sept. 17, as a variety of business specialists will be sharing their expertise and knowledge with participants on both seminar days. These business specialists include an attorney, CPA, banker, sales and marketing consultant, Web designer, insurance specialist, business coach, investment service representative and workers’ compensation expert. Each of these professionals will bring their start-up experiences and advice to interactive round table discussions.

“We are excited to be hosting this program and bringing together a wealth of resources at our main office branch in Lakewood”, said Debbie Girman, branch sales manager, First Federal of Lakewood. “Women entrepreneurs represent one of the most vibrant segments of the economy and it is a truly rewarding experience to help aspiring business owners bring their plans to life.”

To learn more or register, call Debbie Girman at (216) 529-2633 or go to www.FFL.net/startsmart. The $25 seminar fee covers registration, materials and hors d'oeuvres. The registration deadline is Sept. 8, 2008.