Show me the money If you're in need of cold, hard cash, you're in luck. Several programs provide women with seed money, micro loans, and even loans of up to $250,000.

I recommend:  Download an application for a loan of $500 to $10,000 from 'Count Me In' or find out how to apply for up to $45,000 in financing at 'Make Mine a $Million Business'. Learn how the SBA's Pre-qualification Loan Program allows women and minorities to pre-qualify for a 7(a) loan up to a maximum of $250,000 before going to a bank.

Make the mentoring and networking connection Finding a mentor can increase your confidence and give you the knowledge you need to start a business. Networking can be equally invaluable as a way to promote and build your business.

I recommend:  Find a mentor at the National Women's Business Center or at SCORE. Ladies who Launch is a women business owner's networking organization specializing in small business incubators and workshops for its 25,000 members. Can't make it to a networking meeting in your area? Make connections with other entrepreneurial women online at Womenowned.com.

Do business with Uncle Sam As a woman business owner, you actually have a leg up on the competition when bidding on lucrative federal contracts. However, before you can bid, you need to get certified as a woman-owned business.

I recommend:  Discover the ins and outs of doing business with the federal government at Womenbiz.gov and download an application to get certified as a women business enterprise at the National Women Business Owner Corporation.

Get access to more business resources Starting and running a business doesn't require a Ph.D., but the more you know about business ownership, the better your chances of succeeding. Take advantage of the many programs available that offer resources to improve your know-how.

I recommend:  Check out programs that really make the grade with a variety of educational and other resources, such as the SBA Women's Business Centers and NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners).