This scheme aims to develop more profitable and viable long-term opportunities for female-owned businesses, and to create support networks for them.

First, downsizing has led to female-owned small businesses' growing twice as quickly as male-owned small businesses.

He added that the city should encourage banks to lend money to minority- and female-owned businesses.

Male-owned businesses increased profits, but female-owned businesses did not.

And though some eight million female-owned businesses exist, most are small.

The Clinton Administration, Ms. Henry said, has made a priority of increasing the number of female-owned businesses.

The loans will benefit minority- and female-owned businesses in lower Manhattan, many run by Asian immigrants.

One such fair is Springboard 2000, where 28 female-owned businesses raised $165 million last January.

As Commissioner, Stroger sponsored legislation aimed at assisting minority- and female-owned businesses.

He continued and expanded Maynard Jackson's programs for including minority and female-owned businesses in all city contracts.