The Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC)‘s Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, has been recognized for her compassion and dedication to serving the small business community in Frederick County.

The Touching Lives Award recognizes non-management staff that provide front line services to a Frederick County nonprofit’s clientele, or that provide administrative support that sustains the operations of the organization, and does not manage any staff members (employees). These nominees have demonstrated outstanding involvement and commitment to touching the lives of others.

Karen has served as the Senior Business Consultant for the Frederick office for three years, exemplifying MWBC’s mission of empowering small businesses and women entrepreneurs to launch and grow through her multifaceted involvement in community initiatives and programs. As a graduate of Leadership Frederick, Karen utilized this platform to develop the Creative Capital Microgrant (CCM) program, leveraging resources and partnerships to bring this initiative to fruition which provides financial microgrants to qualified businesses in creative industries to accelerate short-term returns on investment and foster ongoing growth.

Karen describes being part of the She Pitch competition as among her favorite accomplishments, helping to get the competition off the ground, and being a part of witnessing the women’s hard work and journey. Karen demonstrates her dedication to supporting female entrepreneurs at various stages of business development, contributing not only to programmatic operations, but also valuable technical assistance to participants, embodying traits of compassion, dedication, and collaboration. Fostering community cohesion through networking events, creating spaces for entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and thrive, underscores her commitment to building a supportive ecosystem where peers can learn from and inspire one another.

“Karen’s unwavering commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs reflects her dedication to advancing MWBC’s mission. With compassion, dedication, and innovative leadership, she not only transforms the lives of her clients but also inspires her peers and uplifts the entire community. Karen’s impact extends far beyond her professional role, touching hearts and making a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves. She is a true beacon of hope and inspiration, deserving of this esteemed recognition.” -Danette Nguyen, Executive Director