After reaching new heights last year at the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce’s Fanachu Famalao’an summit, Bank of Guam is once again opening the doors, and pushing the button, for women entrepreneurs ready to rise.

Through their ElevateHER pitch program, it’s not just about an elevator pitch, it’s about lifting her voice, her dreams, her business, and her belief in what’s possible.

“We’re super excited to bring it back bigger and better this year,” said Lesley-Anne Leon Guerrero, Senior Vice President & Chief Experience Officer at Bank of Guam. 

She says whether participants have a small business or just an idea ready to take flight, the elevateher pitch program creates space for possibility and purpose.

For last year’s winner, Karmen George of Nemin Guam, the impact was unforgettable.

Her modern twist on traditional dresses didn’t just win her the pitch, it empowered her to run with it.

“What it really did was build her confidence in herself and her story, and really give her the courage she needs to keep on going and keep on innovating,” said Leon Guerrero. 

This year, the program aims to do just that, and even more. 

Three finalists will be selected and mentored by esteemed experts while spending a week with Bank of Guam to dive into sales, brand building, public relations, revenue, and expenses.

And come game day. 

“They get to pitch in front of an incredibly powerful and influential group of people. Every year, Fanachu sells out—they’re looking at pitching in front of about 300-350 women who have very strong networks to help them secure even more opportunities,” added Leon Guerrero. 

Leon Guerrero says the program also drives home the bank's core mission: To support the local community.

“We want you to be able to come to us as partners to be able to prepare you to make your dreams come true–so, it’s super important to us and who we are, and what we want to do in the future and continue to do for everyone in the community,” said Leon Guerrero. 

This year’s winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize, $5,000 in advertising credits from KUAM Communications, and a membership with the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

And the People’s Choice Award, selected by attendees at this year’s Fanachu Famalao’an: ‘In Bloom’ summit, will take home a $2,000 cash prize.

The application period is open now through Friday, Aug. 8. 

For eligibility and more information, visit bankofguam.com/elevateher. 

Meantime, Fanachu Famalåo’an 2025: In Bloom will take place at the Hyatt Regency Guam on Sept. 26.

Important links:
https://bankofguam.com/elevateher

http://guamwomenschamber.com/FF2025