POWELL, Ohio - Mitt Romney is promising to promote women-led businesses if he's elected president.

He says women in this country are more likely to start businesses than men, and "women need our help."

Romney spoke to about 5,000 people at an outdoor rally near Columbus, Ohio, with running mate Paul Ryan at his side.

Today's rally is expected to be Romney's final public appearance before the Republican National Convention opens Monday in Tampa, Fla.

Both parties hope to use their conventions to appeal to female voters.

The Republican convention will feature high-profile women such as former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez. Planners also shifted the speaking slot for Romney's wife, Ann, to ensure network television coverage of her speech.