Creative Ways to Support Female Entrepreneurs During National Women’s Small Business Month (And Beyond)
October is National Women's Small Business Month, so let's celebrate!
Whether you're a woman in business or feel fired up about supporting female-owned businesses, here are five inspiring ways to celebrate the achievements of female entrepreneurs everywhere.
1. Learn about the history of women-owned businesses
Today, there are more female-owned businesses than ever before. According to the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), women-owned businesses accounted for a mere 4.6% of U.S. businesses in 1972.
Nowadays, that number has skyrocketed to approximately 42% of all U.S. businesses. These companies employ 9.4 million people and generate an impressive $1.9 trillion in revenue.
These statistics highlight how far women have come. The stories behind the numbers also provide inspiration to future female entrepreneurs everywhere, which brings us to the next point.
2. Share the stories of female entrepreneurs
Representation matters, and it makes a difference.
The business world is still dominated by men. Sharing the stories of successful women-owned businesses is a great way to show other women that they can build a thriving business, too. You don’t have to identify as female to elevate these stories, either.
However, if you’re a woman with an inspiring entrepreneurial story, don’t hesitate to share your experiences far and wide. You can even start with online networks like LinkedIn. It’s an easy and accessible way to become more comfortable talking about yourself and your business — and you’ll become a thought leader in the process.
3. Get inspired by entrepreneurial women in your area
Are you familiar with the female-owned businesses in your town or city? If you aren’t, October is the perfect time to get to know those companies.
With that in mind, we’d like to share some words of wisdom from a few of our Intelligent Office franchise owners and small business partners:
- “You need to roll with the punches. Don’t take yourself or business too seriously.” - Leslie Keenan, Rockville, MD and Washington, D.C.
- “Surround yourself with mentors that are wiser than you and GO for your dream!” - Amy Danson, Tucson, AZ
- Learn from your team. Have courage and remember that tomorrow is another day!” - Susan J. Hyatt, CEO of Silver Sherpa Inc.
- “Do what you are good at doing and hire professionals for the rest.” - Michele Rosenfeld, The Law Office of Michele Rosenfeld LLC
We’re inspired by these hard-working women every day. If there’s an IO location near you, consider becoming a member — you’ll have a chance to network with plenty of successful female entrepreneurs who own and operate their own businesses.
4. Mentor future female entrepreneurs and business leaders
Future female business leaders need role models, and you could be the one to change a budding entrepreneur’s life. If you’re a woman with a thriving business, consider becoming a mentor or volunteering with organizations that support women in business.
Don’t worry about the size of your business. Whether you employ hundreds of people or operate as a solo entrepreneur, your voice can change a life.
5. Celebrate and support women-owned businesses all year long
October marks the official celebration of women in small business, but we encourage you to support female entrepreneurs every day of the year.
Buying from women-owned businesses is a wonderful way to keep the celebration going, and it’s easy to find businesses that have the goods and services you need. You can start by browsing a directory of women-owned businesses by clicking here.
Each of the companies in the directory has been certified by WBENC (in the U.S.) or by WEConnect (internationally). If you’re a woman who owns a business that isn’t listed in the directory, don’t be shy about adding your name to the list. You can learn more and get certified here.
