Every day, women entrepreneurs are driving our economy forward. According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey, women-owned businesses generate $2.1 trillion in annual receipts. While such contributions are deserving of high praise, it’s also worth acknowledging that women-owned firms only make up 22% of all employer firms.
March is Women’s History Month. The SBA is proud to observe the occasion by offering resources that make it easier for women entrepreneurs to access the marketplace—and maintain success once they get there.
- Women’s Business Centers (WBCs): Women entrepreneurs face unique challenges when starting and growing a business, and WBCs are there to help navigate those challenges. Business counseling and training are available at more than 130 WBCs across the U.S. Finding one near you is as easy as searching by your zip code.
- SBA’s Resource Partner Network: In addition to WBCs, the SBA also partners with other organizations around the country to provide a multitude of tailored services. SCORE connects entrepreneurs with experienced mentors, and Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) offer no- or low- cost counseling and training. At Veterans Business Outreach Centers, veterans, service members, and military spouses interested in starting or growing a small business benefit from workshops, transition assistance programs, and more. Community Navigators were created to help reduce barriers that underrepresented and underserved entrepreneurs often face and offer business training, counseling, funding, and more.
- Funding Programs: Access to credit and capital is vital for small business owners of any background. The SBA streamlines financing opportunities for individuals who may not qualify for traditional funding options by reducing lender risk through its loan programs. Use the Lender Match tool to search for potential lenders in your area. With loan counts increasing by 70% for women entrepreneurs since 2020, there’s never been a better time.
- Contracting Opportunities: Leveling the playing field in industries where women have been traditionally underrepresented is a priority of the SBA. The Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract program limits competition for certain contracts to participants, helping the government accomplish its goal of setting aside 5% of all contracting dollars for women-owned small businesses.
Join the SBA as we celebrate Women’s History Month! Visit sba.gov/events to find events for women entrepreneurs throughout March and explore resources at sba.gov/women.