Celebrating Women’s History Month: A Look at Female Entrepreneurship

A Brief History

Women’s History Month is celebrated every year during the month of March. Since its inception in 1987, the celebration serves as a reminder of the contributions of some of the most ground-breaking women in our country’s history.

One year later, in 1988, the Women’s Business Ownership Act (bill H.R. 5050) was passed and signed into law. It established the formation of the National Women’s Business Council (NWBC) and provided funding for the creation of women’s business centers offering training, support, and assistance.

But perhaps most notable is the fact that the Women’s Business Ownership Act eliminated antiquated and discriminatory lending practices such as state laws requiring a female to have a male relative co-sign a business loan. While there are still major inequities in the business world and a long way to go for gender equality, this change was pivotal in propelling female entrepreneurship forward.

Now, in 2021, women own or co-own 45% of all businesses in the United States.

Resources for Women-Owned Businesses

If you’re a current or aspiring female entrepreneur, here are some useful resources to help you on your journey:

The Office of Women’s Business Ownership’s mission is to enable and empower women entrepreneurs through advocacy, outreach, education, and support.

The National Women’s Business Council is a non-partisan federal advisory committee serving as an independent source of advice and policy recommendations to the President, the U.S. Congress, and to the Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration on issues of importance to women business owners and entrepreneurs. The NWBC is committed to advocating for women in business. They offer webinars, roundtables, and various other resources.

Ascent is a free learning platform for women entrepreneurs. It boasts tons of in-depth information to help women grow their businesses developed by experts in women’s entrepreneurship.

U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce (USWCC)

The U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce gives voice to the collective strength of women in the U.S. economy. They help women start and build successful businesses and careers, gain access to government contracts, grow as leaders and prepare for a secure retirement.

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)

The WBENC is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping women-owned businesses thrive. They provide certifications and various tools to help women-owned businesses succeed.

The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)

The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) represents the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries, with chapters across the country.

How We Can Help

SBG Funding is committed to working to help women-owned businesses access the funding they need. Our mission is to provide fast, flexible, and affordable funding solutions tailored to the unique needs of the businesses we serve. Interested in growing your business, but not sure where to start? Click here or call us at (844) 284–2725 to find out how we can help.