Women-owned businesses are increasing in numbers in Arizona and across the nation. According to a 2018 report by SCORE, women-owned businesses make up 39% of small businesses across the nation and employ nearly nine million people. It’s vital to support small businesses that create revenue within the local economy and provide opportunities for women to succeed in business.
Here are three easy ways to do that in your community:
- Invest in businesses that are owned by female entrepreneurs.
Simply put, if you want to help women succeed in business, give them your money. Whether you are shopping at a local store, contracting work, building business relationships or investing in a startup, emphasize those owned and run by women. Female business owners strive to support other women, close the gender wage gap and provide solutions to needs that male-dominated businesses may not cover. Your money will help these businesses succeed, from a simple $10 purchase to a multi-year business partnership.
- Leverage social media to share businesses broadly.
When you find a great local business that’s run by women, shout it out on social media! Share the business and their stories with your network and watch their business grow with good old-fashioned word-of-mouth marketing.
- Mentor other women in business.
One of the best ways to support women in business is to provide mentorship and guidance. From finding investors for a fledgling business to marketing products or services down the line, advice from an experienced business owner is invaluable to those who are just starting out. Provide expertise in whatever area you excel, and you’ll build business relationships that will be mutually beneficial in the long run. FBN
By Paula Gilbert
Paula Gilbert is the branch manager of OneAZ Credit Union’s Beaver Street branch. OneAZ employs over 450 Arizonans, with nearly 70% of its workforce made up of women. With 21 branches across the state and a full suite of financial solutions for business or personal needs, OneAZ is proud to support local business and improve Arizona’s economy.