Women Lift Project’s Post

Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S., yet we receive less than 1% of venture capital funding. Despite these barriers, we persist—leading businesses, creating jobs, and driving innovation. Imagine the possibilities if these ideas were fully funded. I believe it’s time to take a closer look at the systemic issues behind these disparities. That’s why I’m leading Black Women Network's program 'Rewrite the Narrative: Addressing the Funding Divide for Black Women Entrepreneurs', a 3-year research initiative that goes beyond statistics to ask critical questions about the broader impact of underfunding Black women entrepreneurs. This work isn’t just about highlighting inequities—it’s about creating solutions. By uncovering the root causes of this funding gap, we can pave the way for a more equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem—one that doesn’t just lift Black women, but strengthens the entire economy. With your support, we can raise $200,000 to start this vital research and move closer to systemic change. Let’s rewrite the narrative. Click the link below to join us in this bold step forward. #BWN #ReWriteTheNarrative #Research #GivingTuesday

I am deeply saddened by the recent appeals judge ruling against the Atlanta-based Program for Women Business Owners. This program has been a lifeline for many Black women, providing crucial support and opportunities to thrive in their entrepreneurial journeys. Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S., with over 2.7 million businesses owned by Black women, yet they receive less than 1% of venture capital funding. This setback is a stark reminder of the unique challenges Black women still face in the business world. Now, more than ever, we must stand together and support each other. Let’s lift each other up by: - Supporting Black women-owned businesses with our purchases and recommendations. - Urging policymakers to support programs specifically designed for Black women entrepreneurs. - Offering mentorship and guidance to those affected by this ruling. Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive business environment. Let’s ensure no Black woman is left behind. 💪🏿❤️ #BlackWomenInBusiness #SupportBlackWomenEntrepreneurs #EqualOpportunities #DEI #StrongerTogether

Happy National Women's Small Business Month! This October, we celebrate the incredible women entrepreneurs who are driving innovation, creating jobs, and shaping the future of our economy. At Bridging Virginia, we are dedicated to supporting women-owned small business by providing access to affordable capital and technical assistance, ensuring their continued growth and success. As we honor their achievements, we encourage you to join us in taking meaningful steps to support women-owned businesses. Did you know? 🌸Women own 42% of all businesses in the U.S.! 🌸50% of these women-owned businesses are minority-owned. 🌸Every day, 1,817 new women-owned businesses launch! 🌸Women-owned businesses employ nearly 9.4 million people. (SBA, 2024) Women entrepreneurs are breaking barriers, and we’re here to support them every step of the way—whether through funding, resources, or mentorship. Join us in celebrating the power of women in business! Share your favorite women-owned small businesses and let’s amplify their voices.

Why Are Black Women Entrepreneurs Still Undersupported? There are countless studies pointing to the underfunding of Black women entrepreneurs. The statistics are well-documented—but they often stop short of asking the critical questions: +Why does this underfunding persist, even though Black women are among the most educated and entrepreneurial groups in the U.S.? +How does it impact not only these women but our economy as a whole? +And what systemic factors, like loan denials and health disparities, are compounding this issue? Our upcoming research initiative, Rewriting the Narrative: Addressing the Funding Divide for Black Women Entrepreneurs, seeks to fill these gaps. This isn’t just about statistics; it’s about understanding the deeper, systemic issues and their ripple effects on the entire entrepreneurial marketplace. Black women are thriving in many instances without proper investment—but imagine the possibilities if the support matched their potential. This project aims to link these findings holistically, sparking conversations and actionable solutions that have been missing from the dialogue. This isn’t a Black issue—it’s an American issue. When our leading entrepreneurs aren’t funded, everyone loses. Join us in rewriting the narrative. Together, we can identify the problem and move the conversation in the right direction. * Your support will help us conduct vital research to address funding disparities and create a more equitable entrepreneurial landscape. Our Mighty Cause campaign is listed in the comments. #GivingTuesday #RewritingTheNarrative #EquityInEntrepreneurship #SupportBlackWomen #nonprofit #research #charlottenc

In a business world largely steered by men, GROW Nebraska Women’s Business Center (GNWBC) is driving female entrepreneurs to equal success. Since 2021, the center has been empowering Nebraska’s women in business with real-time resources, technical training, and a strong network to help them build sustainable businesses in a competitive market. “We’re here to be the bridge between the entrepreneur and their goals in business,” Eden Butler, executive director of the GNWBC, explained. “We connect you with resources that not only help your business grow, but also create sustainability, all while contributing to the overall economic development of Nebraska.” Visit their profile for more information: GROW Nebraska Women's Business Center

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Insights and Strategies from the Women’s Business Accelerator The Women’s Business Accelerator, presented by Wells Fargo, continues to foster critical connections between AACC members and industry executives. During Session 2, women business owners engaged in powerful discussions on overcoming bias and accessing greater capital. With insight from Stephen Briggs, VP of Community Development, and guidance from Jacques Bailey, Small Business Banking Relationship Manager, participants explored strategies vital for scaling their businesses. Support Black-owned businesses and institutions by joining or renewing your membership with the African American Chamber of Commerce for PA, NJ & DE. Together, we drive change and create lasting impact. #ImpactInAction #DrivingChange #Mentorship #EconomicImpact #EmpoweringOthers

In the past five years, women-owned small businesses have surged, encouraging more underrepresented groups to pursue their entrepreneurial dream. In 2019, women made up 28% of new business owners, and by 2021, that number nearly doubled to 49%. Today, more than 14 million women are building their dreams—and the momentum continues! Here are some of our favorite ways we can all support women in business and champion their success: 1. Broadcast Your Wins – Be proud of your achievements and share them openly. When women tell their stories, they inspire the next generation of leaders. 2. Mentor or Volunteer – Be a role model! By being more visible, whether through mentoring or volunteering, you can encourage young women to pursue their own business dreams. 3. Network with Women Entrepreneurs – Building connections with other women in business is one of the best ways to create support systems and grow together. 4. Support Women-Owned Businesses on Social Media – Even if you don’t own a business, you can still help by promoting female entrepreneurs on social media. Share their stories, products, and services to help spread the word and show your support! Cheers to all these amazing women building their dreams, one business at a time!

Celebrating National Women's Entrepreneurship Day! 💪✨ Today, we honor the incredible women driving change and growth in our communities, especially the over 52% of women-owned businesses at Pittsburgh Yards! From Lakeisha Jones of Pink Pothos in our Container Courtyard to Ronda Flynn Wow, Our Village United, It Takes a Village Transportation, Weathered Not Worn, Crimson Communications, Area West Realty, The Happy Black Parent, Women Engaged, Houston Realty, Aspire Construction and Design, BLH Consulting Inc, Phenomenal Media Productions,  Jayidache, Single Parent Emergency Directive, and Beautiful Venture, and that is just a fraction of our leaders; these women are leaders, builders, and innovators. Women entrepreneurs are shaping the U.S. economy, contributing significantly to job creation and economic growth. With women’s purchasing power totaling over $20 trillion globally and Black women’s buying power exceeding $1.7 trillion in the U.S. alone, it’s clear: women are the backbone of today’s economy. At Pittsburgh Yards, we’re proud to provide the space, community, and resources to help women entrepreneurs thrive. Together, we empower and support their growth. Join us in celebrating the impact of female entrepreneurs today and every day! #WomensEntrepreneurshipDay #FemaleEntrepreneurs #EmpoweringWomen #PittsburghYards #CommunityGrowth Image - Tiffani Caines and Ty Pleas Chantell Glenn Walter Slaton Tameka Phillips

FIRST EVENT DONE! This weekend my company hosted it's first in-person event. Info session full of data and practical tips to get going on the financial journey and lively discussions were had. I created a course to help women get from current limitations to their future version of liberation. It's simple but not easy. Full of accountability and action. Building systems of efficiencies and productivity is the secret sauce. To quote the great Beyonce, "ok ladies now let's get in formation." Namecca says, "Create the business. Grow your business. Transform your life now. Stop Gatekeeping. Build Community." Happy to begin this journey of abundance and prosperity with these wonderful women. This event supported not just me, but 2 other small black women business owners. It lit the spark of interest in about 6 more. The next in person event is in February 2025. It will be co-sponsored by NJM PROFESSIONAL SERVICES & TRAINING LLC and more local businesses. Recent events have not detered or deflated me. I am more determined now than I was before. The goal got bigger and more urgent... #FocusedOnTheNewAssignment

🚨 Doing Business with the State of Maryland hosted by Governor's Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs Tuesday, January 14, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Are you interested in doing business with the State of Maryland? Spending taxpayer dollars requires an open and transparent procurement process. Understanding how the state buys things will help you compete with greater confidence. This session includes an overview of the procurement process and the key differentiators of the state contracting arena. You'll learn how to mine public data to identify what agency is buying what you sell, contracting cycles, winning pricing, and much more. Who should attend? Small, minority, women, and veteran business owners and entrepreneurs who are ready and able to compete and perform in the state contracting arena. Your instructor is Eduardo Hayden, Small Business Outreach Manager, Governor's Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs. To register, click here https://lnkd.in/edXNwACJ #businessdevelopment #governmentcontracting #smallbusinesses #businessowners #founders #nonprofits #entrepreneurs #sbe #dbe #mbe #wbe #lbe #mwbe #wosb #edwosb #veteranowned #womanowned #supplierdiversity #minorityowned #wealth #lgbtq #smallbusinessresources #smallbiz #grants #startups #disabledowned #funding