It’s National Women’s Small Business Month all month long so what are you waiting for? Support a woman-owned small business every day this month!  In October, West Center highlights some of the benefits women bring to communities when they own a small business.  

Did you know the US has 12.3 million women-owned businesses and those businesses generate $1.8 trillion a year? And women-owned small businesses increase diversity in the small business community. 

Whether you already own a small business or are considering opening one, here are some ideas about how you can lend support to this critical part of our local economy.

  • Hold an event!
    Events (even virtual ones) promote healthy small businesses by providing information and offering the resources that all business owners need to know. Check out West Center’s upcomiing workshops here.

  • Become a mentor to other women
    If you’ve been in business for some years, then you know some of the stumbling blocks that new business owners face. Turn your hard-earned experiences into a lesson for others to follow. Your insight will bring clarity and confidence. West Center is always looking for business advisors to join our team of experts! Check the requirements here!

  • Sharpen your skills
    No matter how long you’ve been in business, there’s always more to learn about how to do business better. Sign up for an online or in-person class to broaden your horizons and improve your skills. Learning helps create a brighter future!

  • Network, network, network!
    In our communities, many organizations support small businesses. Join with other like-minded women to share your experiences and become a voice for other women. Organizations you could consider include chambers of commerce, women in business groups, and national organizations. 

  • Support a woman-owned small business
    Women-owned businesses are everywhere! Shop local and show your support for women-owned businesses every day. Watch our video profiles of some of our women business owners. 

  • Share!
    Tag your favorite women-owned businesses on social media… and tag #WomensSmallBusinessMonth to get the word out.

We’ve been talking to some of our women business owners this month. Listen to what they have to say!

Watch all our Women’s Business Center videos here!

West Center is home to the Mendocino Women’s Business Center and we’ve been helping the women business owners in Mendocino County since 1989. Contact us today to find out how we can help you! www.westcenter.org