While much national attention is given to women in March – National Women’s History Month – very little focus is given to the importance of October, National Women’s Small Business Month.
By all accounts, research has shown that from Malaysia to the Midwest, when women are economically empowered their households and communities are too.
When it comes to business ownership for women of color, our impact is no lesser. According to the Kauffman Foundation:
- 59 percent of black-owned businesses are owned by women.
- 44 percent of Hispanic-owned businesses are owned by women.
- 39 percent of Asian-owned businesses are owned by women.
As we end the month, let us make heroins of women who have dedicated themselves to living out their fullest potential by pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. Whether you be a multi-million dollar business owner or a moon-lighter who works after-hours on your passion, your efforts are to be appreciated by all.
My life has shown me that you never know who is watching, gaining their own personal courage to leap out on faith and join the league of entrepreneurial ‘bosses’.
If you have not already done so, we encourage you to support a local women-owned small business and let that enterprising woman in your family know that you appreciate her steadfastness and courage for going for her’s and getting it.
Yours in entrepreneurship…
Natalie Madeira Cofield