As we honor Women’s History Month, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the female entrepreneurs who have shaped history and continue to pave the way for future generations. This month, we’re highlighting resources, networking opportunities, and communities dedicated to supporting women in business.
From the Small Business Administration (SBA):
Did you know that the SBA operates more than 130 Women’s Business Centers across the country? These centers offer comprehensive counseling, training, and a myriad of other services tailored to assist women entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey.
Women entrepreneurs also have the opportunity to compete for and secure government contracts through the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) program. Here, you can learn how to get certified and capitalize on these contracting opportunities to propel your business forward.
Women in Business Networking Events and Communities:
We asked Juan Guzman, a loan consultant here at Ascendus, for some advice when it comes to budgeting and applying for an Ascendus loan.
- Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC):
WBENC offers networking events, educational resources, and valuable opportunities for business development and growth. - National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO):
NAWBO provides a supportive community of like-minded women business owners through networking events, webinars, mentorship programs, and advocacy efforts aimed at empowering women in business and fostering their success. - Local Women in Business Groups:
Search online to discover local women in business groups in your area, where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs, share insights and experiences, and access valuable resources and support. These groups often host networking events, workshops, and collaborative initiatives that facilitate professional growth and community building within local regions.
Celebrating Women’s History Month is the perfect opportunity to lean into fostering an environment of support and encouragement, propelling each other forward in our entrepreneurial journeys.
This way up!
LOOKING AHEAD
Stay tuned for next month’s newsletter: all about protecting yourself and your business from online fraud and scams.
FEATURED CLIENT
“Trauma crosses every socioeconomic and ethnic boundary, but in communities of color, especially poorer communities of color, mental health can often be judged. I wanted to give my community a safe space to not feel judged and to know that there was nothing wrong with seeking help.” – Sherry Hightower
Watch the Stories of Ascension video series, and learn more about the incredible small businesses that are focusing on providing an impact, making a difference in their communities, and the journey up.
Pia Yoga offers yoga classes for individuals, events, and online from the comfort of your own home! With occasional retreats and a myriad of yoga certifications under her belt, Pia continues to deepen her yoga journey and spreads the many benefits of yoga to those she teaches.
Omo Sade offers skincare and makeup made from natural ingredients created by Sade Tyler. Sade is originally from Nigeria and is passionate about creating quality products inspired by old Yoruba traditions to empower women of all colors to embrace and love their skin.
Periwinkle Art & Glassworks is a local art gallery and glass studio in Massachusetts offering a variety of classes and workshops for all ages.
LOAN PRODUCTS AND EVENTS:
Need a loan, line of credit, or just some personal finance coaching to help your business grow? Check out these products and resources designed for your needs.
Business Term Loan
For small business owners who need money to grow their business, Ascendus offers loans from $500 – $50,000. Qualified businesses will be located nationwide, except in Vermont.
New Jersey Capital Access Fund
Borrow up to $150,000 at a fixed, competitive interest rate for the life of your loan. Available only to small businesses located in the state of New Jersey.
CT Small Business Boost Fund
Supported by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, this fund links Connecticut small businesses and nonprofits to financial support.
Childcare Business Development
Qualified Businesses can be found nationwide, excluding Vermont. If you have been in business for more than three years, you can access up to $25,000 in fast-track financing at the same interest rate within 48 hours. No paperwork is needed to apply.
Rideshare Business Term Loan
Loans up to $15,000 in financing for rideshare businesses are offered at 13.99%.
Business Line of Credit
Access a line of credit up to $25,000 in fast-track financing at a 13.99% interest rate.
New York Forward Loan Fund 2.0
Up to $150,000 with a fixed interest rate for the life of the loan. Eligible to New York small businesses only.
Entrepreneurs of Color Fund
Loans up to $250,000. Eligible to small business owners in any state, excluding Vermont. Must be 51% or more owned by an entrepreneur of color.
“Get Ready” Business Line of Credit
No FICO minimum! This line of credit product is designed for African-American small business owners ready to improve their credit and invest in their businesses — $5,000 offered at 13.99%.
Ascendus Credit Coaching
Free tailored credit coaching for all current clients who are interested in our “Get Ready” Loan product. Training sessions will include credit building, debt management tailored to long- and short-term goals, prioritizing debt repayment, budget assessment, and assessment for current credit-building programs.
MASTERCARD: Digital Doors
A strong digital presence is more critical than ever for your business. Get your business online, protected and equipped with the right digital and financial tools to enable your future growth.
L’Oreal Inclusive Beauty Fund Program
Calling all beauty businesses, salon owners, estheticians, barbers, and stylists, from all corners of the nation!
L’Oréal’s Inclusive Beauty Fund, Hispanic Federation and NAACP are partnering to award one-time grants of $10,000 to 20 entrepreneurs and small businesses in the beauty industry across the United States.
Backing Small Businesses Grant
Hispanic Federation is excited to work with American Express and Main Street America to support the Backing Small Businesses grant program! This year, Backing Small Businesses will provide 500 small business grants of $10,000 to eligible businesses in the U.S. and U.S. territories. Grantees who receive the initial $10,000 grant will be eligible to apply for an additional $30,000 later in the year.
Applications close April 7, 2024 or once 5,000 applications have been submitted, so we highly encourage small business owners to apply as early as possible!
Looking for more business resources? Check out our curation of resources designed to help minority-owned businesses flourish.