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Overview
Women-owned businesses are increasing in number, range, diversity and earning power. In fact, eight million businesses (28% of all businesses) are owned by women.
As women business owners expand their companies, they become increasingly important to the local, regional and national economies.
Targeted Services for Women
The Pennsylvania Small Business Development Centers provide services to all small business populations and make special efforts to reach members of socially and economically disadvantaged groups, including women. In fact, women-and jointly-owned businesses consistently represent over half of our client base.
Understanding the unique challenges women face, the SBDCs provide services tailored to their specific needs.
Experienced, professional staff help women uncover resources and loan programs available to help them start and grow successful businesses. For instance, consultants may recommend opportunities such as SBA's pre-qualification program, designed especially for those historically underrepresented in the business community.
SBDC consultants help small business owners take advantage of opportunities that level the playing field within the private and public sector. With 8(a) or Minority/Women Business certification, for instance, women-owned firms capable of producing quality products and services at competitive prices have a more competitive position in procuring contracts.
The SBDCs serve women entrepreneurs by providing targeted training and technical assistance to help them compete. Regionally, the SBDC offices coordinate roundtables, networking groups, forums to enable women to know the range of programs and publications available to them throughout their business ownership.
