National Association of Women Business Owners

National Association of Women Business Owners
Name	National Association of Women Business Owners
Founded	1975
Location	Washington, D.C.
Key people	Cynthia McClain-Hill (National Board Chair)
Website	https://www.nawbo.org/

National Association of Women Business Owners is the premier organization representing the interests of women entrepreneurs across the United States. Founded in 1975, it has grown into a powerful network advocating for economic equity and providing critical resources for women-owned businesses. The association connects members through local chapters and national initiatives, fostering growth and influence. Its work is recognized by institutions like the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

History

The organization was established in 1975 in the San Francisco Bay Area by a group of pioneering entrepreneurs, including Susan Hager, who later served as its first national president. Its formation coincided with a period of significant social change, following the passage of legislation like the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. Early efforts focused on gaining recognition for women-owned businesses as a vital segment of the American economy. Throughout the 1980s, it expanded its advocacy, influencing federal policy through testimony before committees like the United States House Committee on Small Business. A landmark achievement was its instrumental role in the passage of the Women's Business Ownership Act of 1988, which established the National Women's Business Council. The association's headquarters are now located in Washington, D.C., positioning it at the center of national policy debates.

Mission_and_Objectives

The core mission is to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power worldwide. A primary objective is to strengthen the wealth-creating capacity of members by providing innovative resources and strategic alliances. It aims to transform public policy and influence opinion on issues ranging from tax reform to international trade. The organization also seeks to build a diverse and inclusive community, as outlined in initiatives like its Institute for Entrepreneurial Development. These goals are advanced through partnerships with entities such as IBM and the United States Department of Commerce.

Membership_and_Benefits

Membership is open to women business owners across all industries and revenue levels, from startups to established corporations. Key benefits include access to exclusive networking events, educational webinars, and mentorship programs often featuring leaders from Forbes or Ernst & Young. Members gain visibility through the organization's online directory and opportunities to connect with potential clients and corporate suppliers like FedEx. The association also provides members with research and market intelligence, including data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Additional perks include discounts on business services, insurance programs, and travel arrangements.

Advocacy_and_Policy

The association maintains a robust advocacy agenda, working to level the playing field for women entrepreneurs in Washington, D.C. It lobbies on issues including access to capital, federal contracting, and health care costs. Policy staff regularly engage with agencies like the U.S. Small Business Administration and testify before the United States Congress. A significant focus has been on the implementation and strengthening of programs like the Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program. The organization also mobilizes its members for events such as the annual National Women's Business Summit and advocates for international trade policies through collaborations with the International Trade Centre.

Chapters_and_Leadership

The national network is supported by dozens of local chapters in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta. Each chapter operates semi-autonomously, hosting local events and providing grassroots support while adhering to the national strategic vision. Leadership includes a national board of directors, currently chaired by attorney Cynthia McClain-Hill, and a professional staff led by a Chief Executive Officer. The board comprises successful entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, and chapter presidents often serve in advisory capacities. This structure ensures the organization remains responsive to both local member needs and national priorities.

Programs_and_Initiatives

Key programs are designed to address the lifecycle needs of a woman-owned business. The Public Policy Institute educates members on effective advocacy, while the Women’s Business Center model is supported through national grants. Leadership development is fostered through the Institute for Entrepreneurial Development, which offers executive training. The organization also runs the NAWBO Propel program, providing growth strategies for established businesses, and the NAWBO Next initiative for emerging entrepreneurs. Corporate partnerships with companies like Bank of America and Google underpin many of these educational and funding initiatives.

Awards_and_Recognition

The association confers several prestigious awards to honor excellence and impact. The annual Woman Business Owner of the Year award recognizes outstanding entrepreneurial achievement, with past winners celebrated at events in venues like the National Press Club. The Public Policy Award honors advocates who have advanced legislative goals, while the Chapter of the Year award highlights exceptional local engagement. Members have also been recognized by external institutions, receiving honors such as the SBA Small Business Person of the Year and features in publications like Inc. Magazine and The Wall Street Journal.

Category:Business organizations based in Washington, D.C. Category:Women's business organizations Category:Organizations established in 1975