How to Support Women Owned Businesses

Supporting women-owned businesses is a powerful way to contribute to economic growth, promote gender equity, and empower women entrepreneurs to thrive in their industries. Women business owners face unique challenges, including unequal access to funding and resources, making it vital for individuals and communities to actively support their ventures. Whether you’re a consumer, an advocate, or a fellow entrepreneur, there are many impactful ways to champion women-led businesses. Here’s an in-depth look at how you can make a difference.

1. Shop from Women-Owned Businesses

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to support women entrepreneurs is by choosing to buy their products or services.

How to Find Women-Owned Businesses:

  1. Online Directories: Platforms like WeConnect International and WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council) provide directories of certified women-owned businesses.
  2. Local Events and Markets: Attend pop-up events, craft fairs, or farmers’ markets that often feature women entrepreneurs.
  3. Social Media Hashtags: Search for hashtags like #WomenOwned or #SupportWomenOwned on platforms like Instagram to discover businesses.

Pro Tip: Look for businesses in industries traditionally underrepresented by women, such as tech, construction, or finance, to broaden your impact.

2. Share and Promote Their Work

Amplifying the visibility of women-owned businesses is invaluable.

Ways to Promote Women Entrepreneurs:

  1. Social Media Sharing: Follow, like, and share their posts to help them reach a wider audience.
  2. Write Reviews: Leave positive reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Etsy to boost their credibility.
  3. Word-of-Mouth: Recommend women-owned businesses to friends, family, and colleagues.

Pro Tip: Tag their business in your posts and stories when showcasing their products or services to encourage others to check them out.

3. Invest in Women Entrepreneurs

Access to funding remains one of the biggest hurdles for women-owned businesses. Supporting them financially can make a significant difference.

Ways to Provide Financial Support:

  1. Crowdfunding: Contribute to crowdfunding campaigns on platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe for women-led projects.
  2. Microloans: Support organizations like Kiva, which offer microloans to women entrepreneurs globally.
  3. Angel Investing: If you’re in a position to invest, consider becoming an angel investor for women-led startups.

Pro Tip: Research women-focused investment funds, such as Golden Seeds or Women’s Venture Fund, which provide targeted funding to female entrepreneurs.

4. Advocate for Policy Changes

Advocating for policies that support women entrepreneurs can create systemic change.

Key Advocacy Areas:

  1. Access to Funding: Push for more equitable funding opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
  2. Mentorship Programs: Support initiatives that connect women with mentors in their industries.
  3. Educational Resources: Advocate for free or affordable business training programs for women.

Pro Tip: Join organizations like the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) to stay informed and involved in advocacy efforts.

5. Collaborate and Partner with Women-Owned Businesses

If you’re a business owner yourself, partnering with women-led businesses can create mutually beneficial opportunities.

Ideas for Collaboration:

  1. Joint Marketing Campaigns: Co-promote your products or services to reach new audiences.
  2. Supplier Relationships: Choose women-owned suppliers or vendors for your business needs.
  3. Event Sponsorships: Partner on events or workshops that showcase women entrepreneurs.

Pro Tip: Highlight your partnerships with women-owned businesses on your website or social media to inspire others to do the same.

6. Educate Yourself and Others

Raising awareness about the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs can inspire more people to take action.

How to Spread Awareness:

  1. Host Workshops: Organize events or webinars about the challenges and successes of women in business.
  2. Share Stories: Use blogs, podcasts, or videos to tell the stories of inspiring women entrepreneurs.
  3. Encourage Allyship: Teach others how they can actively support women in business, from everyday purchases to advocacy efforts.

Pro Tip: Support organizations like SheEO or Vital Voices, which work to uplift women entrepreneurs globally.

7. Celebrate Women’s Achievements

Acknowledging the accomplishments of women in business not only boosts their confidence but also inspires others.

Ways to Celebrate:

  1. Awards and Recognition: Nominate women entrepreneurs for local or national business awards.
  2. Social Media Campaigns: Dedicate a day or month to celebrating women-owned businesses in your community.
  3. Customer Appreciation: Send thank-you notes or testimonials to women entrepreneurs whose work has positively impacted you.

Pro Tip: Participate in initiatives like National Women’s Small Business Month (October) to show your support.

8. Support Women Entrepreneurs Globally

Empowering women entrepreneurs isn’t limited to local businesses—it’s a global effort.

How to Support Globally:

  1. Fair Trade Organizations: Purchase from women-owned businesses in developing countries through platforms like Ten Thousand Villages.
  2. Nonprofit Support: Donate to organizations like UN Women or CARE International, which provide resources to women entrepreneurs.
  3. Virtual Networking: Join online communities that connect global women entrepreneurs for mentorship or trade opportunities.

Pro Tip: Seek out handmade goods or artisan products created by women in underprivileged regions to directly impact their lives.

9. Mentor and Guide Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs

If you have expertise in a specific field, consider mentoring women looking to start or grow their businesses.

How to Mentor Effectively:

  1. Share knowledge about business planning, marketing, or funding.
  2. Provide constructive feedback on their ideas or strategies.
  3. Connect them with resources, networks, or investors.

Pro Tip: Volunteer with organizations like SCORE or Women’s Business Centers that offer mentorship programs.


10. Make Supporting Women-Owned Businesses a Habit

Lastly, commit to making support for women entrepreneurs a regular part of your life.

How to Incorporate Support into Your Routine:

  1. Dedicate a portion of your monthly spending to women-owned businesses.
  2. Create a list of local or online women-led ventures to shop from regularly.
  3. Encourage friends and family to adopt similar habits.

Pro Tip: Celebrate milestones like International Women’s Day by organizing group purchases or donations for women-owned businesses.


Final Thoughts

Supporting women-owned businesses is about more than just economic empowerment—it’s about fostering a more equitable and inclusive society. By shopping from, investing in, and advocating for women entrepreneurs, you’re contributing to their success and inspiring future generations of women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Take the steps outlined here to make a tangible impact, and together, we can help women-owned businesses thrive.