Focusing on Women Owned Businesses

Part of my new role at the Greater Des Moines Partnership is focusing on women-owned businesses. So, you’re wondering, why?

As a female business owner myself, I can relate to what these women face. Not only are they running a business, but they are also volunteering in their communities, many raising families and some are working another job. By supporting local business, we build better communities.

In 2015, an American Express Survey placed Iowa last for the “combined economic clout” of women-owned businesses, based on factors like growth in the number of firms, growth in firm revenue and growth in employment between 1997 and 2015.

After this study was released, a fire to raise awareness and grow our state’s female-owned businesses was ignited. In 2016, another report was released, and Iowa was removed from the bottom of the list and featured as a one of the top states for growth after the recession.

Local Programming

Empowering female entrepreneurs has been a passion of mine for years. After joining The Partnership, I approached the Iowa Center for Economic Success' Women’s Business Center and asked if I could promote the First Friday Series. The First Friday series allows for attendees to catch words of wisdom from small business owners and entrepreneurs who have been through it before and connect with fellow attendees in a laid-back environment.  

The number of female entrepreneurs is on the rise. As the numbers continue to grow, I am humbled to work with these women to create better futures for themselves and out communities. By focusing on buying local, strategic planning and creating educational opportunities for our female businesses, we continue to raise the awareness and financial impact.

Understanding the financial impact small business plays can have a massive impact. According to The Partnership’s Look Local First campaign, businesses and governments in Greater Des Moines (DSM) spend more than $13.4 billion with out-of-area suppliers. Shifting just five percent of that spending to support local vendors and businesses could generate an economic impact of more than $1 billion for the region. One more reason to support your local business. 

Reasons to Visit and Purchase Locally

• You keep more money in your local economy
• You celebrate the uniqueness of your community
• You support local jobs
• You encourage community
• You conserve your tax dollars
• You benefit from their expertise
• You invest in entrepreneurship
• You make this community a destination

Learn more about The Partnership’s Business Resources and the next First Fridays event.