October is National Women’s Owned Business Month, a time when female entrepreneurs are recognized for their achievements and the positive impact they have on jobs and the economy.
One of the greatest advantages of joining a group like NAWBO Southern Nevada is attending events that celebrate women-owned businesses. This year’s networking opportunity was held on October 3 at Lexicon Bank located in Tivoli Village. This is the second year in a row that NAWBO Southern Nevada has teamed up with its community-focused banking partner to honor women business owners.
The well-attended event featured a power-packed women’s panel that included banking executives, consultants, and entrepreneurs and was a huge and enlightening success.
NAWBO Celebrates National Women Owned Business Month
Businesses owned and operated by women have come a long way over the past decades. In 1972, there were about 400,000 in the U.S. By 2019, women owned 42% of all U.S. businesses, and today, there are more than 13 million women-owned businesses, with the number growing every day.
Still, challenges persist with many women entrepreneurs saying their biggest concern is access to capital.
Panelist Stacy Watkins, President of Lexicon Bank, understands the unique challenges women face in launching and sustaining their businesses. She frequently talks to women business owners and female professionals about these obstacles to growing their businesses, particularly in light of the economic pressures brought on by the pandemic.
During the event, Watkins spoke about Lexicon’s role in assisting women-owned businesses to obtain PPP loans and the guidance it provided in helping them to keep their businesses going.
Other speakers included:
- Jacki Miller, CFO of Smart City Networks and Smart City Telecom, is a leader in technology, tourism, and hospitality businesses.
- Tachelle Lawson, founder of FIG Strategy & Consulting (FIG), is a local force for cultural and branding diversity.
- Ruth Furman, founder of ImageWords Communications, is a communications consultant and master connector.
- Wendi Schweigart, founder of Project Marilyn & Director of Marketing at NDL Group Inc., is a real estate expert who is equally passionate about women’s causes and raising awareness for cancer research and support.
“Women-owned and operated businesses are an essential part of our community,” Watkins remarked, adding that women provide “significantly to our economy and are powerful contributors to gender equality.”
Join NAWBO Southern Nevada Today!
Aside from fantastic networking opportunities, NAWBO Southern Nevada also offers lunch meetings, workshops, and more, including advocacy initiatives, webinars, and leadership development training. Upcoming events include the Mix & Mingle Membership Drive on October 20 and the WODA 2022: Iconic Women of Distinction Awards Luncheon on October 25.
We’re here to give women-owned businesses in Southern Nevada the support and encouragement they need to grow and broaden their support base. Visit our membership page to learn more about joining!
