The emergence of women in business has created some exciting waves, allowing for new and innovative ideas to come to fruition. Small business is an especially popular sector for women in business. It provides opportunities for learning experiences, personal and professional growth, as well as the chance to make money.
Opportunities in small business for women will continue to grow exponentially in the coming years. The market is ripe and there are a plethora of resources available for women in business.
A Growing Market
Women entrepreneurs are taking the small business world by storm. Hundreds of thousands of women are expressing an interest in starting a business and taking full ownership, as well as controllership. This is more than a trend; it is becoming an industry norm.
There are a variety of resources available for women in business. Websites such as WomanOwned.com and FreelanceMom.com are highlighting special opportunities and resources for women entrepreneurs. Whether a woman wants to start working from home to make extra money or take a business idea from conception to full scale implementation, she can find all the tools and information necessary in cyberspace.
Grant Opportunities
Cyberspace isn’t the only place women in business are finding valuable resources. The government and organizations like the Small Business Association (SBA) recognize the emergence of women in business. Therefore, special grant monies and funding options are made available specifically to women entrepreneurs.
A grant is a special financial award directed toward a specific cause, and many women in business are eligible for certain types of grant opportunities that are backed by the government and nonprofit organization. The SBA also provides counseling services and assistance to women in business who are interested in obtaining an SBA-backed loan.
Aspiring entrepreneurs should take steps to learn about these special programs and how they can impact small business for women. In addition to special funding opportunities like grants and SBA-backed loans, women entrepreneurs are subject to certain tax breaks and incentives that make opening a small business all the more enticing.
Literature and Professional Development
In addition to the online resources, a great deal of research and literature is being published regarding women in business. Titles like 101 Best Small Businesses for Women and Capitalizing on Being Woman Owned provide insight on burgeoning industries, tax breaks, government support and marketing techniques. Professional organizations across the globe like the SBA, the National Association of Women Business Owners, and the African American Women Business Owners Association are providing enriching seminars and networking opportunities for women entrepreneurs across the globe.
Women have arrived in business and they are here to stay. The emergence of women in business will continue to grow exponentially, and the resources available from the government, professional associations and online are key elements that will promote continued advancement.
The overwhelming popularity of small business for women will contribute to the continued availability of special funding, tax breaks, incentive programs and support of strong female leaders. It’s time to stat encouraging the development of independent women who are ready to take charge of their future and their careers.
