10 Amazing Resources for Women in Business: US and Canada Edition
In the world of business, women are game-changers, disruptors, and innovators. From emerging start-ups to established corporations, women are making significant strides every single day. However, challenges still arise for women in business, but fortunately, there are plenty of resources available to help them thrive, both in the United States and Canada.
In this post, we will highlight five fantastic resources from each country that provide networking opportunities, professional advice, and a supportive community for female entrepreneurs and businesswomen.
Resources for Women in Business in the United States
1. National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO): Founded in 1975, NAWBO is a powerful resource for women entrepreneurs. They offer mentorship programs, provide networking opportunities, and advocate for policies that support women-owned businesses.
2. Ladies Who Launch: This global network inspires women to embrace entrepreneurship. LWL provides a dynamic, accessible platform offering content, community, coaching, and connections to help women start and expand their businesses or careers.
3. Ellevate Network: A global network of professional women committed to helping each other succeed, Ellevate provides a variety of resources including webinars, workshops, and events to empower women in the workforce.
4. SBA Women’s Business Centers: Managed by the Small Business Administration, these centers offer a wealth of resources for women entrepreneurs, including business training, advice, and access to credit and capital.
5. Women 2.0: Focused on technology and innovation, Women 2.0 provides content, community, and conferences for aspiring and current innovators in technology.
Resources for Women in Business in Canada
1. The Female Founders Network: This Invoice2go-sponsored initiative is an international, women-only entrepreneurial and leadership podcast and Facebook group. It is an excellent place to connect with like-minded women and gain valuable business advice.
2. Ellevate: Similar to its American counterpart, Ellevate Canada offers extensive networking opportunities, virtual mentoring, and a weekly podcast covering relevant topics with industry leaders.
3. Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE): For over twenty years, AWE has provided resources, networks, loans, and tools for female entrepreneurs, particularly those living in the western province of Alberta.
4. Canadian Small Business Women (CSBW): Launched by a Jamaican-born woman who emigrated to Toronto, CSBW offers events, workshops, webinars, and resources to help Canadian women get their small businesses off the ground.
5. Indigenous Women’s Business Network: Based in British Columbia, this business network offers free memberships to Indigenous women and provides valuable resources, workshops, and webinars to help them start their own businesses or expand their knowledge and network.
By tapping into these resources, women in business can find the support they need to succeed, no matter where they are located. With the right network and resources at your disposal, there's no limit to what you can achieve as a woman in business, be it in the US or Canada. So go forth, connect, and conquer!