Woman-owned business
Did you know that about 36 percent of all businesses are women-owned? Or that these companies are responsible for roughly 15 percent of our current employment? With each passing year, women-run brands and women entrepreneurs are making major strides in the business world and generating a positive impact on the health of the U.S. economy. Unfortunately, female-led companies often don’t receive the same treatment and consideration as male-led businesses—the former receives just 16 percent of business loans. That’s why it’s more important than ever to support and empower these leaders of tomorrow. Here are a few ways to get started.
What Does Woman-Owned Business Mean?
The phrase “woman-owned business” can sometimes be used generally refer to companies which were launched and/or are overseen by a woman or group of women. However, some woman-owned companies are officially certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). A WBENC Certification validates that a business is 51 percent owned, controlled, operated, and managed by a woman or women. In addition, a portion of these businesses may apply for certification as a women-owned small business (WOSB) or economically-disadvantaged women-owned small business (EDWOSB) under the WOSB Federal Contract Program (WOSB Program).
Benefits of Supporting a Woman-Owned Business
Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of supporting women-owned businesses is backing companies that are an integral component of our economy. In fact, according to a 2012 survey, women-owned businesses employ over 8.4 million workers and generate $264 billion in payroll. In addition, as majority and joint business owners, women entrepreneurs generate $2.5 trillion in sales.
Tips for Shopping Woman-Owned Businesses
If you’re looking for more ways to support women-led companies, try these smart tips:
Top Woman-Owned Brands
Stock up on these female-founded brands.
DeVita Natural Skin Care
DeVita offers more than 100 natural skin care products that are available in medical spas, physician offices, and natural retail stores in the U.S., Canada, Australia, the U.K., and more. The brand is owned and operated by president and CEO Cherylanne DeVita, Ph.D.
Serum
Infused with topical vitamin C, this serum helps neutralize free radicals and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Use nightly for best results.
Teeccino
Founded by Caroline MacDougall, Teeccino offers non-caffeinated herbal brews to help keep you fueled and nourished throughout the day without the harmful side effects you might experience with coffee.
French Roast Herbal Coffee Alternative
This bold blend of organic carob, organic barley, organic chicory, organic ramon seeds, is so rich and robust, you’ll be surprised to learn it doesn’t include caffeine.
Mamma Chia
Mamma Chia got its start when founder and CEO Janie Hoffman, in her quest to maintain a healthy diet, discovered the many benefits of eating chia seeds. Each nutrient-dense product is produced using sustainable, environmentally friendly practices in order to offer the best organic, chia-based food and beverages on the market.
Organic Black Chia Seeds
Enjoy a dose of protein, calcium, iron, and fiber, plus tons of crunch, with every serving of this superfood essential. Sprinkle these crunchy seeds on salads, yogurt, or smoothie bowls.
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Probiotics are a crucial part of women’s health, especially when it comes to promoting good digestion, vaginal health, fertility health, skin health, and more.
Businesses With a Social Mission
Interested in shopping brands that give back in a big way? We couldn’t agree more, which is why we’ve compiled a short list of a few favorites along with a closer look at our own social initiatives.