35 Powerful Organizations Every Woman Entrepreneur Should Know About

Starting and scaling a business is an exciting yet challenging journey, especially for women entrepreneurs. Building a strong support network is crucial for navigating the hurdles and achieving sustainable success.

This guide highlights 35 organizations dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, providing resources, mentorship, funding opportunities, and a supportive community.

Networking and Mentorship Organizations

• National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO): A national organization providing resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for women business owners.
• Women Presidents' Organization (WPO): A peer-to-peer learning organization for women presidents, CEOs, and managing directors of privately held, multi-million dollar companies.
• The League of Women Voters (LWV): Works to increase the number of women in elected office and advocates for policies that support women and families.
• Female Founder Collective (FFC): A network of women-led businesses championing collaboration, visibility, and economic empowerment through community, education, and brand partnerships.
• SCORE: Offers free business mentoring and workshops, with a focus on helping small businesses succeed. They have numerous mentors who have experience working with women-owned businesses.
• Ellevate Network: A professional women's network offering online and offline events, mentorship, and resources.
• Lean In: Provides resources and communities to help women achieve their ambitions and create a more equitable world.
• eWomenNetwork: Accelerates women-owned businesses with curated networks, expert guidance, and opportunity-sharing.
• Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP): Provides advocacy training, policy updates, and access to decision-makers so women-owned businesses can influence change.

Funding and Investment Resources

• Grants.gov: A database of federal grants, including those specifically for women-owned businesses.
• Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers loan programs, grants, and other resources for small businesses, including women-owned businesses.
• 37 Angels: An angel investment network focused on investing in early-stage, women-led companies.
• Female Founders Fund: A venture capital fund investing in early-stage, women-led technology companies.
• Golden Seeds: An angel investment network investing in early-stage companies with women in leadership positions.
• Springboard Enterprises: Supports women-led companies seeking equity funding.

Educational Resources and Training Programs

• SBA's Office of Women's Business Ownership (OWBO): Provides training, counseling, and access to capital for women entrepreneurs.
• eCornell Women in Leadership Certificate Program: Offers online courses on leadership skills, negotiation, and strategic decision-making.
• Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women: Provides business education, mentoring, and networking opportunities to women entrepreneurs globally.
• Tory Burch Foundation: Offers educational programs, mentorship, and access to capital for women entrepreneurs.
• Count Me In: Provides online resources and training programs for women-owned businesses.
• Center for Women's Business Research: Provides research and data on women-owned businesses.

Industry-Specific Organizations

• Women in Technology International (WITI): Supports women in STEM fields through networking, mentorship, and resources.
• National Association of Professional Women (NAPW): A networking organization for professional women in various industries.
• Women in Retail Leadership Circle (WIRLC): Provides a platform for women in retail to connect, learn, and advance their careers.
• Women's Jewelry Association (WJA): Supports women in the jewelry industry through networking, education, and advocacy.

Online Communities and Resources

• Facebook Groups: Numerous groups dedicated to women entrepreneurs, offering support, advice, and networking opportunities. Search for groups in your industry or location.
• LinkedIn Groups: Similar to Facebook groups, LinkedIn offers professional networking groups for women entrepreneurs.
• Online Forums: Various online forums dedicated to small business and entrepreneurship, where you can ask questions and get advice from other business owners.
• Websites: Inc.com, Entrepreneur.com and Forbes.com provide a wealth of knowledge.

Advocacy and Policy Organizations

• National Women's Law Center (NWLC): Advocates for policies that promote gender equality and economic security for women and families.
• American Association of University Women (AAUW): Promotes equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research.
• The 9to5 National Association of Working Women: Advocates for policies that improve the lives of working women.

Conclusion

Building a thriving business as a woman entrepreneur requires dedication, resilience, and a supportive network. By leveraging the resources and connections offered by these 35 organizations, you can gain the knowledge, support, and funding you need to achieve your entrepreneurial goals. Remember to explore the organizations that align best with your specific needs and industry. Your success is within reach.