Great Lakes Women's Business Council Marks Four Decades of Support
Celebrating Leadership in Business Development
The Great Lakes Women's Business Council (WBC) has built a reputation as a pioneer in providing loans and resources to underserved entrepreneurs, a mission that it has championed for an impressive 40 years. Founded by a visionary leader, the Great Lakes WBC is dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs across various sectors. By fostering a supportive environment, this organization aims to cultivate success and growth for businesses that might otherwise face challenges accessing traditional funding.
Empowering Entrepreneurs: Success Stories
Countless entrepreneurs have benefited from the council's resources. One inspiring example is Deana Neely, the CEO of Detroit Voltage. Under the mentorship of the Great Lakes WBC, she received vital leadership training to help her navigate the complexities of running her certified Woman Business Enterprise (WBE) specialized in electrical contracting. Her firm provides essential residential and commercial services, reflecting the positive impact of the council's guidance.
Another noteworthy story is that of Kimberly Craig, who represented Musashi Weeder garden tools. Her participation in the national "Making It … With Lowe's" product-pitching competition showcased her drive and determination. However, she hit a setback when looking for funding to generate inventory for her product. Thanks to the council and its CEED Lending division, she acquired crucial financing to capitalize on her opportunity with Lowe's.
Dondre Geter, CEO of Boxx Boys Moving, exemplifies how the Great Lakes WBC approaches funding differently. Rather than relying solely on traditional success metrics, the council focuses on the applicant's potential and business performance. Geter received funding due to his extensive experience in the moving industry, which he had successfully operated for nearly a decade.
National Recognition and Accolades
The achievements of the Great Lakes WBC are underscored by its recent honors from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The council has been recognized with three prestigious awards, including being named the Michigan Women’s Business Center of Excellence and the National Women’s Business Center of the Year. These accolades speak not only to the council’s remarkable history but also to its unwavering commitment to enhancing the entrepreneurial landscape for women.
Michelle Richards, the founder and Executive Director, remarks that these honors serve as encouragement as the organization marks its 40th anniversary. The true measure of their success, she notes, lies in the accomplishments of the entrepreneurs they support. Among these is Tiffany Klingensmith, Michigan’s Small Business Person of the Year, who has made her mark by repairing composites and applying protective coatings for industrial machinery through her company, Unconventional Solutions.
Celebration Events: Looking Back and Forward
The milestone of 40 years in service calls for a significant celebration. The Great Lakes WBC will host its 24th annual conference, featuring networking events, business development resources, and a Supplier Diversity & Awards luncheon. This event is scheduled from Monday to Wednesday, bringing together industry experts and leading women business owners to share insights and foster connections.
The anniversary dinner promises to be a highlight, showcasing the council's three SBA awards and their commitment to outstanding service. This dinner will take place on the first evening of the conference, highlighting the achievements of the organization and its participants.
Development Programs and Initiatives
The Great Lakes WBC is not only celebrating its achievements but also looking ahead. Its programs, such as LaunchU, assist aspiring entrepreneurs in realizing their business visions. CEED Lending, another initiative, offers microloans that empower small business owners to overcome financial barriers. Additionally, MentorWe connects seasoned women business owners with emerging entrepreneurs in their fields, ensuring the exchange of critical industry knowledge.
Moreover, the conference will host special programs like WEMatch, creating opportunities for certified women-owned suppliers to meet potential corporate partners and discuss future collaborations. The WEPitch competition will also encourage innovation, preparing winners for the national stage.
Strong Leadership for Ongoing Success
The success of the Great Lakes WBC can be attributed to its dedicated board of directors. With members like Executive Director Michelle Richards and President Lisa Hardin from Salesforce, the organization leverages diverse perspectives to drive meaningful change in the business community. Each board member brings unique expertise from their respective sectors, ensuring the council remains connected and responsive to the needs of women entrepreneurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mission of the Great Lakes Women's Business Council?
The council’s mission is to support underserved entrepreneurs through loans, mentorship, and valuable resources to foster business success.
How can entrepreneurs benefit from Great Lakes WBC?
Entrepreneurs can access various programs, including mentorship, financial assistance, networking opportunities, and educational resources to help grow their businesses.
What recognition has the Great Lakes WBC received?
Recently, the council has been awarded national honors for its excellence in supporting women's businesses, including being named the National Women’s Business Center of the Year.
What events are planned for the 40th anniversary celebration?
The 40th-anniversary celebration includes a conference featuring workshops, guest speakers, networking events, and an anniversary dinner to honor achievements.
Who leads the Great Lakes Women's Business Council?
The council is led by an experienced board of directors, including Executive Director Michelle Richards and other leaders from prominent organizations.
About Investors Hangout
Investors Hangout is a leading online stock forum for financial discussion and learning, offering a wide range of free tools and resources. It draws in traders of all levels, who exchange market knowledge, investigate trading tactics, and keep an eye on industry developments in real time. Featuring financial articles, stock message boards, quotes, charts, company profiles, and live news updates. Through cooperative learning and a wealth of informational resources, it helps users from novices creating their first portfolios to experts honing their techniques. Join Investors Hangout today: https://investorshangout.com/
Disclaimer: The content of this article is solely for general informational purposes only; it does not represent legal, financial, or investment advice. Investors Hangout does not offer financial advice; the author is not a licensed financial advisor. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial or investment decisions based on this article. The author's interpretation of publicly available data shapes the opinions presented here; as a result, they should not be taken as advice to purchase, sell, or hold any securities mentioned or any other investments. The author does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of any material, providing it "as is." Information and market conditions may change; past performance is not indicative of future outcomes. If any of the material offered here is inaccurate, please contact us for corrections.
Related Articles
- Bolloré Plans Strategic Buyout Offers for Its Subsidiaries
- Hydrofarm Holdings Group Set for Thriving Growth in CEA Market
- Exploring the Benefits of Investing in RSPF ETF Today
- Experience the Magic of Fall Festivities at Grande Lakes
- Supporting Future Innovators: Peak Power's $1,500 Bursary Opportunity
- Projected Growth of Hydraulic Breaker Market Reaching $3.8 Billion
- Remarkable Growth of Ball Corporation Stock Over Two Decades
- Exploring the Potential of First Trust Small Cap Growth ETF
- OCuSOFT® Clarifies Ownership of Retaine® MGD® and Advances Eye Care
- Discover the Innovative Features of JIDU's New Robocar 07
Recent Articles
- Maximus Secures $40 Million to Enhance IRS Data Management
- Surging Performance: XRP's Recent Price Surge Explained
- Cadence Incorporates Bob White as New Board Member
- Wells Fargo Expands Support for Military Families with New Leadership Role
- Insights into Market Behavior: AI Stocks and Economic Trends
- Quartile's Latest Findings Drive Retail Media Marketing Success
- Khasm Labs Expands Innovation Ecosystem with New Startups
- Cardano Shows Strong Price Growth, Surpassing Key Levels
- Cincinnati Children's Achieves Breakthrough in Organoid Therapy
- Understanding Recent Trends in Lam Research Options Trading
- AM Best Confirms Strong Financial Ratings for CBIC
- Haven Tower Group Welcomes Chris Paulitz to Advisory Board
- NovoDynamics AI Solution Enhances Dental Claim Processes
- Wrapped Bitcoin Sees 3.5% Price Surge in Latest Trading
- Revolutionizing Alcohol Sales with AI-Driven DaaS Platform
- Investors Set Their Sights on Reddit Options Activity
- Gilead Sciences: Insights from Recent Options Trading Trends
- Zambon Unveils Promising Phase 3 Study Results for NCFB Treatment
- Chainlink Surges Over 3% in Just 24 Hours
- Explore the Eco-Friendly Solar Series with Auto-Vox Innovations
- Strategic Collaboration Unveils New Opportunities for Owens & Minor
- FarmWise and RDO Equipment Co. Partner for Precision Weeding
- Exploring Trends in Trade Secret Litigation: Insights from 2024
- MSG Sports Launches Enhanced Fan Engagement with New Program
- Duke Energy's Initiative to Fund Senior Safety Ramps
- Innovative Partnership Unveils .doge Domains for the Community
- Celebration Wellness Spa Unveils Exciting Acne Bootcamp
- Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll, Jr. Unveil New Book, Ghosts of Panama
- Titan Cloud Achieves Immense Growth with New Leadership Changes
- Innovative Approaches by JETSET Pilates Transform Fitness
- Empowering Future Generations Through Philanthropy
- Radiance Lightworks Celebrates 25 Years of Creative Lighting
- CDC Foundation Launches Initiative to Enhance Public Health Data
- Market Spotlight: Summit Therapeutics and Moderna Stock Movements
- Insider Trading Highlights: Key Buys and Sales Uncovered
- Analyzing Micron Technology's Stock Performance Amid Challenges
- Momcozy Event at NYFW: Celebrating Modern Motherhood
- LBMC’s 40-Year Journey: Transforming Business and Community
- Hydrogen Fueling Station Market Forecast: Growth and Insights
- Herbicides Market Expected to Reach $63 Billion by 2034
- Recent Transactions Highlight Harvia's Market Activity
- M&A Professionals Anticipate Increased Deal Activity Soon
- Financial Strength Rating of COSCO SHIPPING Captive Insurance
- Significant Upgrade for Hotai Insurance's Credit Rating
- Ryan Honored as Top Workplace in the Consulting Sector for 2024
- Exploring Micron Stock: A Potential Buying Opportunity
- Signet Jewelers Surprises Investors With Strong Earnings Boost
- Empire State Building Celebrates AKC's Milestone Anniversary
- Fora Financial Completes Major $126.9M Asset-Backed Deal
- VIAVI Innovations Simplify Test Management with AI Automation