The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced plans to dedicate $30 million to its Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) to foster sustainable business and support women entrepreneurs. The move includes creating a new center in the U.S. Virgin Islands to expand and provide training opportunities.
The SBA highlighted the financial commitment on its website, which plans to award over $150,000 to potential recipient organizations. This funding will endorse establishing and operating a Women’s Business Center and is part of the SBA’s broader effort to elevate women-led businesses.
The Women’s Business Center plans to use the funds to offer mentorship and resources, conduct programs, and organize workshops. In doing so, the SBA will enhance women’s entrepreneurial initiatives in collaboration with the newly established center.
The current network of Women’s Business Centers comprises 152 offices across 50 states and Puerto Rico.
SBA announces funding for female entrepreneurs
The SBA’s new funding aims to expand this network by including institutions offering virtual consulting and training services. These additions could benefit women in remote areas or those unable to travel.
Digital advancements could increase the number of successful female-led businesses, demonstrating the SBA’s commitment to inclusivity and the success of women in business.
The grants’ primary focus is on supporting women business owners seeking government contracting opportunities, providing essential development services, and extending services beyond current centers. A significant amount of money is intended to establish a new center in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Christina Hale, Deputy Administrator for the SBA’s Women’s Business Office, expressed the importance of a new WBC in increasing women’s opportunities. She emphasized the essential role of these centers in providing support, education, and resources to women starting and expanding their small businesses.
For more information regarding these grants, interested parties are encouraged to contact the SBA’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership, a long-standing supporter of female business owners established in 1979.
