Charlotte Welcomes & Supports Women Owned Businesses

Charlotte Welcomes & Supports Women Owned Businesses

Tips for Starting a Business in Charlotte, NC

A recent article in the Charlotte Business Journal reported that North Carolina ranks No. 3 for growth in women entrepreneurship. As a woman and a business owner myself, this was no surprise. I have always received tremendous support from the local business community and many resources for growing my business.

The article also started that since 1997, the number of women-owned businesses nationwide has increased 68 percent. And North Carolina has outpaced that rate with 91 percent growth over the same period. 

Charlotte's competitive labor costs and factory lease costs also make it  one of the least-expensive cities in the nation to do business, according to a recent study. 

In a recent report commissioned by the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and Web.com Group Inc., it was noted that in a survey of more than 600 women business owners (WBOs) from around the nation, 89 percent% are optimistic about their overall business performance in 2014.

Women are more empowered than ever to take charge of their own destiny and not rely on someone else to promote them or validate their performance. Often needing flexible schedules to manage family life, women are also more motivated than ever to find alternative solutions to earning a living. The real estate industry definitely offers flexibility, although it's often a demanding job. But ones success is a direct result of their efforts, which is why I find it so rewarding.

There are a couple upcoming events supporting women owned businesses in the Charlotte area. These two events are a great way to network and meet other women entrepreneurs who can inspire you and offer guidance.

Bizwomen Mentoring Monday will be held on April 7 and will give participants one-on-one coaching sessions with influential female mentors in a speed-networking format. Also at that event, Lori Greiner from the TV show Shark Tank will share advice through a broadcast interview.

In June, The Charlotte Business Journal will host the 18th annual Women in Business Achievement Awards and Expo, celebrating the outstanding contributions of the area's leading businesswomen. Nominations are still being accepted until April 7th.

If you are considering starting a business in the Charlotte area, there are a wealth of resources out there. This Tool Kit from the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce is a great place to start.