I just returned from the Center for Women’s Business Research Board meeting in Chicago which included a joint meeting with the Leadership Council.  As a researcher in women’s entrepreneurship, founder of the Diana Project,  and Division Chair of Entrepreneurship at Babson College, I was most heartened to learn of the progress that women business owners are making in growing their ventures. Three things got my attention:

First- we celebrated the new research study released by the Center about the impact of women business owners on the economy.  The research was sponsored by WalMart and for the first time, used a sophisticated and rigorous econometric forecasting tool, Implan.  The research was conducted by two high profile economists, Dr. Hassan Pordeli and Mr. Peter Wynkoop, who have used this methodology frequently in the past.  This study was based on a random geographic sample of women business owners and quantified the economic impact of women business owners.  The forecasting model showed that women created  $11.8 million jobs and are responsible for more than $1.2 trillion in sales.  This is very good news!

Second-the SMU forum for minority female entrepreneurs held in September was a smashing success! More than 120 women attended the Accelerating Growth Forum to discuss how to overcome their biggest challenges to business growth.   Participants gained insights into strategies and had the opportunity to network.

Finally, we had a great discussion about how the Center will use social media to expand and disseminate our research and connect women business owners around the country.  Lena West  of  Xyno Media led our discussion. A continuing success is the Center’s w-bizinsight panel where women business owners have the opportunity to share their opinions, successes and thoughts on current issues through this on-line survey.

After this exciting two day meeting, I am convinced that the opportunities for women business owners are better than ever!

Submitted by: Candida Brush, Chair, Entrepreneurship Division, Babson College and Vice-Chair, Research, Center for Women’s Business Research