Highlighting Entrepreneurship and Small Business Opportunities for Women

The Michigan Women’s Commission recently hosted a roundtable event in collaboration with the Small Business Association of Michigan to shed light on entrepreneurship and small business opportunities for women in the state. This event was part of the Pathways to High Wage Jobs series, aimed at promoting avenues for women to secure high-paying jobs and educating employers on the unique challenges women face in the business world.

Cheryl Bergman, the Executive Director of the Michigan Women’s Commission, stressed the significance of this event in supporting women and advancing the state’s economic objectives. Bergman highlighted that entrepreneurship serves as a crucial pathway to financial independence and economic resilience for women in Michigan. By partnering with the Small Business Association of Michigan, the commission aims to open doors to opportunities that will empower women to establish thriving businesses, contribute to the economy, and secure high-wage jobs.

In line with LEO’s statewide workforce plan, the roundtable sought to facilitate discussions on how entrepreneurship can be a potent tool for economic empowerment and job creation, especially for women and underrepresented communities. The event brought together key stakeholders from the business community, policymakers, and aspiring entrepreneurs to exchange ideas and explore avenues for growth and success.

Kelli Saunders, the Vice President of Policy and Engagement at the Small Business Association of Michigan, echoed the importance of providing targeted support and resources to women entrepreneurs. Saunders emphasized that small businesses form the backbone of Michigan’s economy, underscoring the need to ensure that women entrepreneurs have access to the necessary tools and networks to thrive. The roundtable was viewed as a crucial step in nurturing an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefits all residents of Michigan.

During the roundtable discussion, participants delved into various topics such as access to capital, mentorship opportunities, regulatory hurdles, and strategies for scaling businesses. Attendees had the opportunity to interact directly with industry experts and policymakers, gaining valuable insights and forging connections that could help bring their business ideas to fruition.

This initiative aligns with LEO’s commitment to fostering economic growth and workforce development throughout Michigan. By promoting entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses, LEO aims to cultivate a more diverse and robust economy, offering pathways to high-wage jobs for all residents. Efforts like the roundtable series contribute to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s All-Access strategy, which aims to address structural challenges and eliminate barriers that have historically hindered individuals and businesses from reaching their full potential.

To explore resources that connect individuals and businesses with the opportunities and unique resources needed to build a better future, interested parties can visit www.michigan.gov/AllAccess. The roundtable event was a significant step towards empowering women in Michigan to pursue entrepreneurship and achieve economic success.