As we enter Women’s History Month, we are inspired by the remarkable journey of female entrepreneurs who have shaped the business landscape. Their stories of resilience, innovation, and success continue to pave the way for future generations. We celebrate LAEDA’s clients whose lives we have touched over the past 37 years. As a culmination of this history, LAEDA will be hosting a 100 Session Celebration in June, 2025 to recognize our alumni who have graduated from the 9-week program. Please take a moment to follow our facebook https://www.facebook.com/LAEDA1987 and complete the alumni form https://tinyurl.com/46xjuyv2 to stay connected and up to date about this event and other news!
The Rise of Women in Business
Women-owned businesses have experienced significant growth in recent years. Nearly 4 in 10 US businesses are now women-owned, accounting for over 14 million enterprises – a remarkable 13% increase from 2019. This surge in female entrepreneurship is reshaping the economic landscape, with women starting businesses at a faster rate than men. In fact, more than 6 in 10 women business owners launched their ventures within the last four years, compared to 5 in 10 men.
Current Landscape and Challenges
Today, women-owned employers generating over $1 million in annual revenue contribute $2.2 trillion to the US economy and provide 9.4 million jobs. However, challenges persist. Only 13.7% of employer firms earning over $1 million annually are women-owned, compared to 54.9% owned by men.
Women entrepreneurs, particularly women of color, face unique obstacles:
Limited access to capital and funding opportunities
Concentration in lower-revenue industries
Barriers to scaling their enterprises
Persistent gender biases
Empowering the Future
Despite these challenges, women entrepreneurs continue to thrive and inspire. They’re adopting digital tools at higher rates and investing more of their own money into their businesses. Support networks, educational programs, and initiatives focused on women in business are growing, providing valuable resources and mentorship opportunities.
As we honor the achievements of women entrepreneurs this month, let’s commit to fostering an inclusive business environment that empowers all entrepreneurs, regardless of gender, race, or background. By supporting and celebrating diversity in entrepreneurship, we’re not just recognizing history – we’re shaping a brighter, more equitable future for all.
To support this future, LAEDA will be hosting its 102th session of the 9-Week Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) on April 16th, 2025. We are currently recruiting for this cohort. Are you tired of your job? Do you have years of experience in your industry? Have you been wanting to start your own business? Then this is your sign to go after that dream, complete the application today at www.laeda.com/entrepreneurial-development-training-program/.
These entrepreneurs’ stories of resilience, innovation, and success continue to pave the way for future generations. We celebrate LAEDA’s clients whose lives we have touched over the past 37 years. As a culmination of this history, LAEDA will be hosting a 100 Session Celebration in June, 2025 to recognize our alumni who have graduated from the 9-week program. Please take a moment to follow our facebook https://www.facebook.com/LAEDA1987 and complete the alumni form https://tinyurl.com/46xjuyv2 to stay connected and up to date about this event and other news!