AI Wonderland: 10 Free Tools Turning Women Entrepreneurs into Tech Superstars!
The future is NOW! In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, women need to embrace these innovative and free artificial intelligence (AI) tools, democratizing access to cutting-edge solutions. Here are ten impactful ways in which free AI tools, including ChatGPT and DALL·E, WILL empower WOMEN in the business world: Data-Driven Decision Making: AI Tool: ChatGPT ChatGPT, powered by OpenAI, assists in analyzing data and extracting valuable insights. Women entrepreneurs can engage in conversation with ChatGPT to gain a better understanding of market trends, customer behavior, and strategic decision-making. Personalized Marketing Strategies: AI Tool: Mailchimp Mailchimp, a free AI-driven tool, helps women entrepreneurs create personalized marketing campaigns. By analyzing data, it tailors messages to specific demographics, enhancing the effectiveness of outreach efforts. Virtual Assistants for Efficiency: AI Tool: Google Assistant (Integrated into Android devices) / Siri (Built-in on Apple devices) Virtual assistants like Google Assistant and Siri, although not exclusively AI, use machine learning elements. They help women entrepreneurs manage tasks, set reminders, and streamline daily activities, boosting overall efficiency. Enhanced Customer Support: AI Tool: Zendesk (Free Version) The free version of Zendesk utilizes AI to provide automated responses to customer inquiries. This ensures that women entrepreneurs can offer seamless customer support even with limited resources. Financial Management and Planning: AI Tool: QuickBooks (Free Version) QuickBooks, in its free version, automates basic accounting tasks. This aids women entrepreneurs in managing finances efficiently and gaining insights into their business’s financial health. AI-Powered E-commerce Recommendations: AI Tool: ChatGPT (Integration Example) Integrating ChatGPT into an e-commerce platform can offer personalized product recommendations based on customer interactions. This helps women entrepreneurs enhance the shopping experience without additional costs. Recruitment and Talent Acquisition: AI Tool: LinkedIn Talent Solutions (Free Version) LinkedIn Talent Solutions, in its free version, assists in finding potential hires by matching candidates with job requirements. This aids women entrepreneurs in building diverse and skilled teams on a budget. Cybersecurity for Business Protection: AI Tool: Darktrace (Free Trial) While Darktrace offers a free trial, it’s a powerful tool for cybersecurity. Women entrepreneurs can utilize this trial period to enhance their business’s protection against cyber threats. AI in Social Media Management: AI Tool: Hootsuite (Free Version) Hootsuite’s free version allows women entrepreneurs to automate social media posts, analyze engagement metrics, and schedule content. This aids in maintaining a strong online presence without additional costs. Health and Wellness Support: AI Tool: Fitbit (Free Version) Fitbit, offering a free version, provides insights into physical health and sleep patterns. Women entrepreneurs can use this tool to support their well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Ladies, you must embrace and leverage free AI tools such as ChatGPT and DALL·E, along with others like Mailchimp and QuickBooks, provides women entrepreneurs with accessible and powerful resources. These tools empower them to make data-driven decisions, enhance customer experiences, and efficiently manage various aspects of their businesses without breaking the bank!
Fearless Fempreneurs: 20 Empowering Tips for Every Woman Entrepreneur!
Fearless Fempreneurs 20 Empowering Tips for Every Woman Entrepreneur! In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, women are actively contributing to change, shattering ceilings, overcoming barriers, and making a lasting impact across various industries. Here are 20 insightful tips from the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization, thoughtfully presented to inspire and guide the next generation of female business leaders: 1) Step Up and Speak Up: Claim credit for your achievements. Surround yourself with inspiring women allies; their energy is contagious. 2) Choose Your Investors Wisely: Pick investors who align with your vision. Understand what your potential investors expect from the partnership. 3) Build a Robust Network: Make connections that matter. Be the expert in your field and complement your weaknesses with a stellar team. 4) Embrace Resilience and Persistence: Be strong, work hard, and bounce back. Treat the “glass ceiling” as a challenge to break through, not an obstacle to stop you. 5) Own Your Power: Take a seat at any table with confidence. Embrace your uniqueness and contribute boldly. 6) Advocate for Working Mothers: Push for flexibility; it benefits everyone. Strive for a work-life balance that fuels long-term success. 7) Balancing Work and Relationships: Juggle work and relationships strategically. Admit what you don’t know, and seek advice from those who do. 8) Assume Acceptance and Be Fearless: Assume your ideas will be accepted. Fearlessly pursue your goals, and don’t forget to laugh along the way. 9) Clarity in Vision: Navigate conflicting advice with a clear vision. Use “I” to proudly showcase your successes and decisions. 10) Approach the Marketplace as a Businessperson: Project professionalism in every business interaction. Politely decline what doesn’t align with your vision. 11) Ignore Slights and Take the High Road: Brush off negativity; focus on building your empire. Believe in your abilities, dream big, and persevere through challenges. 12) Find Your Confident Voice: Seek partners who uplift and respect you. Drop the guilt; focus on respect, integrity, and character. 13) Seek Knowledge and Mentorship: Be a perpetual learner; surround yourself with brilliance. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 14) Believe in Yourself and Be Purpose-Driven: Trust your instincts; be passionate. Keep your purpose at the forefront; it guides your journey. 15) Stay True to Yourself: Surround yourself with brilliance; acknowledge your strengths. Pride should be in strategy, not an obstacle. 16) Persistence and Hard Work: Persist through challenges and build a supportive network. Expect excellence, not limitations. 17) Develop Hard Skills: Acquire diverse skills to run your business effectively. Hard work has no substitute; embrace the grind. 18) Craft Opportunities for Yourself: Clearly define your goals and mold opportunities accordingly. Failure is a part of the journey, not the end. 19) Embrace Every Opportunity: Seize every chance that comes your way. Surround yourself with brilliance, and be unapologetically yourself. 20) Persist, Persevere, Prevail: Persistence is your ally; determination paves your path. Quality work and ethical practices build an enduring legacy. These tips, straight from the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization, serve as a beacon for aspiring female entrepreneurs. So, embrace the journey, celebrate your uniqueness, and let these insights propel you towards unparalleled success!
Rise and Shine: 10 Tips for Women Entrepreneurs to Spark Success in the New Year
Rise and Shine: 10 Tips for Women Entrepreneurs to Spark Success in the New Year As the new year dawns, women entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to celebrate their achievements, set new goals, and embrace the journey ahead. Here are 10 tips to make the most of the upcoming year while remembering the importance of self-care, growth, and resilience. Reflect on Achievements: Take a moment to reflect on the successes and milestones achieved in the past year. Celebrate both big and small victories, acknowledging the hard work that led to those accomplishments. Set Empowering Goals: Outline clear and empowering goals for the upcoming year. Whether it’s expanding your business, launching a new product, or enhancing your leadership skills, set objectives that challenge and inspire you. Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with a strong network of mentors, peers, and allies who can provide guidance, support, and encouragement. A supportive community can be a powerful asset in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Prioritize Self-Care: Running a business can be demanding, but don’t forget to prioritize self-care. Ensure you have a healthy work-life balance, take breaks when needed, and engage in activities that rejuvenate your mind and body. Celebrate Collaborations: Acknowledge the power of collaboration. Celebrate partnerships and collaborations that have contributed to your business’s success. Consider forging new alliances in the coming year to amplify your impact. Embrace Adaptability: Entrepreneurship is a journey of constant adaptation. Embrace change with a positive mindset, recognizing that challenges are opportunities for growth. Cultivate a flexible approach to navigate the evolving business landscape. Invest in Continuous Learning: Commit to ongoing learning and development. Attend workshops, conferences, and courses to stay updated on industry trends and acquire new skills. Knowledge is a key asset in the entrepreneurial world. Champion Diversity and Inclusion: Foster a diverse and inclusive workplace environment. Recognize the value of different perspectives and experiences. Building a diverse team contributes to innovation and strengthens your business’s overall resilience. Express Gratitude: Take time to express gratitude to those who have supported you on your entrepreneurial journey. Whether it’s your team, customers, or collaborators, acknowledging their contributions creates a positive and connected business community. Celebrate Yourself: Finally, celebrate yourself. Recognize your strength, resilience, and the unique qualities that make you a successful entrepreneur. Treat yourself with kindness and take pride in the impact you’re making in the business world. As you step into the new year, remember that each day brings new opportunities for growth and success. By celebrating your achievements and embracing the lessons learned, you’ll empower yourself to make #WEDO2024 a remarkable year for your entrepreneurial journey. Cheers to a year filled with positivity, impact, and continued success!
Business Insider: Sue Wagner, Muffy MacMillan Denounce Gender Gap in Funding at UN Summit
Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization celebrated its 10th anniversary last month with a summit of women at the top of their games. Founded by the ever-optimistic Wendy Diamond, WEDO aims to uplift women in business. She hosted the summit at the UN headquarters in Manhattan on November 17, two days before Women’s Entrepreneurship Day. The summit’s speakers and panelists reflected on the progress they’ve made while also discussing ongoing and emerging obstacles, such as the gender gap in funding or the wave of anti-DEI bills and laws sweeping across the country. The celebration drew top dogs who dispensed their entrepreneurial advice, as well as up-and-comers who pitched their business ideas. Here are some of the big names who attended. Sue Wagner, a cofounder and former vice chairman of the investment firm BlackRock, discussed part of her origin story during the summit. She said that two of the firm’s eight original founders in 1988 were women, which was “unheard of then” and is still rare today. “In this room, we are reminded how important it is to have role models and to be role models, to show up and be visible, and insist on equal and equitable opportunities,” Wagner said. “Women’s rights and affirmative action are under assault here and around the world. DEI shaming has taken root, threatening hard-won progress. Oppression persists, and violent heinous crimes against women fill the headlines. Let us not forget that women’s roles are human rights and redouble our efforts to support all women.” Fran Weissler spoke of her experience as a legendary Broadway producer alongside her husband, Barry. The pair produced “Chicago,” turning a production that had “failed in the past” into a hit, Weissler said. “We were the sole producers, and it literally — professionally and, obviously, economically — changed our lives. So it’s been a long ride and Barry and I have enjoyed every single minute of it,” Weissler said. Despite her success, Weissler, who is 95, had some surprising advice for a group of women all seeking to grow their businesses: It doesn’t matter as much as forging and maintaining meaningful relationships. “All that really matters actually is who you love and who loves you,” she said. Martha “Muffy” MacMillan, one of the billionaire heirs to Cargill, the global agriculture business, reflected on a “shared commitment to the empowerment of women and girls around the globe” and the enduring gender gap in funding. “Even still, we have more work to do because today, women around the world continue to face significant economic and social barriers, are often undervalued for our ideas and contributions, and women’s potential in our communities and economies is often left untapped,” MacMillan said. “That is not only ethically and morally wrong, it’s counterproductive to building a more vibrant and inclusive global economy.” Among the featured entrepreneurs was Nancy G. Brinker, the founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, which is among the top breast cancer awareness and research organizations. After losing her sister to breast cancer, Brinker founded the organization in 1982 after promising to work to find a cure. The Susan G. Komen organization has since invested over $1 billion in breast cancer research, according to its website. Reflecting on the organization’s impact, Brinker said it had done “a lot of work.” “Applying it is what we need to do now,” she said. Jenny Just, who made Forbes‘ 2021 list of the 400 richest people in America, talked about founding Poker Power, a company that teaches women and girls how to play poker, which in turn — Just says — teaches them negotiating skills and how to take risks. “What I’ve learned over more than 25 years in business is the biggest thing between where women are today and where they want to be requires taking a risk. Specifically, taking risks around money,” Just said. A few men also shared the stage at the summit, including Marc Lore, the serial entrepreneur and former CEO of Walmart eCommerce in the United States. He talked about his effort to mentor women-founded startups on fundraising. “I think the idea’s there. The drive is there. Access to capital seems to be a little bit tilted, not in the female direction,” Lore said. “One way to help is by actually investing. But I’m not investing to help. I’m investing because they’re incredible entrepreneurs. And I think the business is incredible, and I can’t believe they wouldn’t get funded otherwise.” Mary Ann Thompson-Frenk co-founded The Memnosyne Institute, a nonprofit that helps preserve indigenous cultures and alliances, Forbes New York reported. Castro said on Instagram after the event that she has worked with many women-led organizations over the years. “While all are good intentioned, I often find one of the things holding both women and minorities back is the belief in the fallacy that there is only room for one of us at the top when the opposite is the truth: Empower your network and lift others up and you empower your own positioning,” Thompson-Frenk wrote. Trixy Castro, who has founded, sold, and invested in numerous companies over her career, founded TRX Capital, a company that focuses on real estate investments. Castro, a Forbes Council Member (a prestigious, invite-only club for industry executives), wrote a list of tips for entrepreneurs in August. She advised them to be honest with themselves and their investors about their accomplishments, mission, and capabilities while staying flexible and focused. Loreen Arbus, a disability rights activist and former cable TV executive, hosted the summit’s after-party at her home, which Diamond thanked her for on Facebook. “A sincere thank you extends to our outstanding board member, Loreen Arbus, for graciously hosting this event. Gratitude to all who played a part in turning this dream into reality, creating opportunities for disadvantaged and impoverished women to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys. Truly grateful!” Diamond said. The summit also reached across generations. A class of young girls with disabilities presented the summit’s honorees with hand-drawn awards. And on November 29, the organization celebrated #ChooseWOMEN Wednesday to encourage closing the gender wage gap. “It’s up to us not just to close that gap,” a WEDO spokesperson told Business
A Thanksgiving Toast to Women Entrepreneurs: 10 Ways to Celebrate Your Journey
Woohoo! As the leaves paint the world in shades of gold and the air takes on a crisp embrace, Thanksgiving graces us with warmth, gratitude, and a chance to reflect. For vibrant women entrepreneurs like us, this festive season carries a profound significance—it’s not merely about turkey and pumpkin pie; it’s a celebration of our entrepreneurial odyssey, a toast to our tenacity, and a moment to embrace the vibrant community we’ve cultivated. Here are ten ways to make your Thanksgiving as a woman entrepreneur uniquely meaningful: Reflect on Your Triumphs Take a pause to savor the milestones your business conquered this year. Celebrate the grand victories and the little triumphs alike. This reflection extends beyond professional success; it’s about personal growth, resilience, and the remarkable journey that brought you to this point. Express Gratitude to Your Support System Thanksgiving provides the ideal backdrop to express gratitude to those who’ve stood by you—be it family, friends, employees, or mentors. Personalized thank-you notes, small tokens of appreciation, or a heartfelt verbal acknowledgment can work wonders. Give Back to the Community For many entrepreneurs, philanthropy is a guiding principle. Use this time to give back, whether through charitable donations, volunteering at a local shelter, or championing a cause close to your business values. This act not only supports the community but also fills your heart with fulfillment. Network with a Thanksgiving Twist Thanksgiving-themed networking events offer a delightful and festive avenue to connect with fellow entrepreneurs. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a more formal affair, these meet-ups foster a sense of community, shared experiences, and the building of a supportive network amid a relaxed and festive ambiance. Strike a Balance Between Work and Celebration For entrepreneurs, finding the equilibrium between work commitments and personal time is crucial. Set boundaries to ensure you relish Thanksgiving with your loved ones. Remember, taking time off to recharge is vital for your well-being and can breathe new life into your creativity and productivity. Begin a Thanksgiving Tradition Contemplate initiating a new Thanksgiving tradition that mirrors your entrepreneurial journey. Whether it’s a special meal, a family activity, or a community event, traditions forge lasting memories and offer a delightful way to celebrate your achievements annually. Infuse Gratitude into Your Business Weave the theme of gratitude into your business, whether through a special Thanksgiving offer for your customers, an appreciation event for your employees, or a social media campaign sharing your business journey’s thankful moments. Plan for the Year Ahead Use this moment to envision your goals for the coming year. Outline preliminary plans and let excitement build for what lies ahead. Indulge in Self-Care Thanksgiving is the perfect juncture for some well-deserved self-care. Engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you—be it a spa day, losing yourself in a good book, or simply reveling in a tranquil moment. Share Your Story Thanksgiving revolves around storytelling. Share your entrepreneurial journey—whether through a blog post, a social media update, or at the Thanksgiving table. Let your story of resilience and success inspire others. As we revel in Thanksgiving, let’s not forget—it’s more than just about turkey and trimmings. It’s a time to embrace gratitude, celebrate our entrepreneurial voyage, and relish the company of those who matter most. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at WEDO!
Discover the 10 Wonderful Reasons to Become a Female Entrepreneur – You’ll Love It!
Are you considering the exhilarating path of female entrepreneurship? It’s a journey filled with endless possibilities and extraordinary rewards. In this article, we’ll explore ten fantastic reasons why becoming a female entrepreneur is an experience you’ll absolutely adore. Empowerment: Crafting Your Destiny Becoming a female entrepreneur is all about empowerment. It’s the opportunity to seize control of your own destiny. No more boundaries or restrictions – you shape your future, making decisions that align perfectly with your dreams. Flexibility: Balancing Life and Work As a female entrepreneur, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to strike a harmonious balance between work and life. It’s a chance to spend quality time with loved ones while pursuing your passions. Creative Freedom: Expressing Your Unique Vision One of the most delightful aspects of entrepreneurship is creative freedom. You have the power to bring your unique vision to life, impacting your community and the world. Empathy and Connection: Building Authentic Relationships Women often excel in building authentic connections with clients and partners. Your empathy and communication skills set you apart in the business world, fostering lasting, meaningful relationships. Mentorship and Support: Thriving in a Community The entrepreneurial community is renowned for its support and mentorship. Female entrepreneurs often find guidance and inspiration from those who’ve walked a similar path. Financial Independence: Securing Your Future Starting your own business can lead to financial independence, ensuring a secure future for yourself and your loved ones. It’s a chance to create a lasting legacy. Diverse Perspectives: Driving Innovation Diversity is at the heart of innovation. As a female entrepreneur, you bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table, propelling positive change in your industry. Making a Difference: Impacting the World Entrepreneurship allows you to make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s through sustainable practices, philanthropy, or innovative products, you can create a positive influence on the world. Learning and Growth: Constantly Evolving Being a female entrepreneur means continuous learning and growth. You’ll face challenges, acquire new skills, and evolve into a stronger, more confident individual. Leaving a Legacy: Inspiring Generations By becoming a female entrepreneur, you set an inspiring example for future generations. You show that with determination and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams. Let’s have some fun celebrating these remarkable facets of female entrepreneurship, and don’t forget about joining us – Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO)! It’s not just an organization; it’s a force for good, dedicated to empowering and celebrating women intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs alike! Come join our lively movement, and together, we’ll transform the world into a place where women entrepreneurs are celebrated, supported, and empowered to chase their wildest dreams. Your exciting future is right around the corner, all thanks to the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day movement!
EmpowerHERment: 10 Ways to Celebrate Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Every Day!
Are you ready to make a difference? It’s time to #JOINWEDO, Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO) – a global movement dedicated to celebrating, supporting, and empowering women in business. We believe that the world becomes a better place when women entrepreneurs thrive. With Women’s Entrepreneurship Day officially proclaimed on November 19, we invite you to support and empower women in business on that day and every day. Join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and equal business landscape! 1. Learn About the Origins Women’s Entrepreneurship Day (WED) was founded by Wendy Diamond in 2013. Its inception was a part of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO), a non-governmental organization that aims to empower women entrepreneurs globally. This day has grown from a small-scale event into a global movement to celebrate, support, and empower women in business. Women’s Entrepreneurship Day is not just a day on the calendar; it’s a powerful force for change. WEDO’s commitment to advancing gender equality in business and society has profoundly impacted countless women entrepreneurs worldwide. It has created a platform for women to share their stories, inspire others, and drive change in the business landscape. 2. Attend WEDO Events One of the most impactful ways to celebrate Women’s Entrepreneurship Day is by attending events organized in your area. These events typically feature prominent women entrepreneurs, business leaders, and motivational speakers who share their insights and experiences. Additionally, consider creating your own Women’s Entrepreneurship Day event or gathering where you can invite local women entrepreneurs to share their stories and insights. This can be a fantastic way to support and empower women who aspire to become entrepreneurs in your community. The impact of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day extends beyond a single day. It’s a catalyst for change, an opportunity to learn, connect, and inspire. By celebrating, learning about the origins, and participating in events, you contribute to the global movement to empower and uplift women in business. Together, we can make a significant difference in the entrepreneurial landscape, supporting women as they shape the future of business. 3. Support Women-Owned Businesses On Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, make a conscious effort to support women-owned businesses. Shop at female-owned stores, dine at women-run restaurants or invest in products and services offered by women entrepreneurs. 4. Mentorship and Networking Consider offering your expertise as a mentor to aspiring women entrepreneurs. Networking with other women in business can provide valuable support and connections for those just starting their entrepreneurial journey. 5. Share Inspiring Stories Use social media and other platforms to share success stories of women entrepreneurs who have significantly impacted their industries. Highlight their achievements and the challenges they’ve overcome. 6. Educational Workshops Participate in or organize educational workshops focusing on various aspects of entrepreneurship, such as business planning, marketing, and financial management. These workshops can empower aspiring women entrepreneurs with essential knowledge. 7. Support Female-Led Nonprofits Many organizations supporting women in business can benefit from donations or volunteers. Find a nonprofit aligned with your interests and contribute to their cause. 8. Encourage Young Women Inspire the next generation of female entrepreneurs by visiting schools or colleges and sharing your experiences. Encourage young women to explore entrepreneurship and pursue their dreams. 9. Create a Business Showcase Host a showcase of local women-owned businesses. This can be an excellent platform for female entrepreneurs to display their products or services and gain visibility in the community. 10. Advocate for Equal Opportunities Use this day to raise awareness about the importance of equal opportunities for women in the business world. Advocate for policies that promote gender equality and support women in entrepreneurship. Your involvement is crucial to our success. By supporting Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, you’re not just celebrating a day but contributing to a brighter future for women in business. Together, we can break barriers, shatter ceilings, and uplift aspiring women entrepreneurs worldwide. Join the movement, inspire change, and let’s make every day Women’s Entrepreneurship Day! Find us here.
Business Insider: Entrepreneur and Socialite Wendy Diamond Shares How She Did It
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Wendy Diamond, the founder of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization and Animal Fair Media. It has been edited for length and clarity. I was always an entrepreneur. In second grade, I was selling bubblegum and pencils. I think what forced me into becoming an entrepreneur is I was really never good at school. When I graduated, no one told me I had to network. I sent out a hundred resumes, and no one offered me a job. That pushed me to become an entrepreneur. When you think about everything in life as a positive, you’re going to realize that an obstacle taught you something to take you where you’re supposed to be. My dog Lucky was the inspiration for me to create Animal Fair when nobody was talking about adoption or rescue. I created the first media company to bring celebrities and pop culture to the animal rescue world. If everyone learned you could adopt versus buy, and you could adopt any breed, any size, any age, people would choose to adopt. We had all these celebrities on our covers, like Renée Zellweger and Beyoncé, each with their dogs, bringing awareness to the importance of adoption. Now, if I don’t bring my dog somewhere when I’m at a serious event with very important people, someone will come up to me and say, “Where’s your dog?” It’s so funny. I always tell people I have the spirit of a 20-year-old and the mind of a 90-year-old. I credit all my dogs for just helping me through everything and keeping me sane, normal, and happy. How a stalker changed everything for me My whole life has been happenstance. In 2011, I had a stalker who ruined my entire life in the animal rescue world. She created anonymous email addresses to defame me. She stalked me. That lasted for five years. At the time, I was on a lot of network TV shows, and all they wanted to talk about was the drama. I didn’t want to be public anymore. I had millions of followers. I was on the Today Show and CBS as the pet person. I never got into it to be famous or to be in the media. I did it to support animal rescue and to bring awareness to the millions of animals euthanized. During that time, I was so busy. I was taking care of my father, and when he died, I made a commitment to go to two new countries every year. I went to Honduras on a journey that literally changed my entire life. I stayed at a boutique hotel in the jungle, and I asked the hotel manager what there was to do in the area besides bird watching. He suggested I visit a local organization that provided micro-loans to impoverished women to start their own businesses. It was 2013, and nobody was talking about women entrepreneurs or women in business. I was supposed to spend a couple of hours there, but I spent days there and met with all the women entrepreneurs in the community. One woman sticks out in my mind: a 72-year-old woman who had three little kids. Her daughter died, and the husband ran off, so she was responsible for three little grandchildren. She got a microloan, opened up her one-room window in her hut with the dirt floor, and sold Cokes and toothpaste from where she was living with her grandchildren. That enabled her to pay a dollar a month for those kids to go to school. Helping others help others When women earn money, 90% of it goes to educate their children and provide for their families, which uplifts the entire community. When women are empowered in business, they have self-confidence and dignity. They don’t allow human rights violations. At that time in 2013, only 1% of venture dollars went toward women founders, and I think less than 20% of boards at that time had women on them. I’m very creative in that I realize everybody in the world wants to help. You just have to make it easy for them. When I brought pop culture into the animal rescue world with Animal Fair, we were able to show why it’s so great to adopt. I thought the same thing about the women’s movement. If I create a day, we’ll create the conversation. That’s when I went to, at the time, Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio, and we officially got Women’s Entrepreneurship Day proclaimed an official day on November 19. Then, we launched at the United Nations in 2014, and bigger companies like JP Morgan, Dell, and MasterCard came in. That’s where you start to see companies having women’s movements and summits by building that awareness of the importance of empowering women in business. Don’t get me wrong, we’re a capitalist society. Giving a hand up — not a handout — is important. You also have to have perseverance because you’re going to go through rough encounters. It’s always about the purpose. When things got rough, and believe me, things get rough, all I could think about was that 72-year-old woman with those three little kids selling Cokes and toothpaste and living in a one-room hut with a dirt floor. I don’t have problems. Click here to see the full Business Insider article!
10 Tips for Women Entrepreneurs Balancing Business and Back-to-School Season
As the school bells ring and the back-to-school season approaches, women entrepreneurs face the unique challenge of juggling their businesses alongside the responsibilities of parenthood. The balancing act might seem daunting, but with the right strategies in place, it’s possible to excel on both fronts. Here are 10 invaluable tips to empower women entrepreneurs as they navigate this demanding period: Title 2: Thriving as a Mompreneur: A Guide to Success During the Back-to-School Rush The back-to-school season offers a fresh start not only for children but also for mompreneurs aiming to achieve remarkable success in both business and family life. By implementing these 10 practical tips, women entrepreneurs can turn this period of transition into an opportunity for growth and prosperity. Title 3: Conquering the Entrepreneurial Journey: 10 Back-to-School Tips for Women in Business For women entrepreneurs, the back-to-school season signifies more than just a change in routine – it’s a chance to refine the art of balancing business endeavors with family commitments. Here are 10 expert tips to help women in business thrive during this dynamic period. Tip 1: Embrace Time Management Techniques Efficiently managing your time is paramount. Utilize techniques like the Pomodoro method or time-blocking to structure your work hours and ensure ample time for family. Tip 2: Delegate and Outsource Recognize that you can’t do it all alone. Delegate tasks in your business and consider outsourcing non-core functions to focus on high-impact activities. Tip 3: Prioritize Self-Care Taking care of yourself is essential for both your well-being and your business. Dedicate time for exercise, relaxation, and pursuing hobbies that rejuvenate your spirit. Tip 4: Set Realistic Goals Establish achievable goals for your business during the back-to-school season. This prevents overwhelm and provides a clear roadmap for progress. Tip 5: Communicate Openly Discuss your business commitments and schedule with your family. Transparent communication fosters understanding and support from your loved ones. Tip 6: Leverage Technology Utilize technology tools to streamline your business operations. Project management software, virtual assistants, and communication platforms can boost efficiency. Tip 7: Create a Dedicated Workspace Designate a space at home for work that minimizes distractions. This helps you focus during work hours and switch into ‘mom mode’ when needed. Tip 8: Network and Seek Support Connect with other women entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Online and local communities offer support, advice, and a sense of belonging. Tip 9: Flexible Planning Stay flexible in your planning to accommodate unexpected situations that may arise in both your business and family life. Tip 10: Celebrate Small Wins Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement keeps you motivated and fosters a healthy work-life balance. The back-to-school season can be an empowering time for women entrepreneurs to excel in their businesses while nurturing their families. By implementing these 10 practical tips, women can embrace their dual roles and find success, fulfillment, and happiness in both realms. Remember, finding balance is an ongoing journey, and each step taken brings you closer to mastering the art of being a successful mompreneur.
