For 29 years, the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) has been a trusted partner for women entrepreneurs throughout Connecticut. As the state’s only organization dedicated specifically to supporting women in business, WBDC offers free classes, personalized business advising, and small business grant opportunities to help aspiring and established entrepreneurs grow sustainable businesses. The impact of this work reaches far beyond individual business owners, contributing to vibrant main streets and a stronger Connecticut economy.
How long have you been operating in the community? 29 years
In one or two sentences, what is your mission? The mission of the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) is to support economic prosperity for women and strengthen communities through entrepreneurial and financial education services that create and grow sustainable jobs and businesses across Connecticut.
What products, services, or programs do you offer? WBDC provides classes for entrepreneurs at all stages of business, with topics including (but not limited to) business planning, accounting and bookkeeping, marketing, social media, and much more. We have a team of experienced business advisors who work with our clients to face the challenges and opportunities that come with entrepreneurship and provide the information, resources and confidence to take the next step. Finally, we offer several small business grant opportunities to help CT entrepreneurs reach their goals. The majority of WBDC programs and services are offered at no cost.
What makes your organization unique? WBDC is the only resource specifically for women entrepreneurs – although a small percentage of our clients are men.
What do you enjoy most about the work you do? It is inspiring to meet the entrepreneurs we work with and hear about their journeys.
What do you value most about the community you serve? I’m inspired by the contributions our clients make to CT main streets and the CT economy.
Who do you serve, and what impact do you hope to make? We serve aspiring and established CT women entrepreneurs, and we hope to provide the resources they need to create and grow businesses in our state.
How can the community support you right now? Spread the word! Tell the women entrepreneurs you know about the services offered free of charge through WBDC. Help WBDC continue to help entrepreneurs in our state by donating on our website at https://ctwbdc.org/support-wbdc/donate/. And, of course, shop local at women-owned businesses!
