October has been officially named National Women’s Small Business Month. With 1.1 million businesses owned by women in the U.S., it’s safe to say you’ve most likely shopped or know of a small business owned by a woman. You may be a business owner yourself. Becoming a customer at these businesses is a great way to show support. Here are a few other ideas to help you take your support of women-owned businesses even further.

Become a Mentor 

As a woman business owner, one of the best ways to show your support is to become a mentor. Starting a business can be scary. Many people are not sure where to begin and this can ultimately hold them back from ever pursuing their dream. As a mentor, you can help other women fulfill their dreams of beginning their own small businesses. 

Advocate for Women in Business

In addition to being a mentor, being an advocate for women in business is another great way to show your support and is something that you can be a part of even if you don’t own your own business. By sharing positive facts and success stories, whether it be online or by word of mouth, you can encourage and empower other younger women to fulfill their goals of owning a business. 

Network with other Women

It’s always a great idea to connect with other women and build strong relationships. Even if you don’t have plans to start your own business, being able to create meaningful connections with other women is a great way to learn and even help others in ways you might not have been able to before. 

Support a Cause 

Another great way to show your support is to invest and donate to organizations that help underprivileged women start their own businesses. There are many nonprofits that you can look into to find ways to help other women be successful, whether it be through education or providing start-up funds to get things going. 

Become a Woman-owned Business 

Last, but certainly not least, you can become a part of the club and become a certified woman-owned business yourself. One great tool is the Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contract Program, which helps women get an opportunity to secure government contracts. 

 

No matter how you choose to support those around you, the most important thing is to uplift and empower. So, don’t forget to get out there and celebrate National Women’s Small Business Month this October!