National Women’s History Month in 2025 embraces the theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations”—a tribute to women who have profoundly influenced society through education, mentorship, and leadership. As we celebrate the achievements of women throughout history, it is essential to highlight the vital role Women-Owned Businesses (WOBs)play in advancing this legacy. These businesses not only fuel economic growth but also serve as platforms for empowerment, education, and inspiration.
The Legacy of Women-Owned Businesses
Women-owned businesses are more than economic entities—they are catalysts for change. Across industries, women entrepreneurs have demonstrated resilience, creativity, and a commitment to lifting others. Their contributions align seamlessly with the 2025 theme by:
- Educating Communities: Many women-owned businesses prioritize knowledge-sharing by offering educational resources, training programs, and workshops. For example:
- STEM-focused enterprises owned by women are inspiring young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
- Small business consultants help other women navigate entrepreneurship, creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment.
- Mentoring the Next Generation: Women business leaders often serve as mentors, shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders. Through internships, apprenticeships, and community outreach, they pass down invaluable lessons on resilience, innovation, and leadership.
- Leading by Example: Women entrepreneurs inspire others by proving that success is attainable through hard work, innovation, and collaboration. Their stories motivate young women to dream big and overcome barriers.
Contributions of Women-Owned Businesses to the 2025 Theme
1. Education as a Core Value: Women-owned businesses are driving change by integrating education into their missions. For instance:
- Women in Tech Startups: Female founders in the tech industry are actively promoting coding boot camps and digital literacy programs for underserved communities.
- Sustainability Entrepreneurs: Women in green businesses educate consumers about sustainable living, creating a ripple effect of environmental awareness.
These efforts exemplify the theme’s call for “educating and inspiring generations,” as they not only address present challenges but also prepare future leaders to tackle those yet to come.
2. Mentorship as a Business Model: Mentorship is a cornerstone of many women-owned enterprises. Programs like formal mentorship networks and entrepreneurial incubators run by women focus on uplifting emerging talent. Notable examples include:
- Veteran-Owned Women’s Businesses: These businesses often mentor fellow veterans transitioning to civilian careers, creating a support system that extends far beyond professional development.
- Women’s Business Collectives: Collaborative groups of women entrepreneurs share resources, knowledge, and opportunities, fostering collective success.
3. Creating Opportunities Through Leadership
Leadership in women-owned businesses extends beyond profits. It includes advocating for workplace diversity, championing equal pay, and creating inclusive environments where employees can thrive. These values inspire and educate future leaders about the importance of equity and collaboration.
Overcoming Challenges to Move Forward Together
While the accomplishments of women-owned businesses are worth celebrating, their journey is not without obstacles. Challenges such as access to funding, navigating male-dominated industries, and balancing work-life responsibilities persist. However, the resilience of women entrepreneurs is unmatched. They continue to rise above these barriers by building support networks, leveraging certifications like WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business), and creating inclusive spaces that uplift others.
Their perseverance mirrors the spirit of “Moving Forward Together”, as they bring their communities along with them, ensuring no one is left behind.
Spotlight: Inspiring Women-Owned Businesses
- Women in Education Consulting: Women-owned firms dedicated to reshaping education systems are providing tools and training for teachers, enhancing educational outcomes for underserved students.
- Innovative Startups in Health and Wellness: Female entrepreneurs in the health industry are designing programs to improve mental and physical well-being, emphasizing self-care and community health.
- Creative Enterprises: From women-led publishing houses to digital media firms, these businesses are sharing powerful narratives that celebrate diversity and inspire change.
How to Support Women-Owned Businesses During National Women’s History Month
- Shop Women-Owned: Use directories to find and support women-owned businesses in your area or online.
- Share Their Stories: Amplify the voices of women entrepreneurs by sharing their successes and challenges on social media.
- Mentor or Sponsor: If you’re an established professional, consider mentoring a woman entrepreneur or sponsoring a women-owned initiative.
- Collaborate: Partner with women-owned businesses to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
National Women’s History Month 2025 reminds us that progress is a collective effort. Women-owned businesses exemplify the theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,”by serving as educators, mentors, and leaders who empower others to succeed. As we celebrate this month, let us not only honor their achievements but also commit to supporting their ongoing efforts to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
In the spirit of moving forward together, let us continue to champion women entrepreneurs who inspire and educate generations to come.
Yolanda Goodloe
Consultants, Cowart, Government Contracting Consultants, PinellasSpecialty: Procurement Yolanda Goodloe has more than 20 years of experience in public service at the local and municipal levels. Early in her career, she worked as a human resources and relations professional while serving as a liaison to the business community and advocacy groups. Her prior experience includes being a human relations specialist for Lee County Government, and an equal opportunity director for the City of Fort Lauderdale. Her background combines public service and human relations experience with hands on leadership in equal opportunity, supplier diversity, business certifications programs, organizational training and development, and managing workforce diversity principles. Goodloe is the procurement specialist for the Florida PTAC at Pinellas County Economic Development. She connects businesses to resources and tools for state, local, and federal contracting opportunities. She is a Certified Procurement Professional (CPP), a Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP), and a Certified Verification Counselor. She graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor of arts in political science and history.