Entrepreneurship and Small Business Opportunities for Women Highlighted

Michigan Women’s Commission Hosted Roundtable with Small Business Association of Michigan to Highlight Pathways to entrepreneurship

LANSING, Mich.—The Michigan Women’s Commission hosted a collaborative roundtable event with the Small Business Association of Michigan to explore entrepreneurship and small business opportunities for women in Michigan. The event was part of a Pathways to High Wage Jobs series to promote pathways to high wage jobs to women and educate employers about the unique barriers they face and how they can help remove these barriers. 

Cheryl Bergman, Executive Director of the Michigan Women’s Commission, emphasized the importance of this event in supporting women and the state’s broader economic goals. "Entrepreneurship is a critical pathway to financial independence and economic resilience for women in Michigan. By partnering with the Small Business Association of Michigan, we are opening doors to opportunities that will help women create thriving businesses, contribute to the economy, and secure high-wage jobs," said Bergman.

In alignment with LEO’s statewide workforce plan, this roundtable aims to provide a platform for discussions on how entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for economic empowerment and job creation, particularly for women and underrepresented communities. Participants included key stakeholders from the business community, policymakers and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Kelli Saunders, Vice President of Policy and Engagement at the Small Business Association of Michigan, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for targeted support and resources. "Small businesses are the backbone of Michigan’s economy, and we must ensure that women entrepreneurs have access to the tools and networks they need to succeed. This roundtable is a vital step in fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefits all Michiganders," Saunders stated.

The roundtable discussion focused on a range of topics, including access to capital, mentorship opportunities, regulatory challenges, and strategies for scaling businesses. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with industry experts and policymakers to gain insights and build connections that can help turn their business ideas into reality.

This initiative aligns with LEO’s commitment to fostering economic growth and workforce development across Michigan. By encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses, LEO aims to create a more diverse and robust economy, with pathways to high-wage jobs for all residents.

Efforts like this roundtable series roll up to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s All-Access strategy to solve complex workforce problems and improve economic outcomes across the state by addressing structural challenges and removing barriers that have historically prevented people and businesses from achieving their full potential.

To explore resources that connect individuals and businesses with the opportunities and unique resources they need to build a better future, visit www.michigan.gov/AllAccess.

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Pictured from Left to Right: Roundtable Participants Kelli Saunders, Kim Bode, Charity R Dean, Amy Rencher, Kendra Quinlan, John LoPorto, and Cheryl Bergman