What Is the Women’s Business Alliance and How Can It Help You?

The WBA is a program of the Entrepreneur Fund, and a certified Women’s Business Center of the U.S. Small Business Administration. The WBA provides specialized advising, training, networking and access to capital for entrepreneurs across our region. 

The WBA is managed by two directors, Sandi Larson and Sandy Voigt, serving the northern and central county regions respectively. Larson and Voigt support entrepreneurs at every stage of their small business by designing and facilitating programs catered to address the unique challenges of business ownership. These programs connect business owners to experts, mentors and peers to build their network, knowledge and support team.  

The WBA provides opportunities for professional growth through various programs and events that: 

Develop authentic relationships built on shared success and accountability: 

In the WBA Business Masterminds, participants join a collective of powerful, driven, innovative business owners who all want to see you rise to reach your goals. This small group of business owners and a certified business coach meet once a month over six months to help you find solutions to your business challenges and hold you accountable to overcome them. Work together to brainstorm, problem solve, understand and apply your strengths and develop impactful relationships that may last a lifetime. While the program focuses on supporting women entrepreneurs, all are welcome to apply.

Create opportunities to close gender gaps:

In partnership with Duluth Running Company, proceeds from the Duluth Women’s 10 Mile race in Duluth, Minnesota, go to the Bridging the Gap Fund, which provides entrepreneurs in the region the resources to build and grow sustainable businesses. The Fund provides business owners accessibility to participate in WBA events and programs, like the WBA Business Masterminds, through scholarship opportunities. 

Provide supportive feedback on business ideas or challenges: 

Think of a pitch competition, but without the competition. The She Leads Conference and pitch event pairs entrepreneurs with a small group of local experts who give instant, supportive and thoughtful feedback for their business. As current or aspiring entrepreneurs, She Leads participants walk away with ideas, encouragement, and new perspectives about how to solve a business challenge or take their business to the next level. Learn more about She Leads.

Contact us to learn more

Locally-owned businesses contribute to their communities by providing employment opportunities and stimulating local economies through increased spending. By supporting these businesses and providing the owners with the working capital and resources they need to continue to build and grow, we help foster vibrant communities across our region.  

For inquiries about the Women's Business Alliance and its programs, please reach out to us at info@efund.org or learn more here.