NAWBO Chicago Empowers Women Business Owners Through Community
Women helping women in the business world fosters a culture of equality, diversity and empowerment, which benefits not just female entrepreneurs, but society and the economy at large. At the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Chicago Chapter, the mission is to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide. And every step taken to achieve that vision is reflected in the data.
According to NAWBO National, more than 14 million businesses are owned by women. Those businesses generate $2.7 trillion in sales and employ 12 million people.
Angie Noll, NAWBO Chicago President and principal of Reconciled Solutions, said the biggest impact on fellow women business owners simply comes from being encouraging and authentic.
“I have been most inspired by other women business owners who were not afraid to share their flaws and mistakes. Claiming ownership to both our successes and our scars is empowerment in action, we can pay it forward by participating in a safe community like NAWBO Chicago. We are each validated and bolstered in strength by engaging in the heartfelt exchange of both flubs and triumph. This is a heroine’s journey,” Noll said.
Mastermind groups is a member benefit that provides women business owners the time to connect on a regular basis with the same group of like-minded entrepreneurs. This confidential space is meant to share wins, failures, seek input and new ideas.
NAWBO Chicago member Mary Lawrence, president of Richards Graphic Communications, said creating the type of tight-knit community built through a Mastermind allows women to feel support.
“The most rewarding aspect of helping other women succeed in business is the empowerment and sense of community it fosters. When you support another woman in achieving her goals, it’s not just about her success — it's about creating a ripple effect that extends to families, communities, and even entire industries,” Lawrence said. “When another woman succeeds in business, I think it is a victory for all because it contributes to a broader shift toward equality, representation, and collective progress as a society.”
NAWBO Chicago Immediate Past President Cheryl Vargas, founder and creative-in-chief of Studio 928, said being in the position of a mentor is especially rewarding.
“One memorable experience I had was at a networking event where I met an inspiring woman navigating her own business journey. I’ve always believed in the power of collaboration and the importance of sharing resources and opportunities. Each of us walks a unique path, filled with discoveries and challenges, and it was a true joy to be able to support her in her aspirations,” Vargas said. “Witnessing her progress brought a profound sense of fulfillment, knowing that I played a small part in helping her move closer to her dreams. We created a bond through this experience as sister business owners.”
NAWBO National is honoring 49 years of impact and will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025. Secure a seat at the table and join NAWBO Chicago today. Visit the membership webpage for more information.
• Melissa Lagowski is NAWBO Chicago Executive Director, and founder and CEO of Big Buzz Idea Group.