Women-Owned Businesses

Elevating Women-Owned Enterprises

Women-owned businesses are a powerful force in the economy. Whether you're just starting out, scaling your business, or seeking connections with other women entrepreneurs, these organizations can support your journey.

Oregon Women’s Business Center

The Oregon Women's Business Center (OWBC) at Livelihood NW provides essential support to women entrepreneurs across Oregon at all stages of their journey. Powered by the SBA, OWBC offers free business advising, assistance with planning, marketing, financials, and more. Women can access discounted bookkeeping support, workshops, and referrals, and opportunities to connect with other women business owners. The OWBC does not provide loans or tax preparation, but can connect clients with trusted partners to meet their needs. Learn more.

Xcelerate Women

Xcelerate Women helps women business owners overcome systemic barriers and grow their businesses. With gender- and culturally-competent programs, Xcelerate fosters inclusive and sustainable success. Services include Navigation to assess business needs, tailored Business advising, peer mentorship, and growth education on strategy, leadership, and more. Additional support includes legal guidance from Rational Unicorn Legal Services, and trauma-informed mental wellness resources. Services are available in Spanish. Learn more.

Adelante Mujeres

Adelante Mujeres’ Empresas Small Business Development Program supports women entrepreneurs, particularly within the Latine community of Washington County, Oregon. The program offers educational services, including courses, workshops, personalized business coaching, and access to commercial kitchens for food-based businesses. Entrepreneurs can benefit from a 10-week Food-Based Business Course, technical assistance, networking opportunities, and guidance in accessing capital through programs like IDA and Kiva Zip. Graduates also gain affordable access to shared-use commercial kitchens in Forest Grove, Hillsboro, and Beaverton. With a focus on startups and businesses with fewer than five employees, Adelante Mujeres equips women with the tools to build successful, sustainable enterprises. Learn more.

Women to Women Network

The Women to Women Network connects women at all stages of life and business, from early stage to executives, fostering growth, collaboration, and lasting relationships. Members benefit from regular networking meetings that create opportunities to share expertise, build meaningful connections, and grow support networks. Gain access to expert-led virtual programs on wellness, marketing, professional growth, and business development. Women To Women is a vibrant, relationship-focused community designed by women, for women, to elevate your personal and professional journey. Learn more.

Women Business Enterprise Certification-WBE

WBE Certification helps women-owned businesses compete for government contracts by leveling the playing field and providing access to valuable opportunities. Many government projects prioritize working with certified women-owned businesses, giving you a competitive edge. Certification boosts your credibility, increases visibility, and opens doors to resources, networking, and support. It’s a strategic step to overcome barriers and position your business for growth in competitive markets. Learn more.