Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
The Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is a non-profit organization founded in 1997 in the United States. Its mission is to promote and support women-owned businesses and provide them with opportunities for growth and success. WBENC is dedicated to advancing women entrepreneurs by providing them with certification, resources, networking opportunities, and access to corporate and government contracts.
WBENC is the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women entrepreneurs. It offers the Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) certification, which is a widely recognized and respected designation for women-owned businesses across various industries.
The certification process involves a thorough review of a company's ownership, management, and control by WBENC's regional partner organizations. Once certified, women-owned businesses gain access to a network of corporate members, government agencies, and other women-owned businesses, opening doors to potential business opportunities.
WBENC also hosts events and conferences where women entrepreneurs can connect with potential clients, showcase their products and services, and learn from industry experts. These events provide a platform for networking, collaboration, and professional development.
As a non-profit organization, WBENC's primary focus is on supporting and empowering women-owned businesses rather than generating profits. It operates through corporate sponsorships, government grants, membership fees, and other sources of funding to sustain its operations and fulfill its mission.
In addition to its certification program, WBENC works to promote supplier diversity and inclusion, encouraging corporations and government entities to support and engage with women-owned businesses in their procurement processes. WBENC advocates for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities for women entrepreneurs and seeks to create a level playing field in the business world.
Overall, WBENC plays a crucial role in promoting women-owned businesses, fostering economic growth, and empowering women entrepreneurs to succeed in the marketplace.