AWBC Celebrates Fourth Annual International Women’s Day Reception in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. – March 4, 2026 – The Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC) welcomed more than 150 guests to the Presidential Suite at Union Station for its fourth annual International Women’s Day Reception, sponsored by T-Mobile. The event brought together small business owners, Women’s Business Center (WBC) directors and staff, policymakers, partners, and advocates committed to advancing women’s entrepreneurship nationwide.

The reception celebrated the impact of the WBC network while providing a forum for leaders across sectors to connect, share insights, and discuss strategies to strengthen support for women entrepreneurs.

Distinguished speakers included Elizabeth Habib, Assistant Administrator, Small Business Administration Office of Women’s Business Ownership; Emma Looney from T-Mobile; Carolyn Currie from Women’s Enterprise Scotland; and representatives from Massachusetts, the Northern Mariana Islands, and New Jersey. Their remarks highlighted the importance of partnerships, access to resources, and continued advocacy to ensure women entrepreneurs have the tools they need to start and grow their businesses.

During the event, AWBC announced a new memorandum of understanding with Women’s Enterprise Scotland, aimed at fostering deeper collaboration and creating additional opportunities to advance women’s entrepreneurship globally.

“International Women’s Day reminds us that supporting programs like Women’s Business Centers isn’t just meaningful to the small business owners they serve—it also drives real economic growth,” said Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women’s Business Centers. “By connecting entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and networks, we help them grow their businesses, create jobs, and strengthen communities.”

AWBC also highlighted the tangible impact of Women’s Business Centers nationwide. In 2024 alone, WBCs:

• Created and sustained 340,000 jobs, generating $16 billion in wages
• Helped entrepreneurs launch new businesses, with every taxpayer dollar invested generating $6 in revenue

These figures demonstrate the economic value of programs that connect small business owners with mentorship, resources, and networks.

The 2026 International Women’s Day Reception underscored the power of collaboration, advocacy, and community in advancing women’s entrepreneurship and strengthening the broader economy.

About the Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC):
AWBC is a national network dedicated to supporting Women’s Business Centers and advancing women entrepreneurship across the country. Through advocacy, training, and resources, AWBC helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses, create jobs, and drive economic growth.