The Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC) has played a significant role in advocating for the Women’s Business Center (WBC) program by working with policymakers, securing funding, and raising awareness of the critical role WBCs play in supporting women entrepreneurs. Here are some key ways AWBC has advocated for WBCs:
1. Securing Increased Funding for WBCs
- Congressional Advocacy: AWBC regularly lobbies Congress to increase funding for the SBA WBC program, ensuring that centers have the resources they need to serve more women entrepreneurs.
- Grant Expansions: The AWBC has successfully advocated for funding increases that have led to the largest expansion of WBCs in recent years.
2. Legislative Efforts & Policy Influence
- Women’s Business Center Improvement Act: AWBC has supported legislation aimed at increasing grant sizes, streamlining program administration, and improving long-term sustainability for WBCs.
- Small Business Reauthorization Efforts: The organization has worked to ensure that WBCs receive continued congressional support in SBA reauthorization bills.
3. Raising Awareness & Public Support
- Annual Advocacy Days: AWBC hosts events where WBC leaders and women entrepreneurs meet with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to share success stories and emphasize the importance of continued funding. Bi-annually, AWBC hosts it's Annual Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. which includes a Fly-In allowing WBCs across the country to meet with their legislators and share successes of the WBC program.
- Media & Public Campaigns: AWBC highlights the impact of WBCs through reports, storytelling, and national media coverage to showcase how WBCs empower women in business.
4. Strengthening the WBC Network
- Training & Best Practices: AWBC provides technical assistance and professional development for WBC directors and staff to enhance service delivery.
- Data & Research: AWBC collects and shares data on the economic impact of WBCs, demonstrating their effectiveness in helping women start and grow businesses.
5. COVID-19 & Economic Recovery Efforts
- During the pandemic, AWBC advocated for emergency relief funding to support WBCs as they helped women business owners navigate financial hardships, access loans, and transition to digital operations.
AWBC continues to be the leading voice ensuring that WBCs remain well-funded, well-supported, and positioned to serve the next generation of women entrepreneurs.