Celebrating Women’s Small Business Month

The History of Women in Business

It’s hard to believe that as recently as 1972, there were only a little over 400,000 women-owned businesses in the United States. For context, until 1988, women even needed a male relative to co-sign if they wanted to apply for a business loan. That same year, the Women’s Business Ownership Act was passed, increasing access to capital for women and enabling them to build their businesses independently. This act played a significant role in changing the landscape for women entrepreneurs by providing them with the financial tools needed to succeed. By 2019, women-owned businesses represented 42% of all U.S. businesses, generating an impressive $1.9 trillion in revenue. Today, there are over 13 million women-owned businesses, and that number continues to grow.

Honoring Women’s Small Business Month

At Harriman Material Handling

We proudly honor this milestone as our own company is a part of this history. Owned and led by our President, Ashley Larochelle, Harriman thrives on the principles of determination, innovation, and the values that women entrepreneurs bring to the table. As a woman-owned business, we understand firsthand the importance of diversity in fostering creativity and driving progress.

Resources for Women’s Small Businesses

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S., echoes this sentiment. “We believe diversity promotes innovation, opens doors, and creates partnerships that fuel the economy.” Through initiatives like Women Owned, WBENC and WEConnect International have created a movement to support female entrepreneurs and the businesses that partner with them. Their mission goes beyond certification by providing resources and raising awareness about the value of supporting women-owned enterprises.

The Result of Women’s Small Business Month

National Women’s Small Business Month is more than just a celebration—it’s a reminder of the power and potential of female leadership. We at Harriman Material Handling encourage everyone to #BuyWomenOwned, not just this month, but year-round. Supporting women-owned businesses fuels innovation, strengthens communities, and empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs.

As we honor the progress made, we also look toward the future, inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of women like Ashley Larochelle, whose vision continues to push boundaries in the material handling industry.

This October, we celebrate National Women's Small Business Month, honoring the growth, accomplishments, and contributions of women-owned businesses in the U.S.

Celebrating Women’s Small Business Month

The History of Women in Business

Honoring Women’s Small Business Month

At Harriman Material Handling

Resources for Women’s Small Businesses

The Result of Women’s Small Business Month

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