Guide to Women-Owned Business Organizations

Choose between different types of women's business groups

There are women business organizations of all sizes throughout the US. Some are nationwide, while others are based in your state or city. Every business woman can find the one that matches her personality, goals and objectives. That's because there are several groups--some for international women owned businesses, women small business organizations and minority women business organizations.

I recommend: Use the National Women's Business Council database to link you to dozens of women business associations in the US and abroad. Small Business Notes also provides a list of women business groups including such as Women in Technology International (WITI) and National Association of Female Executives (NAFE). Join the American Business Women's Association (ABWA), which spans the US with tens of thousands of members. Women Entrepreneurs of Oregon (WEO) is one state-based women’s business organization where members have access to networking, education and mentoring opportunities.

Expect to pay membership dues to join a Women in Business organization

Women business associations charge anywhere from less than $100 to a few thousand dollars per year for membership, depending on the available benefits and membership levels.

I recommend: The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) is one of the top women-owned business organizations. To be a NAWBO member in good standing, you must join the chapter and national organization. There are different categories of members, some have voting rights and others do not. Women's Presidents Organization (WPO), a group devoted to promoting acceptance and advancement for women in the workplace, have dues ranging from around $850 to be a member at large, $1500 to belong to a chapter and $5000 to be a member of the Zenith Group.

Benefit greatly from becoming part of Women in Business organizations

Being a member of women in business groups benefits you in so many ways. Not only do you make personal relationships, you develop connections, contacts and resources to help grow your business and you learn from other members. You also have the chance to make a difference in the community. In addition, most women's business groups have tangible member benefits.

I recommend: Women in business organizations such as Association of Women in International Trade (WIIT) get to attend seminars and meetings, access online job banks and become part of a dynamic network of professionals. Benefits for members of National Association for Female Executives (NAFE) include insurance at special prices, financial services, savings on your next car, travel discounts and savings on books.