Kingsport Chamber Initiates Women’s Business Center to Empower Female Entrepreneurs
In a bid to boost and support women entrepreneurs, the Kingsport Chamber recently launched the Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center. The initiative targets to help women overcome unique challenges they face in business, enabling them to flourish and have an impact on Northeast Tennessee’s economy.
Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center’s Creation
Identifying that women in business grapple with distinct obstacles, a driving force in the chamber’s establishment of the Women’s Business Center was to provide dedicated effort and resources to address these hurdles. The center will serve women business entrepreneurs in the surrounding ten counties, with the aim of building and supporting companies, creating and retaining jobs, securing capital and contracts.
Supporting Female Entrepreneurs’ Needs
Alicia Camp, the co-owner of Sister’s Cravings Juice Bar and Grill in Kingsport, pointed out the difficulties women face in running businesses. She highlighted striking a balance between work and personal life, particularly for mothers, as a significant challenge. Camp expressed that the support from community organizations, such as the Women’s Business Center, strengthens partnerships, extends community reach, and positively impacts the community.
Commitment to Foster Women Empowerment
The initiative features personalized consulting, custom training, and by connecting women entrepreneurs with necessary resources. It is not only open to existing women business owners but also welcomes those aspiring to start a business in the area. Aundrea Slyer, the Chief Business Development Officer for the Kingsport Chamber, reiterated the commitment to assist women overcome their unique hindrances while emphasizing the need for the government’s support even in areas like Northeast Tennessee.
A Step towards a Vibrant Community
The Kingsport Chamber envisions that by empowering female entrepreneurs through this initiative, the community will significantly benefit. The Chamber’s CEO, Miles Burdine believes that the region is abundant with great potential female business owners that this initiative will foster, leading to business growth and positive community changes.
Encouragement to Female Entrepreneurs
Alicia Camp provided her words of encouragement to aspiring female entrepreneurs, urging them to take the plunge – as the efforts, albeit difficult, will bear fruit. The Chamber, being one of the 17 agencies countrywide selected for this grant, is notably eager to witness the initiative’s impact on the community.
In conclusion, the Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center initiative aims not only to tackle unique challenges faced by female entrepreneurs but also to promote the growth, and success of their businesses, which in turn will benefit the community as a whole. This move by the Kingsport Chamber is undoubtedly a giant leap towards fostering women empowerment in Northern Tennessee.
