The WBDC Ignites Business Growth

Through its programs, services, and advocacy efforts, the WBDC has helped over 101,000 women entrepreneurs gain economic self-sufficiency through business ownership and expansion and worked to change public policy nationally and locally over its 36-year history.

Who Are We?

The Women’s Business Development Center was founded in 1986 and is a nationally recognized leader in women’s business development and economic empowerment.

Learn More

Programs and services

Coaching / Curricula
  • Strategic one-on-one and group business advising
  • Specialized cohort-based curricula and workshops
  • Digital learning
Contracts
  • Private sector procurement opportunities
  • Public sector contracting assistance
  • WBE certification
Capital
  • Financial education
  • Debt and equity placement
  • Direct lending
  • Kiva microlending

Upcoming EventsView All

Top Shelf Business Cohort
Featured Events

Top Shelf Services Business Cohort

The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) is proud to present Top Shelf Services: Professional Services. This six-week virtual program is sponsored by Walgreens and bp, WBDC corporate partners. The program is designed to help established professional services businesses access procurement opportunities in the mass retail market.
Sep
25
Chicago IL All Day Event
APPLICATION DEADLINE | TOP SHELF SERVICES BUSINESS COHORT
Sep
26
Chicago IL 10:00am - 11:00am
Understanding the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Pre-Award Process
Sep
26
Chicago IL 10:00am - 11:00am
Mentor-Protégé Programs in Federal Contracting
Sep
26
Chicago IL 11:00am - 12:00pm
Access to Capital Direct Lending Program Information Session

Sign up for Updates

Get news from the Women's Business Development Center in your inbox.

Subscribe

UpdatesView All

WBDC President and CEO Emilia DiMenco Announces Retirement in 2024: A Decade of Transformative Leadership

After a decade of dedicated service as President and CEO of the Women’s Business Development Center, Emilia DiMenco has shared her intention to retire at the end of 2024. Emilia’s remarkable contributions throughout her tenure have been invaluable in furthering the WBDC’s mission, and we extend our deepest gratitude for her commitment. For more details about the transition, please read the official press release here.

Our Supporters