Leadership: Then, Now, & Forward

In 1986, Carol Dougal and Hedy Ratner founded the WBDC to provide programs and services in order to economically empower women. The idea was radical for its time in an environment that was less than receptive to the potential economic impact of women and minority business owners.

Carol and Hedy have been involved in social justice issues their entire lives, participating in the Civil Rights, the Women’s, and the Human Rights Movements. During the second wave of the Women’s Movement, they found a niche that had not been addressed, which was women’s economic impact through business ownership.

Both had a vision of what they wanted the WBDC to be, but their biggest challenge was getting the financial support and establishing the credibility of their mission in order to grow the organization. When they first started, Carol and Hedy had to establish credibility with key community leaders and supportive government officials in order to implement critically needed programs, initiatives, and public policies. They were the first organization to achieve this nationally, thanks to the initial support of Governor Jim Thompson. They had a vision, and with the Governor’s support, were able to secure additional support from the corporate and foundation sectors as well as local and national government entities. Their strength was, and still is, their passion and tenacity toward the advancement of women.

The WBDC began with a mission to support and accelerate  women’s business ownership and strengthen their economic impact by creating jobs, fueling economic growth, and building strong communities. Over the years since the launch of the WBDC, in response to shifting demographics and community needs, our focus has broadened to include all entrepreneurs.