By: Stephanie Abrams at Valley Bank.
Women play a significant role in Montgomery’s business landscape—from small business ownership to leadership in the C-suite.
In fact, the Alabama Small Business Development Center reports that about 30% of the state’s small businesses are now women-owned, compared to just 5% in 1970. Alabama is outpacing the rest of the country in adding women-owned businesses, and Montgomery is no exception. This growth underscores the vital role women leaders play in our economy.
To sustain this momentum, women leaders and entrepreneurs need strong networks, access to resources and opportunities to collaborate. Here are four key organizations and tools that can help women in business connect, learn, and succeed.
4 Resources to Support Women in Business
Women business owners and leaders in Montgomery can seek support from several tools and organizations. A few key resources include:
- Alabama Women in Business (AWIB): AWIB connects women entrepreneurs across industries, creating opportunities to build alliances and strengthen leadership. The group hosts networking and social events, and monthly luncheons featuring local business leaders. Membership is available throughout the year – it’s never too late to join.
- Local Chambers of Commerce: Joining a chamber offers access to networking events, professional development opportunities and community partnerships to elevate your company and career. Many, including the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, have women-in-business initiatives designed to support growth and mentorship.
- Valley Bank’s Women in Business Program: Valley’s Women in Business program empowers women leaders through networking events, skill-building seminars and personalized financial tools. The group recently hosted a rooftop social in May with guest speaker Erika McKay, General Counsel at Alabama Department of Commerce.
- The Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship: Though headquartered in North Alabama, The Catalyst operates the REACH Women’s Business Center to support women in Central Alabama. The group offers year-round events, both online and in-person, to guide women through every stage of business ownership. They also provide one-on-one coaching sessions with experienced advisors.
Putting Resources to Work
Whether you’re a business owner or a corporate leader, tapping into women-focused networking and professional development opportunities can fuel innovation, support mentorship and drive long-term growth.
Valley Bank’s Montgomery team understands how important women-owned businesses and women leaders are to our community’s economic vitality. From securing funding to building new skills, we’re here to help elevate your success.
Connect with your local Valley banker to learn more about the Women in Business Program and the customized financial tools available to support your goals.
~ Stephanie Abrams is Vice President, Market Manager at Valley Bank in Montgomery and has been in the banking industry for 22 years.
Contact Info:
[email protected]
334-270-3040
[VALLEY BACKGROUND]
As the principal subsidiary of Valley National Bancorp, Valley National Bank is a regional bank with nearly $64 billion in assets. Valley operates many convenient branch locations and commercial banking offices across New Jersey, New York, Florida, Alabama, California, and Illinois and is committed to providing the most convenient service, the latest innovations and an experienced and knowledgeable team dedicated to meeting customer needs. To learn more about Valley, go to valley.com.
[Disclosure]
Valley National Bank is an FDIC Insured, regional bank. Banking products and services are provided through Valley National Bank and insurance products and services are provided by Valley Insurance Services, Inc. (“VIS”). VIS is an insurance agency and a subsidiary of Valley National Bank. Non-deposit investment products offered through Valley National Bank or Valley Subsidiaries are: not insured by the FDIC or any other federal or government entity; not guaranteed by Valley National Bank; subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.
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