Promoting the George Mason Small Business Development Center at the last luncheon are (from left) Sara Linus and Aung Shepelev.
In March 2019, Fairfax City held its second annual Women-Owned Business Luncheon. The event celebrated the accomplishments of female business owners in the City, helped them promote their companies and enabled them to both network with and support each other, going forward.
Then came the Covid-19 pandemic a year later with worldwide shutdowns. Yet throughout time, women have persisted, despite whatever challenges they faced. So even during the pandemic, women-owned businesses surged, revealing their hard-fought resilience.
However, still today, women entrepreneurs face hurdles in a male-dominated business world. Recognizing this situation and wanting to lend a hand, Fairfax City is reinstating this luncheon as a vital way to support them and foster their growth.
Featuring a bold new name, the Women’s Economic Empowerment Luncheon will be held Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The venue is the Sherwood Center, 3740 Blenheim Blvd. in Fairfax.
Hosting the luncheon are the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority (EDA), the City of Fairfax Commission for Women (CFW), the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce (CFCC), and the Old Town Fairfax Business Association (OTFBA).
“In the wake of the pandemic’s challenges, the revival of this luncheon stands as a testament to resilience and commitment,” said EDA Chair Beth Young, who owns her own business, Quality Information Partners. “As we join hands with the other host organizations, we reaffirm our dedication to empowering women entrepreneurs.”
“This event is not just a gathering – it’s a catalyst for growth, a beacon of support and a platform for collaboration,” she continued. “By bringing women together and providing access to vital support services, we pave the way for success and prosperity in Fairfax City. Let us seize this opportunity to uplift, inspire and propel our women-owned businesses forward.”
During the upcoming luncheon, Fairfax Mayor Catherine Read will moderate a panel discussion offering practical insights on everyday business challenges and how to reach target audiences. The panelists will be the owners of, respectively, Brooke’s Bridal, Nanci Ramos; Down The Line Sports Center, Jenni Bae; and Flex Professionals, Jamie Hirschfeld.
Keynote speaker Jessica McCarthy, president and co-owner of Joy Riot, will talk about best practices in marketing. Attendees will also enjoy a catered lunch from a women-owned business. In addition, female business owners in the City will get the chance to connect with business-support services, as well as network with other women business owners.
But that’s not all. In early August, the City announced a new initiative called the Women’s Entrepreneur Grant Opportunity (WEGO) intended to boost women-owned businesses in Fairfax City. This program will allocate a total of $25,000 to five women-owned businesses located in the City.
The funds will enable the grant awardees to procure consulting and other services aimed at enhancing their business capabilities. And these grant winners will be announced and honored at the luncheon.
The event’s schedule is as follows:
* 11:30 a.m.-noon – Meet and Greet and Exhibit
This will be a networking opportunity to explore the exhibit area where various organizations will showcase their services and resources tailored to women entrepreneurs.
* Noon-12:40 p.m. – Lunch and Panel Discussion
Participants will feast on a catered lunch provided by a women-owned business while engaging in a dynamic learning session. Both the guest speaker and panel members will offer insights and inspiration on the importance of supporting and empowering women in business. They’ll also address the challenges that women and their companies face in today’s economic climate.
* 12:40-1 p.m. – Guest Speaker
Jessica McCarthy will offer valuable insights into the importance of women amplifying their voices. Attendees will receive information about best practices, plus hear practical examples to help them effectively be recognized in the business world. They’ll also gain a variety of strategies to help them enhance their personal and professional influence, while impacting their businesses in meaningful ways.
* 1-1:30 p.m. – Grant Ceremony and Exhibit
The recipients of the Women’s Entrepreneur Grant Opportunity will be honored. Then people may continue networking with others at the event and connect with the exhibitors and support services.
Overall, the whole event seeks to provide female business owners with important insights to help them strengthen their marketing and self-promotion efforts, while also allowing them to showcase their operations and forge the needed connections to propel their businesses forward.
“I’m proud to support the Women’s Entrepreneur Empowerment Grant and the Women’s Economic Empowerment Luncheon, which reflect Fairfax City Economic Development’s commitment to fostering inclusivity in Fairfax City’s business community,” said Fairfax City EDA Chair Mitchell Cho. “These programs are not just about providing financial support, but also about creating a supportive ecosystem that helps women entrepreneurs thrive and contribute to a dynamic local economy.”
To purchase tickets for the luncheon, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/womens-economic-empowerment-luncheon-tickets-972233997057.