WASHINGTON – Today, on International Women’s Day, U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho)—as former Chairman and current member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship—with the Chairman and Ranking Members of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), and Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) introduced a resolution celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments and vital role of women business owners in the United States.
“Idaho’s women-owned businesses are key drivers of our state’s incredible economic success. From employing tens of thousands of Idahoans to making the Gem State thrive, these business leaders embody the American entrepreneurial spirit. I am proud to recognize the nearly 13 million women-owned businesses across the country and celebrate their continued success,” said Risch.
“Americans continue to register new businesses in record numbers and women entrepreneurs lead the way. We must continue to look for ways to uplift them and break down the barriers that prevent their growth,” said Cardin. “Time and time again I hear of the challenges facing women entrepreneurs, including childcare, healthcare, and access to more resources. I have taken these concerns to heart and have tasked the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee to think of ways we can solve for these disparities. On International Women’s Day, we have an opportunity to elevate the stories of our incredible women entrepreneurs while understanding that together we can commit to helping them achieve their full potential.”
“Iowa’s more than 94,000 female small business owners personify the determination, ingenuity, and hard work that is critical to creating jobs and boosting our state’s economy,” said Ernst. “As Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, I’m grateful to help lead this bipartisan resolution to honor and celebrate the remarkable contributions of America’s female entrepreneurs who help make our communities thrive.”
During his time as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Senator Risch worked with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to bring a Women’s Business Center to Idaho. The Idaho Women’s Business Center provides resources, education, and services to entrepreneurs and female small business owners across the state of Idaho.
“The Idaho Women’s Business Center appreciates Senator Risch leading this effort to highlight Women’s History Month. His unwavering support over the last 4 years in bringing the WBC back to Idaho has positively impacted many families through our programs and services. Women entrepreneurs are leading the stats in increased early-stage small businesses, especially those from socially disadvantaged communities, including the many rural Main streets across Idaho. With this collaborative ecosystem, we applaud the proclamation of uplifting women in Idaho and nationwide,” said Diane Bevan, CEO and Executive Director of the Idaho Women’s Business Center.
