Greetings NAWBO Members and Supporters!

As we wave goodbye to summer and welcome the crisp, invigorating air of fall, we find ourselves in a season brimming with energy, fresh beginnings, and endless opportunities. At NAWBO Charlotte, we embrace this change with enthusiasm, knowing that every new season brings renewed potential for growth, connection, and collaboration.

Being a part of NAWBO offers so many benefits, designed to help you grow both personally and professionally. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you as a valued member:

1. Monthly Signature Meetings:

Our Signature Meetings are where the heart of NAWBO Charlotte beats. These gatherings are not just about education, but about making genuine connections. Come to learn, network, collaborate, and support fellow women business owners. This is your space to build lasting relationships that inspire and elevate. Mark your calendar for Tuesday, October 15th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM for an exclusive event, as we welcome Councilman Mitchell to address critical questions about how Women Business Owners (WBOs) can thrive by partnering with the City of Charlotte. This is your chance to learn why getting certified is more important than ever and how it can unlock new opportunities to propel your business to new heights. Register below!

2. Complimentary Connect & Network Meetings:

Each month, we host complimentary Connect & Network meetings at various vibrant locations throughout Charlotte. These informal get-togethers are perfect for deepening connections in a relaxed atmosphere. Keep an eye on our schedule, and reach out to Joni Hough (info@minthillphotography.com) for more information.

3. Complimentary Mastermind Groups:

Growth is never achieved alone. Premier Members can join one of our Mastermind Groups for a deeper dive into personal and professional development. These small, supportive groups offer encouragement, problem-solving, and a safe space to share your challenges and triumphs. Pam Seacrest (pam@pentagongroup.net) is your point of contact to learn more about this powerful opportunity.

4. Complimentary Premier Member Spotlights:

We love highlighting the incredible work of our Premier Members! At our Signature Meetings, you can put your business in the spotlight, giving you the chance to showcase your expertise and elevate your brand. If you're interested in being featured, contact nawboclt@outlook.com to schedule your Premier Member Spotlight.

5. Complimentary NAWBO National Benefits:

As a NAWBO member, you gain access to a wealth of national resources. Enjoy our Monthly Virtual Connects, NAWBO National Empower Hours, and so much more. These complimentary benefits are designed to help you grow, learn, and connect on a broader scale. Visit NAWBO.org, select Events & News, and dive into everything NAWBO has to offer.

Fall is a season of transformation, and there’s no better time to get involved, share your story, and take advantage of all the resources available to you through NAWBO Charlotte. Together, we are stronger, more innovative, and better equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. I am here to help - please reach out if you have any questions or need support @ 704-904-2397 or rochelle.stewart@showstoppingeventplanning.com

Let’s make this season one of growth, connection, and success!

With deep gratitude,

Rochelle Stewart

President, NAWBO Charlotte

704-904-2397

October Signature Lunch Meeting

Tuesday, October 15th

11:00 - 1:00pm

Brewers at 4001 Yancey

Networking & Lunch Buffet - 11:00 - 11:30am

Panel & NAWBO Charlotte Meeting - 11:30 - 1:00pm

Join us for an exclusive event where Councilman Mitchell will address key questions about how Women Business Owners (WBOs) can thrive by doing business with the City of Charlotte! Learn why getting certified is crucial and how it can open doors to opportunities that will propel your business to new heights.

Why Should WBOs Get Certified to Do Business with the City of Charlotte?

During this can't-miss presentation, Councilman Mitchell will dive into the details of working with the city, answering questions like:

• What are the short- and long-term benefits of doing business with the City?
• What’s the current success rate of minority-owned business contracts?
• How does the City ensure quality bids are considered, not just the lowest price?
• What initiatives does the City have in place to attract more certified businesses?

Thursday, October 24th

5:30 to 7:00 PM

Unpause Your Dreams Creative Studio

Our theme for this event is Each One, Reach One - a powerful reminder of how we can all support the growth of women business owners by sharing the benefits of NAWBO membership with those around us.  

If you are not a Member, but want to learn more about the benefits of NAWBO, then this is a great opportunity to meet some of our Members and Board of Directors, and to learn more about what NAWBO membership is all about...

• Expanding your professional network
• Gaining access to advocacy and educational resources
• Joining a supportive community of women entrepreneurs

If you are already a NAWBO Member, we encourage you to bring along a friend, colleague, or fellow woman business owner who would benefit from being a part of the NAWBO Charlotte community. It is also a chance to network, share your experiences, and help grow our powerful network of women entrepreneurs.

Let’s come together, share our stories, and help build the future of women in business in Charlotte. Remember: Each One, Reach One!

November Signature Dinner Meeting

Tuesday, November 12th

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Brewers at 4001 Yancey

In November, we are excited to welcome Zahn Patin of The Wonder Group for a discussion called Get it Done Differently with A.I. - Tips to Increase Your Team's Productivity & Lower Your Firm's Costs

AI is transforming the way businesses operate, offering tools that streamline processes, improve decision-making, and reduce costs. This session will focus on practical ways to leverage AI to boost productivity and drive cost savings for your firm.

This session will empower business leaders and teams to "get it done differently" by utilizing AI to not only boost productivity but also reduce costs in practical, sustainable ways. By the end of the meeting, attendees will understand how to strategically implement AI solutions in their firms and realize tangible benefits for their teams and clients.

Interested in sharing your talents and making the most of your membership with NAWBO Charlotte?

If you are looking to grow your network, share your talents and ideas, maximize your membership, and build some wonderful friendships, we encourage you to volunteer to serve on one (or more) of our many committees!

We are only as great as those who answer the call to serve, and we hope you will join us as we work to make NAWBO Charlotte the best it can be!

Charlotte Women's Small Business Month

Official City Proclamation

Monday, October 14th

6:00pm

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center

600 East 4th Street

We are thrilled to announce that on Monday October 14, 2024, Mayor Vi Lyles will declare the month of October Charlotte Women’s Small Business Month!

This is in keeping with National Women’s Small Business Month, which recognizes the myriad of achievements of female entrepreneurs and the positive impact they are making on jobs and the economy. NAWBO Charlotte has spearheaded this exciting local tradition for many years, and we are so grateful to the City and to Mayor Lyles for their continued support of women business owners. You can read the Charlotte’s Women’s Small Business Month Proclamation in its entirety below. 

In addition, we invite all NAWBO members and women business owners come to the meeting on Monday to hear the proclamation in person.

We are so grateful for their service to the NAWBO organization and our Chapter. You can find their contact info below should you wish to reach them, or to volunteer to help!

Calling all Premier members of NAWBO Charlotte!

Did you know one of the best perks of Premier Membership is the option to join a Mastermind group? A Mastermind is like having your own Board of Directors - and you serve on the Board of their company. It is a great place to share wins and frustrations, bounce ideas off of, and to build camaraderie and a circle of trust.

Wondering if a Mastermind can benefit you? If you are interested in hearing about Mastermind groups and/or joining one, please reach out to our Mastermind Chairs, Zulma or Pam. Their contact info can be found below.

Why Women Business Owners Must Vote in 2024

As a woman business owner, your voice has the power to shape the future of our economy, communities, and rights. The 2024 election is critical, and your vote is essential in ensuring policies that benefit your business and the values you stand for.

This election will impact everything from taxes and regulations to education and healthcare. Your vote can help create an environment where women entrepreneurs thrive, innovation grows, and equality is prioritized.

Early Voting: Don’t Miss Out

The 2024 General Election is on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, but you don’t have to wait until then. Take advantage of early voting!

• For North Carolina residents, early voting runs from October 17, 2024, through 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2024. Learn more
• For South Carolina residents, early voting begins Monday, October 21, 2024, and ends Saturday, November 2, 2024. Voting centers are open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. Learn more

Key Registration Deadlines

• South Carolina residents: If you're already registered, verify your status at scvotes.gov. To register to vote, go here: Register to Vote SC
• In-person registration deadline: October 4, 2024, at 5 p.m.
• Online registration deadline: October 6, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.
• Mail-in registration deadline: Must be postmarked by October 7, 2024.
• North Carolina residents: Make sure you're registered by October 11, 2024, at 5 p.m. You can register in person during early voting if you miss this deadline. To register to vote, go here: Register to Vote NC

How to Register to Vote

NC Residents:

• Online or in-person through the DMV: If you're an NCDMV customer, register online in minutes. Complete Your Registration Online Through the DMV
• By Mail: Download and mail your form. NC Voter Registration Application (English) | NC Voter Registration Application (Spanish)

Military and overseas voters have special options. Learn more about Military and Overseas Voting

For more information on NC offices up for re-election, visit Upcoming Election

SC Residents: 

• Online through the DMV: If you're an SCDMV customer, register online in minutes. Complete Your Registration Online Through the DMV
• In-Person: Visit your county board of voter registration and register in person. You can also register while receiving services at various agencies including the Department of Motor Vehicles. Go here: Complete Your Registration In Person for a complete list of agencies providing voter registration under the National Voter Registration Act.
• By Mail: Download and mail your form. SC Voter Registration Application (English) 

For more information on SC upcoming elections, visit Upcoming Election

Your vote is your power. Let’s ensure women business owners are heard in 2024. Don’t wait —register, vote early, and make a difference!

Whether you're an experienced business owner or new to entrepreneurship, skillful cash management can be the key factor in your success. Bank of America, one of our corporate sponsors, has outlined five effective methods to improve your cash flow, helping your business stay financially sound and ready for expansion. From smart inventory control to making the most of your banking relationships, these suggestions will help you take charge of your company's financial well-being.

Read full article here. 

You can also Check out Bank of America’s free webinar "Cash Flow Management". Register here to secure your spot and take the next step towards financial success.

Spring Cohort

Applications now open!

Mecklenburg County's Get Up and Grow program is the community’s premier small business development program that enables business owners with knowledge and skills to grow, expand, and increase annual sales.

The no-cost program helps local business owners to develop a strategic growth plan. Participants receive access to professional consultants, a peer network, and training with subject matter experts.