May 2026 Newsletter

Amplify: Finding Strength in What We Share 



In a world that often focuses on what makes us different, there is power in recognizing what makes us the same. As women business owners, we come from different industries, backgrounds and experiences. We build different types of businesses. We lead in different ways. But at our core, we share more than we sometimes realize. We understand the weight of responsibility. We know what it means to take risks. We’ve experienced doubt — and chosen to move forward anyway. We are more alike than we are different. And that’s where amplification begins. 

May Member Spotlight - Amplify

How can you amplify your voice, your vision and your impact in a way that not only elevates your business—but also creates new opportunities for other women to rise alongside you?

An old proverb says, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” In my law practice and through volunteer work, I empower people with skills so that they can prosper. For instance, I have taught many clients about various laws and give them tips based on my years of experience so that they can then grow their business and better protect their business from exposure to liability.



Helen Bloch, Esq. 

Owner 

Law Offices of Helen Bloch, P.C.

Amplifying my voice, vision and impact means using the platform I’ve built through tori grace outfitters not just to grow my own company, but to help create space for other women business owners to be seen, supported and connected. tori grace outfitters is rooted in celebrating Chicago: its neighborhoods, people, landmarks, and culture. Over time, I've realized that this creative work has the power to bring people together. As my business grows, I see my role expanding beyond being a designer, maker and small business owner to becoming a connector who helps open doors for other women makers and entrepreneurs. 

Heather Polcaster

Owner

tori grace outfitters

I amplify my voice and impact by being transparent about what it actually takes to grow a business, especially the financial side that many owners avoid or find intimidating. When I share what I’ve learned through both success and hard lessons, it creates space for more honest conversations and better decision making. In my work, that means helping business owners gain real clarity around their numbers so they can lead with confidence. It also means being intentional about who I bring along with me. 

Tracy Smith

Owner

SERVPRO

Grateful For An Unforgettable Women Mean Business 2026!

Thank you to everyone who made the 2026 Women Mean Business® conference and fundraiser such an incredible success at the end of April!

We are deeply grateful to our attendees, sponsors and supporters who showed up with energy, openness and a commitment to growing together. Your presence and participation created a powerful day of connection, inspiration and momentum for women business owners across our community.

We’re proud to build this experience alongside you and look forward to what we’ll continue to achieve together.

Thank You To All These Partners Who Supported The Conference

Thank You To All The Table Sponsors For An Amazing Luncheon

New or Long-Time Members: Check Out Member Orientation

Join NAWBO Chicago for a Member Orientation on Zoom on May 20 from 8:30 – 9:30 am! Whether you are new to the organization, a long-time member or simply want more information before joining, all female entrepreneurs are invited to attend this FREE orientation and learn how to maximize all that NAWBO has to offer.

Members In The News

Congratulations to NAWBO Chicago's Immediate Past President, Angie Noll, Founder and Owner of Reconciled Solutions, on being named to the Daily Herald's 2026 Influential Women in Business list!

Check out the featured profile of Angie on page five of the special section!

New Mastermind Groups Are Forming! Sign Up Now

Masterminds are small, confidential peer-to-peer monthly discussion groups that are FREE to Premier Members. Take advantage of this “think tank” to address issues in your business with like-minded peers.  

What are you waiting for? Click the button below and complete a brief questionnaire to sign up. New groups are launching in May!

Help Guide NAWBO Chicago In The New Year: Join A Committee

Shape the future of women in business in 2026 and join a NAWBO Chicago committee!

🚀 As we continue to look forward this year, NAWBO Chicago is ready to reach new heights—but we can’t get there without your unique voice and expertise.

🚀 Advocacy: 1st Friday at 12:00 pm

💡 Conference: 3rd Wednesday at 4:00 pm

💪 Membership: 3rd Tuesday at 3:00 pm

Whether your passion is in advocacy, membership or our signature annual event, there is a seat at the table for you. Let’s make 2026 our most impactful year yet. Email info@nawbochicago.org to get involved today!

NAWBO Chicago Newsletter Submissions

NAWBO Chicago newsletters are published monthly. Email June submissions to the newsletter editor by May 15, 2026.