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I recently attended a strategic planning session for NAWBO National, and the discussions revolved around where the national organization is going and how it can best serve its customers, defined as several groups, with “chapters” being one, and “members” being another. I learned that 97% of NAWBO members are affiliated with a chapter, and that the majority of the people who participate in NAWBO’s national events (Public Policy Days, National Conference) are chapter leaders. Therefore, the “NAWBO Experience” for most members is determined by what’s happening within their chapter. 

Surveys have shown that women business owners (WBOs) join NAWBO for five main reasons: learning strategies for running/growing their business from other WBOs; making business contacts/networking; building relationships with WBO peers for mentorship, support and friendship; opportunities for leadership and personal growth; and education and training on business topics.  

For the past couple years, NAWBO NOVA has heavily focused on providing programming that addresses the first two of those reasons for joining – learning from other WBOs and networking. The third reason – building relationships – has happened naturally as our members get to know each other through event participation. The fourth – leadership and growth opportunities – are available for members who want to participate on our Board of Directors or on a committee. We haven’t focused on providing education and training on business topics because there are plenty of other sources in the marketplace. 

As President of NAWBO NOVA, I want to know what you want from the chapter and from your membership, and if we’re doing a good job of providing it. I welcome all suggestions for new programs, initiatives, and improvements to our current offerings. You can email me at bod@nawbonova.org and send any feedback you’d like to offer. My goal is to make our chapter #1 within NAWBO in terms of serving our members.

Molly Gimmel is the President of NAWBO NOVA and owner of Design To Delivery Inc

www.d2dinc.com