North Miami-Dade News

Reps. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and Grace Meng (D-NY) have reintroduced a bipartisan bill in the House of Representatives aimed at increasing federal support for female entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses. The legislation, known as the Interagency Committee on Women’s Business Enterprise Act, has also been reintroduced in the Senate by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

The bill seeks to reauthorize the Interagency Committee on Women’s Business Enterprise (ICWBE) and appoint a chairperson to handle panel operations and prevent backlogs. This move is seen as crucial in ensuring that women have a seat at the table and can continue to succeed as business owners and entrepreneurs.

The ICWBE, established in 1979, is a U.S. government entity responsible for coordinating federal resources to help women-owned businesses grow and succeed. However, the committee has been inactive since 2000 and has not been able to fulfill its purpose effectively. Currently, no other federal agency has the authority to coordinate federal resources for women-owned businesses.

The appointment of a chairperson would enhance the federal government's ability to provide targeted assistance to women entrepreneurs as they strive to start and expand their businesses. It would also ensure that all resources are being used effectively by updating the agencies and departments involved in the coordination process. Additionally, the bill aims to update the interagency mission to identify and address the barriers faced by women business owners and entrepreneurs in their journey towards business growth.

This bipartisan effort has garnered support from various stakeholders, including Wendy Diamond, CEO and founder of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization. Diamond commended the bill, stating that it demonstrates a resolute commitment to advancing women's business ownership and fostering a more diverse and inclusive space for women-led startups.

Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women’s Business Centers, also expressed support for the legislation. Goble emphasized the importance of giving women entrepreneurs a voice across the entire government and praised Reps. Meng, Salazar, and Senator Duckworth for their dedication to addressing this crucial issue.

The bill has gained further endorsement from Senator Duckworth, who highlighted its potential to ensure fair access to resources for women entrepreneurs and business owners across federal agencies. She also emphasized the importance of sharing and implementing best practices to encourage more women to start and grow their businesses.

With this bipartisan and bicameral effort, the reintroduction of the Interagency Committee on Women’s Business Enterprise Act signifies a significant step towards empowering women entrepreneurs and fostering a stronger economy. The bill aims to remove unnecessary barriers and pave the way for the continued success of women entrepreneurs across the nation.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazar-reintroduces-bipartisan-legislation-help-women-entrepreneurs-succeed