National Association of Women Business Owners

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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.

In the last 20 years, the number of women-owned businesses has increased dramatically. Utah is not immune to that trend. As of 2006, the Center for Women's Business Research found that an estimated 57,000 women-owned firms in Utah account for $7 billion in sales and employ more than 52,000 people. It stands to reason that an organization would be created to serve this growing demographic.

The National Association of Women Business Owners began in 1974 as a monthly meeting with 12 women business owners in the Washington, D.C. area. The women met to trade information about federal contracts, bank credit and other issues related to their businesses. The number of attendees increased, and it soon became clear that a formal organization was necessary. NAWBO was incorporated in July 1975.

The Utah NAWBO chapter was formed in 1992 and is one of 80 chapters nationwide. Debbie Jacketta, current president of the Utah chapter, says NAWBO's status as a national organization gives it more business and political influence. Being affiliated with NAWBO has made it possible for Debbie to network with other business owners and find solutions to common problems or issues that arise. The local chapter has attracted women of all ages, from those in their 20s to women in their 60s. It also caters to women in various stages of business, from start-up to well-established companies.

Community involvement is an important aspect of the organization. For the last three years, the Utah NAWBO Chapter has partnered with the University of Utah to provide a half-day seminar for business school students. Also, for the first time this year the Utah NAWBO chapter partnered with the Girl Scouts.

Debbie hopes to see the Utah chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners continue to increase in membership so more women have access to its valuable services and resources.

For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.