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April 15, 2024 | Katelyn Keenehan

Female business leaders have new resource in Northeast TN

The Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center is the result of a federal grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Women’s Business Ownership.

Women in business leadership positions in Northeast Tennessee will soon have a new center to call home. In a huge win for female Kingsport-based small business owners, the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership awarded a federal grant to establish a new women’s business center.

The city recently broke ground on the new Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center. It is one of just 17 centers nationwide. Kingsport is the only location in the region to receive a grant of this nature.

The Women’s Business Center is positioned to serve as a vital resource hub, offering a myriad of essential services tailored specifically for women entrepreneurs. Among these offerings are training programs, counseling services, and tailored guidance, all designed to equip women with the tools necessary to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape successfully. Moreover, the center’s mission extends beyond mere support; it aims to facilitate access to federal contracts and credit opportunities, crucial components in nurturing sustainable business growth.

The establishment of the Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center signifies a pivotal moment in the journey toward gender equality in entrepreneurship. Despite the strides made in recent years, women entrepreneurs still encounter unique challenges in accessing resources and support networks necessary for success. This center aims to bridge that gap by providing tailored assistance and fostering an environment conducive to the growth and prosperity of women-led businesses.

For more information, read this article from the Kingsport Times-News.


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