The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) is the oldest, largest, most comprehensive, and successful women’s business assistance center in the United States. This organization is nationally and internationally recognized for its responsive, innovative, and effective programs and advocacy efforts. WBDC delivers business services and financial assistance to empower women towards entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency.  Since its founding in 1986, WBDC has grown from a two-person operation to a national leader in women’s economic development with a budget of $2.2 million. Its operation has grown to a staff of 24 full-time employees and consultants, a roster of expert trainers, industry-specific advisory boards, and a powerful Board of Directors comprised of Chicago women considered leaders in their fields.  

Over the years, WBDC assisted more than 55,000 women in the greater Chicago area, helped establish 14 additional women’s business assistance centers in six states in the U.S., and continue to be credited for  programs and policies that impact women’s economic development across the nation and globally. Read more