Supporters of local businesses owned by women are making news recently in St. George, Utah. The group of supporters includes Town and Country Bank, Élan Woman and Utah Small Business Development Centers (USBDC) Network. Each awarded business grants to three local small businesses owned and operated by women.
One grant of $2,500 was awarded by Town and Country Bank to the owner of a boarding and training ranch for dogs. Two other grants of $1,000 each were given by Elan Woman and Utah Small Business Development Centers Network to the owner of a smoothie shop and another owner who operates a store that sells fresh agriculture products.
Town and Country Bank is dedicated to supporting women business owners. Their Women's Banking Group was formed to provide business women with banking and financial services that are designed for women entrepreneurs. Women who are members of the banking group also receive opportunities to attend seminars and workshops where they can receive support on issues pertaining to women business owners.
The USBDC Network provides consulting and training services for local small businesses. It receives its funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), and eight colleges and universities throughout Utah.
Élan Woman is a magazine about inspirational women and life in the southwest. It focuses on culture, lifestyles, education and humanitarian programs. The purpose of the publication is to empower women and honor their entrepreneurial spirit.