Austin is one of the fastest growing cities for women entrepreneurs and the Women’s Business Council – Southwest’s second largest hub for members in our four-state territory. We are here to support women entrepreneurs in building relationships that result in business, accessing one-of-a-kind mentorship opportunities, and getting the recognition they deserve.
While the Women’s Business Council – Southwest’s headquarters are based in Irving, TX, we have a satellite office in Austin to support you!
Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) Certification
The best way to receive all of the benefits that the Women’s Business Council – Southwest has to offer is to become a certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE). This certification automatically grants you membership with WBCS and ensures that your business is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a woman or women.
Why Get Certified?
Many private corporations and public entities have goals to spend money with diverse vendors. The only way your business can be counted toward these goals is to become certified as a diverse supplier. WBE certification is an important marketing tool to expand your visibility among corporate decision makers and fellow business owners.
Fill out the form to receive A Guide to WBE Certification, which includes the step-by-step process on how to become certified and an overview of all the benefits of certification. You will also receive a bonus guide specifically for Austin women entrepreneurs with a comprehensive list of free and low-cost local resources.
National Presence
Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) Certification is recognized nationally through a partnership with the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). No matter where you go, there will be a network of women there to support you!
Sustaining (Corporate) Members Want to Meet You
There are over 75 Sustaining (Corporate) Members in the Women’s Business Council – Southwest who go the extra mile to do business with women entrepreneurs. The following are located in Austin:
- Austin Community College
- Austin Independent School District
- Capital Metro
- Dell Technologies
- Dunan Microstaq
- GSD&M
- Pearson
- Visa
Make Valuable Connections
You do not have to be a member to start getting involved with WBCS. We invite you to attend these quarterly local events, which are open to the public.
Trade Talk Austin
A bi-annual industry-focused event, featuring open networking and Sustaining (Corporate) Member remarks on industry trends and their supplier diversity initiatives. Held in January and October, the industries featured are construction and technology.
Connections to Contracts Austin
A corporate roundtable event, providing Women’s Business Enterprises an intimate opportunity to connect with Sustaining (Corporate) Members. The event begins with a networking breakfast. After breakfast, Sustaining (Corporate) Members host roundtable discussions with a focus on upcoming procurement opportunities and their supplier diversity programs.
Austin Insights
A premier evening event featuring an executive keynote presentation and networking reception. Women business owners, procurement professionals, government officials and community partners convene at this Austin area event to create valuable connections and discover upcoming business opportunities.
Certification Webinar
This on-demand webinar provides a brief overview of the benefits of certification and how to get started in the process. You will also learn about the educational and networking opportunities available from the Women’s Business Council – Southwest.
Contact Us!
Taylor Crosby
Executive Director, Marketing
(512) 815-2407