Creating your own business requires a unique idea, some sincere passion, and a true team, as our WHOA co-founders Danielle Thornton and Allison Fleece have figured out themselves. This dynamic duo met on Kilimanjaro and turned their dream to travel into a career. Together, they have created a strong network of kick-ass women from around the world who have a passion for adventure and continue to encourage each other to reach their highest aspirations.
With the rise of women pursuing a career in business and the growing, powerful spirit of female entrepreneurship, women owned businesses like ourselves are on the high rise. Between 1997 and 2007, the number of women-owned businesses grew by 44%, twice as fast as men-owned firms, and they added roughly 500,000 jobs to the market. According to the US Department of Commerce, women prefer to work in sectors that benefit local communities, such as public health and education services, while men lean towards large corporate sectors that have shifted overseas in recent years.
Yet with the majority of large scale firms still owned and operated by men, there is a hard-shelled, male dominated network that's difficult to crack. Despite certain barriers, women continue to show up, defy the odds, and make their mark. Successful women owned businesses have certainly become an inspiration to others intending to venture into similar careers, and because of this, these fierce female-run companies have reached incredible new heights.
Check out this infographic that illustrates 7 incredible facts about women-owned businesses!