Did you hear the buzz ? A group of women business leaders has created a new organization for women business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders. We think there’s a huge need in our community for an
interactive organization that helps women grow booming businesses.

Women in Washtenaw County are starting and growing businesses at a spectacular rate. Statistics from the Center for Women’s Business Research show that for the past two decades majority women-owned firms
in the US have grown at around two times the rate of all firms (42% vs. 24%). Today women-owned firms account for 41% of all privately held firms. Women-owned companies and women executives in Washtenaw County are contributing greatly to our local economy. They are also redefining the workplace, our local business culture, and previous notions of business networks.

…………………………

What do local women-owned firms need?

Women-owned companies and women executives in Washtenaw County need an organization that is driven by and responsive to their unique needs. They need an organization that helps them get started, grow, evolve, and become long-term, viable, vibrant businesses. They need an organization that helps them navigate the business world by providing resources, education, events, and opportunities for networking,
connections, and collaborations.

The Women’s Exchange of Washtenaw seeks to fill the needs of women-owned firms and women executives, so those women can do what they do best: create ideas, jobs, business partnerships, booming companies, and make vital contributions to the strength of the Ann Arbor region.

…………………………

WXW Mission - Why do we exist?

The mission of the Women’s Exchange of Washtenaw (WXW) is to organize, encourage, support, educate, and strengthen the businesswomen in our region by providing a venue for business connections, skill-building, professional support, and growth.

The WXW is a volunteer-driven program of the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce. Events are fee-based with Chamber members receiving a discount similar to the current Morning Edition and Networks framework. In addition, we are supported by local sponsors.

…………………………

WXW Vision – What do we want to become?

In 5 years, the WXW will be the premier organization for women in business in Washtenaw Country. Because the women of the WXW are a connected, collaborative, supportive, and unified group, they build
strong companies, attract national and global business, and bolster our local and regional economy.

…………………………

WXW Goals - What do we want to accomplish?

• Provide a venue for networking, referrals, and relationship building.
• Conduct interactive, participatory events where meeting content is driven and created by the
  participants rather than fully planned by a group of organizers in advance.
• Connect, support and assist women business owners, entrepreneurs, and decision makers in establishing and achieving their business goals.
• Lead advocacy efforts to support the best interest of women business owners, entrepreneurs, and decision makers.