NAWBO Iowa Advocacy

Power Your Voice

Since 1975, NAWBO has been the voice of women business owners—making sure we are at the table with key decision makers on Capitol Hill and speaking out on the issues that are most important, plus empowering our local chapter leaders and members to do the same in their states and communities across the U.S. To best represent the diversity within our membership, all the business advocacy issues we engage in are bipartisan in nature.

Read more about this year’s Advocacy Agenda.

Advocacy in Iowa

Since its founding in 1986, NAWBO Iowa has been actively advocating for women business owners across the state. 

Key Challenges for Women-Owned Business in Iowa

Women business owners in Iowa face several unique challenges that can hinder their entrepreneurial success. These obstacles are multifaceted, encompassing financial, social, and structural barriers.

1. Limited Access to Capital

Access to financing remains a significant hurdle. Women often encounter difficulties in securing loans and venture capital. They are more likely to be discouraged from applying for credit due to fears of rejection, and when they do apply, they receive smaller loan amounts compared to their male counterparts. Additionally, women frequently rely on personal assets, such as credit cards, to fund their businesses, which can lead to financial instability. The Gazette 

2. Discrimination and Gender Bias

Many women entrepreneurs report experiencing discrimination and stereotypes that undermine their credibility and business prospects. These biases can manifest in various forms, from undervaluation of their business ideas to challenges in networking and securing partnerships. Such systemic barriers contribute to the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles and can impede business growth. Fearless 

3. Balancing Work and Family Responsibilities

The dual responsibility of managing a business and fulfilling family obligations presents a significant challenge. In Iowa, approximately 53,000 women have left the workforce since 2020 due to a lack of affordable childcare options. This shortage not only affects women's participation in the workforce but also their ability to dedicate time and resources to their businesses. GovInfo+1sbc.senate.gov+1 

4. Limited Representation in Leadership

Women remain underrepresented in leadership positions across various sectors. In Iowa, the percentage of women in leadership roles is lower compared to many other states, which can limit mentorship opportunities and the visibility of women as role models in business. The Gazette 

5. Inadequate Support Systems

While there are resources available, many women entrepreneurs report that they are not fully aware of or do not have access to the support systems designed to assist them. Programs that offer business counseling, financial education, and networking opportunities are crucial but may not be sufficiently promoted or accessible to all women across the state. 

Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from both public and private sectors to create an inclusive and supportive environment for women entrepreneurs in Iowa. By implementing policies that promote equitable access to resources, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, Iowa can foster a more robust entrepreneurial ecosystem for women.

Legislation that supports women-owned businesses

Legislation that most effectively supports women-owned businesses typically addresses the systemic barriers these entrepreneurs face—such as access to capital, government contracting opportunities, and business development resources. Here are several legislative approaches that can be especially supportive:

Resources

State/Local Resources

Federal Resources

CONTACT NAWBO IOWA ADVOCACY

Co-Directors

Rachel Formaro, [email protected]
Char Austin, [email protected]