Strong Women Make a Strong Economy!

Strong Women Make a Strong Economy!

As we hear about the steady rate of unemployment – or, in some cases, how the percentage has increased for the worse – we might start to feel like a turn-around for the economy is not just around the corner. Americans are worried and rightfully so, with unemployment rates hanging on around 8% for the past six months (ncsl.org) and many unable to find work even after having looked for months. However grim the prospect may seem, there is good news – entrepreneurs and small businesses which have started growing are giving people the opportunities they need and can't find in bigger companies.

The most startling – and impressive – fact is that women are contributing a massive amount to growing the job pool and providing opportunities for millions of Americans. According to Allison Silver of the AmEx Open forum, "women owned businesses employ 40% more people than the three largest employers combined" – and this includes McDonald's, IBM, and Wal-mart! That means there are 8.3 million women-owned businesses in the US, which is more than the amount of citizens in 50% of the world's countries (AmEx Open Forum). A staggering number, but it just goes to show how driven women are and just how much of a difference we can make in the community!

As women-owned businesses take off, we need a way to connect with each other and network, to share advice, tips, and our stories. All people thrive and motivate each other, but women especially need this sort of network, deriving strength and optimism from each other. Meet-up groups and networking events aimed specifically for women entrepreneurs and mompreneurs are starting to catch on, but we still have a long ways to go. That's why I started Queen Bee's – to give my home city, Charlotte, a steady networking group where women could come together and share, help each other, and just have a good time! Hopefully as time goes on, women-owned businesses will continue to get recognition for the truly awesome things we've done – there's some super strong ladies out there and I can attest to that!

If you're one of the many Americans still out of work and still looking – don't give up hope. Keep yourself visible by going to networking events and make friends and connections that will last years to come. Who knows? The best place to get started might be at a women entrepreneurs' group!

About Leap of Faith Clothing

Leap of Faith Clothing is located in Charlotte, NC, and is a line of boys’ and girls’ clothing - specifically CAPEtees, T-shirts with a velcro attached cape that will make any kid feel like a superhero! We also produce baby products such as bibs and onesies, and a line of pet tees!

For more information or to check out our products, visit us out online at www.leapoffaithclothing.com or follow us on Twitter @lofclothing!