While women-owned businesses are growing, reports show sustained efforts required to keep momentum
A new research brief from the University of Southern California highlights California’s national leadership in women-owned businesses, finding that the state is home to 1.5 million women-led companies — more than any other state — among other key insights. The report was prepared for the CalChamber Women’s Leadership Council and was presented at the council’s forum in Sacramento yesterday.
“The impact of women on California’s economy is undeniable, with nearly 40 percent of all businesses in the state being women-owned,” said Jennifer Barrera, president and CEO of CalChamber. “Women-owned businesses are significant contributors to the state’s economy, having added $580 billion in revenue between 2019–2023. When people talk about business in California, the face of business also includes a large number of successful women.”
The forum brought together elected officials, local influencers and business leaders from across the state. It began with a research presentation by Katherine Aguilar Perez of USC and was followed by a vibrant discussion moderated by Barrera, featuring a panel of dynamic women leaders, including:
- Dee Dee Myers – Senior Advisor to the Governor and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
- Maryam Brown – CEO of SoCalGas and current Chair of the CalChamber Board of Directors.
- Raji Brar – COO of Countryside Corporation and Co-Chair of the Women’s Leadership Council.
- Brenda Rejamand – CEO and Founder of BD Tax & Finance Group Inc. and Past Chair of the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
“The research is clear — women are making remarkable gains in business ownership and in corporate leadership and board positions,” said Perez. “When women are in executive and leadership positions, it fosters opportunity and growth for women across all levels of business.”
Based on several recent comprehensive reports, recommendations to support women-owned businesses include the following actions:
- Support inclusive policies in California and reduce barriers to women owning businesses.
- Continue research focused on women business needs and the impact of women on California’s business environment.
- Raise awareness of financing options and investment opportunities to increase women’s access to capital.
- Support networks for women business owners, increase contracting opportunities.
“CalChamber is proud to support women in business, and we look forward to ongoing work that incorporates the recommendations that will continue to uplift women in business,” Barrera added.
The California Chamber of Commerce established the Women’s Leadership Council (WLC), a subcommittee of the CalChamber Board of Directors, to elevate the voice of women in business. Chaired by Donna L. Lucas, CEO and founder of Lucas Public Affairs, with Raji K. Brar, COO and co-owner of Countryside Corporation, serving as vice chair, the WLC brings together accomplished leaders from across industries to strengthen the presence and impact of California’s women business leaders. The council fosters connections with key decision makers in state government and highlights the vital contributions of women to the state’s economy. For more information and a full list of council members, visit calchamber.com/wlc.
About CalChamber
The California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) is the largest broad-based business advocate to government in California. Membership represents one-quarter of the private sector jobs in California and includes firms of all sizes and companies from every industry within the state. Leveraging our front-line knowledge of laws and regulations, we provide products and services to help businesses comply with both federal and state law. CalChamber, a not-for-profit organization with roots dating to 1890, promotes international trade and investment in order to stimulate California’s economy and create jobs. Please visit our website at www.calchamber.com.
