Ladies Who Launch: Philadelphia’s Best Women in Business Groups

• Entrepreneurship
• In the News
• July 25, 2025

Why Philadelphia’s Women Business Groups Are Essential for Success

Philadelphia women in business have access to an incredible ecosystem of support networks that can transform careers and accelerate growth. The city boasts over 1,745 certified Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) that collectively employ 52,000 workers, creating a powerful economic force that’s reshaping the local business landscape.

Top Philadelphia Women’s Business Groups:

• NAWBO Philadelphia – National advocacy and leadership development
• WBEC-East – WBE certification and supplier diversity connections
• FemCity Philadelphia – Holistic community for personal and professional growth
• Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection – Empowerment for underserved communities
• Sustainable Business Network – Triple bottom line focused networking

Whether you’re launching your first business or scaling an established firm, these organizations offer mentorship, funding opportunities, and the peer support needed to overcome common challenges like access to capital and navigating male-dominated industries.

As Nicole Farber, CEO of ENX2 Legal Marketing with over 15 years of experience helping businesses grow, we’ve witnessed how Philadelphia women in business thrive when they connect with the right networks and support systems. Through our work with law firms and small businesses across the region, we’ve seen these groups transform careers and create lasting partnerships that drive real results.

When we talk about the power of Philadelphia women in business, we’re not just discussing individual achievements; we’re highlighting a collective impact that strengthens our entire community. These groups provide a vital ecosystem where peer support, mentorship, and shared experiences become the bedrock of success.

A challenge women in business face, not just in Philadelphia but everywhere, is access to capital. Traditional funding avenues can often overlook women-led ventures. However, within these robust networks, we find not only guidance on how to steer the financial landscape but also connections to resources and even direct funding opportunities. For instance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides substantial grant funding for Women’s Business Centers, which directly supports these local initiatives.

Beyond funding, these groups offer invaluable skill development. From workshops on financial literacy to mastering business leadership strategies, women gain the tools they need to grow their ventures. We’ve seen countless entrepreneurs hone their pitching skills, refine their business plans, and learn to effectively market their services, all within a supportive, collaborative environment.

The economic impact of women-owned businesses in Philadelphia is undeniable. As the statistics show, these 1,745 certified WBEs employ 52,000 workers, contributing significantly to job creation and local economic vitality. But it’s not just about dollars and cents. Many of these businesses, particularly those within networks like the Sustainable Business Network (SBN), accept a “triple bottom line” approach, focusing on people, planet, and profit. This commitment to social impact means that women-owned businesses are often at the forefront of community building, sustainability efforts, and equitable practices.

We understand that juggling professional ambitions with personal life can be a unique challenge for many women. These networks often provide a space to discuss and steer work-life balance, sharing strategies and support for managing everything from childcare to personal well-being. It’s about empowering women to grow and live a happy life, not just succeed in business. We believe that true success encompasses both professional achievement and personal fulfillment. For more insights on leading effectively, we encourage you to explore our Business Leadership Strategies.

Top Networking Groups for Philadelphia Women in Business

Ready to dive into the amazing world of Philadelphia women in business? Our city is buzzing with incredible groups designed to lift up and empower women like you. These aren’t just your average networking events; they’re vibrant communities, full of support, resources, and friends who genuinely want to see you shine.

These organizations offer so much more than just a place to hand out business cards. They provide a vital community, important resources, and strong support systems. All of these are super important for growing your business and developing as a professional. If you’re curious about the bigger picture of starting and growing a business, our Entrepreneurship Category has tons of helpful information.

NAWBO Philadelphia: Advocacy and National Connections

The National Association of Women Business Owners, or NAWBO, is a true powerhouse! They speak up for over 9 million women-owned businesses across the country. Founded way back in 1975, NAWBO Philadelphia uses this huge national strength to offer amazing benefits right here in our local community. We’ve seen how their efforts help women entrepreneurs gain power in business, social circles, and even politics.

NAWBO Philadelphia always has a full calendar of events. Their “Power Friday Networking” sessions are super popular and are designed to help you make connections and grow your business. As a member, you get access to a national network of 5,000 businesses. Plus, you can join local leadership programs and even peer advisory groups. Many members share how NAWBO helped them expand their network, find clients and suppliers, and even find their voice to advocate for themselves. One member simply said, “Joining is one of the BEST decisions I ever made.” We truly suggest you check out everything they offer at NAWBO, Greater Philadelphia.

WBEC-East: The Power of Certification

For women entrepreneurs dreaming of working with big companies or government agencies, WBEC-East is a game-changer. This group helps you get certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). This certification is a respected credential that opens doors to special programs designed to help diverse suppliers.

The numbers don’t lie: 1,745 WBEs are certified in the WBEC-East area, and they employ a whopping 52,000 workers. Getting WBENC certified means you can access a national list of companies and government groups actively looking to work with women-owned businesses. We’re talking about big names like Bank of America, Aramark, the City of Philadelphia, Pfizer, and Jefferson Health! WBEC-East also offers helpful workshops, like “Maximizing Your WBE Certification” and “How to Get Certified.” They make sure you have all the tools to use this powerful certification. They even have an “Orientation & Business Assessment” workshop for new business owners. To see all the amazing benefits, take a look at Learn about the benefits of WBENC Certification.

FemCity Philadelphia: A Community for Holistic Growth

FemCity Philadelphia is so much more than just a networking group. It’s a special community built by women, for women, focused on growing every part of your life. Their goal goes beyond just business deals. They want to “arm members with everything needed to grow and live a happy life.” Now that’s a philosophy we can get behind!

This welcoming group offers different membership levels, including a free community option and a more involved business membership, so there’s something for everyone. FemCity Philadelphia hosts all kinds of local business and fun social events, giving you chances to make real connections and find genuine support. They proudly say, “We’re not your average Philadelphia women’s networking group,” and we totally agree. This focus on personal happiness alongside professional success creates a wonderfully strong and supportive environment. To join their community, hop over to the FemCity Philadelphia Facebook Group.

Sustainable Business Network (SBN): For the Socially-Conscious Entrepreneur

For Philadelphia women in business who truly want to make a positive difference in their community and for our planet, the Sustainable Business Network (SBN) is an ideal fit. SBN champions businesses that follow a “triple bottom line” approach. This means they care about people, planet, and profit equally.

This network highlights the super important role women-owned businesses play in our local economy, especially those committed to sustainable practices. They offer a great platform for businesses focused on social and environmental responsibility, building a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. SBN loves to celebrate its members who are leading the way in sustainable business, especially during Women’s History Month. If you’re building a green business or just want to support local, ethical companies, you can check out their directory of diverse businesses.

Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection (PWNC): Empowering Underserved Communities

The Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection (PWNC), along with its non-profit, the PWNC Foundation, Inc., has a special two-fold approach to empowering women entrepreneurs. This organization specifically helps women in underserved communities and those who are moving from corporate jobs to full-time business ownership.

PWNC provides essential training in business development, leadership, and even equity and inclusion. They team up with groups like the AARP Foundation for programs such as “Work for Yourself@50+.” This helps women start their own businesses and bring new life to their communities. We’ve seen how much they stress the value of business certifications (like EDWOSB, WBE, MBE) to open up more opportunities and reach wider markets. The PWNC truly builds a strong sense of community. Testimonials often praise their founder for her passion and how she builds networks that genuinely care about their members’ success. As they wisely put it, “We’re not just a business, we’re a community.”

Success Stories: Philly’s Inspiring Women Entrepreneurs

Philadelphia is a city built on grit, determination, and big dreams. Nowhere is this more evident than in the incredible stories of its women entrepreneurs. From groundbreaking startups to established empires, these inspiring Philadelphia women in business showcase remarkable resilience, strong leadership, and the power of a clear vision. They come from incredibly diverse industries, proving that with enough passion, anything is possible.

Learning from these remarkable individuals can truly light your path. Their journeys offer invaluable lessons on overcoming adversity and embracing innovation. If you’re looking to sharpen your own leadership skills, these stories are a fantastic starting point. For more in-depth advice, you might also explore our guide on How to Become an Effective Leader.

From Lab Accident to Lifesaving Fashion: The AmorSui Story

Imagine turning a truly terrifying personal accident into a thriving business that helps protect countless others. That’s exactly what Beau Wangtrakuldee did with AmorSui. While working on her chemistry doctorate, Beau suffered a chemical burn in the lab. This painful experience opened her eyes to a huge problem: there simply wasn’t comfortable, fashionable, or truly protective clothing available for women in STEM fields.

Driven by her own experience and the tragic loss of another scientist due to inadequate lab wear, Beau launched AmorSui right here in Philadelphia. Her startup journey, powered by her own savings and crowdfunding, tackles both safety and style head-on. The market for personal protective equipment (PPE) is massive, and Beau’s innovation provides a much-needed solution that makes women in labs feel both confident and secure. Her story is a powerful reminder of how adversity can spark incredible innovation. You can Read about this innovative Philly start-up.

Building an Empire from the Ground Up: The Bittenbender Construction Story

Emily Bittenbender’s path into the often male-dominated construction industry is nothing short of inspiring. She initially dreamed of being a fashion designer but quickly realized sewing wasn’t her strong suit! This early pivot led her to commercial interior design and, eventually, to managing multi-million dollar construction projects for the City of Philadelphia at a surprisingly young age.

Her career took a huge leap when then-Mayor Ed Rendell recognized her talent and recruited her. He saw her ability to bring a “private sector approach” to public projects. When Emily decided to launch Bittenbender Construction in 2003, she made serious personal sacrifices. She sold her home and even liquidated her 401ks to fund the venture. With a mindset of “if I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it right and go big,” she started with $300,000, which helped secure a $100,000 to $300,000 line of credit. Today, her company manages a $5 million line of credit and handles premium projects all over the city. Emily’s story shows incredible resilience and a courageous willingness to take smart risks to achieve big goals. We can all learn from her philosophy: “I started at a McDonald’s and I can go back to McDonald’s,” which perfectly captures her comfort with risk and her unwavering self-belief. Learn how Bittenbender’s Plan B worked out.

A Clean Start: The Donna Allie Story

Donna Allie, the brilliant founder of Team Clean Inc., truly embodies the ultimate rags-to-riches story for Philadelphia women in business. She started by simply cleaning houses in Bryn Mawr. From those humble beginnings, she built a multi-million dollar commercial cleaning empire that now employs 700 people and generates nearly $20 million in revenue.

Donna’s journey is filled with bold moves. Imagine promising 200 workers for a Veterans Stadium contract when you only have 8 employees – and then delivering! She credits much of her success to a relentless drive to learn. She devoured books on HR, bidding, and taxes, and soaked up every free seminar and training she could find, even getting advice from Wharton business students.

A strong champion for minority set-asides, Donna believes these programs gave her the crucial opportunities she needed. She said, “Thank God we had this, or I’d still be cleaning houses on the Main Line.” Her powerful message for other women is to “think big, dream big, and walk big.” She also advises running far away from anyone she calls “dream-snatchers” – those who bring negativity. Her no-nonsense advice and practical approach to entrepreneurship are incredibly inspiring. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and the right partnerships, truly anything is possible. You can Read how Donna Allie works to scrub away assumptions.

Kelly CG Edwards: Shaping Philadelphia’s Built Environment

Another inspiring figure among Philadelphia women in business is Kelly CG Edwards. As the Manager of Real Estate Operations at SEPTA and a 2023 “Women of Influence Rising Star,” Kelly is making a significant impact. At just 35, she’s at the forefront of major public transit initiatives, including the trolley modernization project, which aims to improve access for communities where a majority of the population are people of color. She’s also working on the Bus Revolution project, providing much-needed rest spaces for bus operators.

Kelly’s passion for urban planning and her deep commitment to making cities more accessible and equitable shines through in all her work. She’s not just acquiring properties; she’s carefully considering the social, environmental, and economic impacts of every decision. What we find especially inspiring is her dedication to empowering other women. She co-launched a seminar series focusing on how women experience the built environment and influence policy. She also makes a point of celebrating women’s achievements, no matter how small. For Kelly, her “Rolodex” – her professional network – is her proudest career accomplishment, truly highlighting the vital role connections play in achieving success.

Frequently Asked Questions about Philadelphia Women in Business

What are the biggest challenges for Philadelphia women in business?

While Philadelphia offers a wonderfully supportive environment for entrepreneurs, it’s also true that Philadelphia women in business still steer some unique problems. We’ve seen these challenges firsthand, and they often come up in conversations within our vibrant community.

One of the most significant is access to capital. Securing funding can feel like a maze. While resources are growing, women sometimes face unconscious biases or a tougher time connecting with venture capital and traditional lenders. It’s an ongoing effort to ensure equitable financial opportunities for everyone.

Then there’s the persistent issue of pay equity gaps. Even here in Philadelphia, women often earn less than men in similar roles. Advocating for fair pay isn’t just about individual salaries; it’s about valuing the immense contributions of women to our economy.

And let’s be honest, work-life balance is a constant juggle for many. Blending the demands of running a thriving business with family responsibilities, especially for single mothers, is a heroic feat. The need for affordable, quality childcare and genuinely flexible work arrangements is more critical than ever.

For women in fields like construction or certain STEM areas, navigating male-dominated industries can mean overcoming ingrained biases and working harder to establish credibility. Think of Emily Bittenbender’s journey – it takes incredible resilience and determination to break those barriers.

While our city boasts incredible groups, building the right support networks still requires effort. Finding those mentors and sponsors who truly open doors and provide strategic guidance is key to accelerating growth and overcoming challenges.

Finally, many brilliant Philadelphia women in business silently battle imposter syndrome. Despite their remarkable achievements, internal doubts can sometimes creep in, hindering confidence and growth. It’s a reminder that even the most successful among us benefit from strong, encouraging communities.

We firmly believe that sustained advocacy for policy changes, increased investment in women-led ventures, and continued emphasis on mentorship and community support within these business groups are crucial steps to addressing these challenges head-on.

How can I get my business certified as a woman-owned business (WBE) in Philadelphia?

Thinking about expanding your reach? Getting your business certified as a Woman Business Enterprise (WBE) through WBEC-East (part of the larger WBENC network) is a truly strategic move for Philadelphia women in business. We’ve seen how this certification acts as a powerful credential, opening up new avenues for growth.

The process itself is straightforward: you’ll typically go through an application, a thorough review of your documentation, and an on-site visit. The main goal is to verify that your business is at least 51% owned, controlled, and operated by one or more women. It’s a seal of approval that speaks volumes!

Once certified, a whole new world of opportunities opens up. You gain access to exclusive supplier diversity programs from large corporations and government agencies that are actively looking to partner with diverse businesses. This means more chances to bid on lucrative government opportunities and secure corporate contracts. Your business also gets increased visibility, being listed in national databases that procurement officers regularly check when seeking women-owned vendors.

Beyond direct contracts, organizations like WBEC-East offer fantastic educational programs. These workshops teach you how to best leverage your certification, master the art of bidding, and steer the often-complex world of corporate procurement. It’s not just a certification; it’s a toolkit for success. And it’s worth noting that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides substantial grant funding for Women’s Business Centers, further highlighting the value and support available for women pursuing this certification.

What industries are Philadelphia women in business most successful in?

You know, when we look at Philadelphia women in business, what truly stands out is their incredible success across so many different fields! It’s a testament to their versatility, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit. While women are thriving in every corner of the economy, we’ve certainly seen some sectors where they’re making a particularly strong impact.

Many Philadelphia women in business excel in professional services, from legal marketing (our own field!) to consulting, accounting, and financial advisement. The healthcare sector is another area where women hold strong leadership and innovation roles, whether in direct medical practices, administration, or developing new health solutions.

In Technology & STEM, despite historical biases, women are breaking ground. Think of Beau Wangtrakuldee with AmorSui, who turned a personal experience into an innovative protective lab wear company. Similarly, in construction & real estate, women like Emily Bittenbender are shattering glass ceilings and building empires in what were once considered male-only domains.

Social services & non-profits are rich with female leadership, driving impactful community initiatives and fostering positive change. And if you’ve ever enjoyed Philadelphia’s vibrant culinary scene, you’ve likely experienced the success of women in hospitality & food service, running fantastic restaurants, catering businesses, and event planning companies.

The cleaning & facilities management sector has seen monumental success stories, with Donna Allie’s Team Clean Inc. being a prime example of building a multi-million dollar business from the ground up. Women are also making waves in retail & consumer goods, creating innovative products and strong brands, and influencing our city’s arts & culture as leaders in museums, galleries, and creative enterprises. Plus, pioneers like Kelly CG Edwards are shaping our city’s future in public transit & urban planning at SEPTA.

This widespread success across diverse sectors truly highlights the dynamic and inclusive nature of Philadelphia’s business environment for women. And it’s especially inspiring to note the significant growth in female entrepreneurship overall, with Black women entrepreneurs being the fastest-growing demographic group, showcasing an incredible breadth of talent and determination right here in our city.

Conclusion

What an incredible journey we’ve taken through Philadelphia women in business! It’s clear that this city isn’t just a place to build a business; it’s a vibrant, supportive ecosystem where women empower each other to thrive. We’ve seen how groups like NAWBO, WBEC-East, FemCity, the Sustainable Business Network, and PWNC create a powerful community, offering everything from national advocacy and vital certifications to holistic growth and targeted support for underserved communities. They truly make a difference by providing the resources, connections, and encouragement every entrepreneur needs.

The inspiring stories we’ve shared — from Beau Wangtrakuldee’s innovative leap in lab safety, to Emily Bittenbender’s groundbreaking success in construction, Donna Allie’s remarkable journey in cleaning services, and Kelly CG Edwards shaping our city’s transit — are more than just anecdotes. They are powerful testaments to resilience, vision, and the sheer force of will that defines Philadelphia women in business. These women aren’t just building successful ventures; they’re shaping our city’s economy, creating jobs, and leaving a lasting social impact.

For anyone looking to make their mark, the message is clear: taking action is the key. Whether it’s joining a new networking group, pursuing a vital certification, or simply connecting with fellow entrepreneurs, every step forward fuels continued growth. As Nicole Farber, with over 15 years of experience helping businesses grow, I’ve seen how powerful these connections can be. My own journey as a single mother and business leader has taught me the immense value of real-life experience and faith-driven leadership. If you’re ready for personalized guidance on your entrepreneurial path, I offer Women Entrepreneur Coaching designed to help you steer challenges and celebrate triumphs. And if your next event needs an uplifting, inspiring voice, I invite you to Bring an inspiring voice to your next event. Together, we can continue to launch, lead, and build an incredible legacy for Philadelphia women in business.