About the Co-Founders    Meet the Executive Director
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We are unique - in our purpose, our structure, our agenda, our accomplishments, and, yes, in our membership. We have been described as "coloring outside the box" because we take a fresh approach to problem solving. As a result, KC-CWBO has created "win-win" solutions to issues affecting women business owners, thereby benefiting not only our members but also all women who own businesses.

Purpose of the KC-CWBO To create a forum specifically for seasoned women business owners in Kansas City: The opportunity to better the business climate for women business owners by capitalizing on members collective influence, contacts, and knowledge in a braintrust that focuses on making changes to the system; The opportunity to be part of an identifiable entity so that business leaders, the media, and politicians know where to go when issues arise that affect women business owners, or when they are looking to do business with WBOs; The opportunity to meet, get to know, and do business with other women who also own larger businesses. Goals of the KC-CWBO The specific goals will change as time passes, and as we accomplish them. The current goals are: To improve the procurement and certification processes of city, state, and corporations so that all women business owners have better access. To become more politically aware and informed about how public policy issues directly affect our businesses. To positively influence the representation of women serving on paid corporate boards and boards of influence. Activities of the KC-CWBO Compared to other organizations, we operate somewhat differently. For instance, we do NOT have monthly meetings! We meet as needed, in these formats: In-depth Issues Meetings: These are about 4 hours in length so that we can get deep into a particular issue (based on our goals, above) with a subject matter expert, with the outcome being a plan of action or solution. These usually happen every other year, and provide not only education for our members, but also set out the activities and direction for the upcoming 18 months. General Planning Sessions: Shorter meetings to gain input / insight / direction from members on specific issues or challenges as they come up during the course of the KC-CWBO carrying out its goals. Networking or special meetings: As members request and opportunities arise. For instance, a small group meeting with the Mayor; a delegation going to Jefferson City for recognition of the KC-CWBO work at the state level; collaborative meetings with other organizations; or just a relaxing open house at a member's place of business or home. Protege For A Day Entrepreneur Auction:?? A??high-energy, "live auction-style" event at which a select group of leading Kansas City entrepreneurial individuals have agreed to donate a day of his or her time to be awarded to the highest bidder. This fun event provides an opportuntiy for you to have one-on-one access to the best and brightest entrepreneurial minds in the area! The meetings are planned so that maximum use is made of the time, incorporating some serious (but fun!) networking and interaction among the members. The meetings include roundtable discussions, presentation of research, interaction with issue experts, brainstorming sessions, and getting down to the "nitty-gritty" as we create solutions and opportunities. There is never and "extra" charge for members to attend these meetings. Our Collaborative Approach When you join KC-CWBO, you are also becoming a member of two national organizations, paid for in your name out of your KC-CWBO dues. They are: Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) is the nation's largest bi-partisan public policy organization that advocates for and on behalf of women business owners and women in business on economic issues. We rely on WIPP as our primary point of contact to educate us about, get our opinions on, and keep us abreast of public policy issues at the federal level. The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) is a 28-year old organization, with 80 chapters nationwide. NAWBO has been very influential over the years in providing leadership training and business management skill building for women business owners. We know it is important to support what has gone on before us, and to retain close ties to NAWBO. Our existence is mutually beneficial. That is why, as part of joining KC-CWBO, you are also supporting and joining NAWBO national as well as the local Kansas City chapter. (For more information on each of these, visit the "Affiliate Organizations" page.)