Greenwood Women's Business Center (GBC) Receives Proclamation from City of Tulsa, Declaring March 13, 2024 as GBC InnovateHER Women's Summit Day -

[TULSA, March 26, 2024] – The Greenwood Women’s Business Center (GBC) is thrilled to announce that the City of Tulsa has issued a proclamation, officially recognizing March 13, 2024, as GBC InnovateHER Women’s Summit Day. Presented during the 2nd Inaugural InnovateHER Summit, this proclamation celebrates the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs and their invaluable contributions to our community, particularly during Women’s History Month.

Founded in 2021 in partnership with the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., the Historic Greenwood Black Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), GBC is dedicated to supporting diverse women entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey. From startup to maturity, we provide essential information, tools, and resources designed to accelerate their visions and drive success.

“The Greenwood Women’s Business Center is an important resource partner helping us start and grow small businesses across Northeast Oklahoma, Wimberly Condren, SBA Oklahoma Deputy District Director said. “In a short period of time, the Women’s Business Center has increased opportunities and recovery solutions for women entrepreneurs throughout the Tulsa, Oklahoma metropolitan area.”

Donna Jackson, Program Director of GBC, expressed her gratitude for the proclamation, stating, “As a native Tulsan born in the only north Tulsa hospital located on Greenwood, I am deeply committed to our city. This proclamation holds special significance, recognizing the vital role GBC plays in empowering women entrepreneurs and contributing to Tulsa’s vibrant business community.”

The 2nd Inaugural InnovateHER Summit featured inspiring keynote speakers such as Ashli Sims, Managing Director at Build In Tulsa; Nicole Barton, Owner & Photographer at Nicole Barton Photography; Erica Kesse, Founder and Coach of Your Goal Concierge; Cindi Carter, Economic Development Specialist/Native American Affairs Specialist at U.S. Small Business Administration; and Ayris T. Scales, SVP, Social Responsibility & Global Initiatives at Nareit.

Sponsored by Tinker Federal Credit Union, American Bank of Oklahoma, Thryv Foundation, Bank of Oklahoma, and QuikTrip, the event brought together over 300 people who participated in the enlightening business workshops, delicious lunch, vendor expo, and more. This world-class gathering provided a unique opportunity for local businesswomen to connect, network, uplift, and scale alongside like-minded entrepreneurs.

During the Summit, GBC proudly recognized the below honorees who demonstrated exemplary diversity, leadership, and dedication in their respective fields, inspiring others with their achievements. The awards ceremony at the GBC Summit celebrated their contributions to society and served as a testament to their remarkable accomplishments.

“Maxine Horner” Lifetime Achievement Award: Shannon Eddington, Founder of Deeply Rooted
Innovator of the Year: Kayla Lee, Architect and Founder of Lee Simon Design
Community Champion: Raittia Rogers, Author of “I Broke Out of Prison”
Entrepreneur of the Year: Kim Roxie, Founder of LAMIK
Woman Under 30: Shelby Stephens, Founder of Moms Closet

Alisa Joseph, Vice President and Director of Programs at U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., highlighted GBC’s significant impact, stating, “GBC’s ability to counsel over 1300 businesses connecting them with invaluable tools, resources, and information is truly remarkable. GBC is instrumental in advancing entrepreneurs’ enterprises and fostering economic growth in our community.”

For more information about Greenwood Women’s Business Center and upcoming events, visit http://greenwoodwbc.org/. You are also welcome to visit the center at the following address: 102 N. Greenwood Avenue, Ste 200, 2nd Floor, Tulsa, OK 74120.

###

About Greenwood Women’s Business Center- Tulsa

The GBC aids a variety of women entrepreneurs throughout their business journeys, spanning from inception to maturity. We equip them with tailored information, tools, and resources to amplify their aspirations. Through a combination of technical assistance, shared services, and counseling—both in-person and virtually—we guide women business owners through the array of opportunities, empowering them to expand their firms, employ staff, and emerge as community leaders. Partially funded through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, our center stands as a beacon of support for women’s entrepreneurial endeavors. Learn more at http://greenwoodwbc.org/.