Women Entrepreneurs Benefit From Corporate Gift.

According to the United States Small Business Administration, the 9.1 million women-owned businesses in the U.S. contribute more than $3.6 trillion dollars to the American economy.

Women’s Enterprise Development Corporation (WEDC) was founded in 1991 to provide education, training, and assistance to the thousands of women entrepreneurs in California.

Because of its history and commitment to furthering the economic development of women-owned businesses, the Union Bank of California Foundation has awarded the WEDC a $5,000 grant.

“Women entrepreneurs still face many unique obstacles that hinder their chances at business success,” said Carl Ballton, president of the UBOC Foundation. “Women’s Enterprise Development Corporation is vital in encouraging women to explore business opportunities and giving them the tools they need to step out into the world of entrepreneurship. We target a portion of our giving to non-profit organizations like WEDC, to support their efforts, and help build and strengthen the communities in which our customers live and work.”

WEDC is a private, non-profit organization that provides entrepreneurial assistance through business courses, one-on-one counseling, publications, and interactive workshops. It provides practical information needed to launch, manage and grow a successful business.

“At Women’s Enterprise Development Corporation, we believe very firmly that by nurturing both aspiring and established entrepreneurs, we can help women from all cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds help their businesses grow and thrive,” said WEDC Executive Director Dr. Phil Borden. “As a non-profit organization, WEDC is funded by donations from corporations, foundations, government agencies, and individuals. Thanks to the support of organizations like the Union Bank of California Foundation, we are able to keep the course fees for our seminars and programs within the financial reach of most start-up and fledgling entrepreneurs. The Foundation’s pattern of corporate giving is a great model for other businesses, and WEDC is proud to be a recipient of this grant.”