senate resolution no.86

Senator LaSata offered the following resolution:

A resolution to recognize October 2019 as Women’s Small Business Month.

Whereas, October is a time to celebrate the growth and accomplishments of women entrepreneurs and small business owners, while also supporting efforts to increase the awareness of the value of women-owned small businesses; and

Whereas, There are over 29,000 Michigan small businesses owned by women which employ over a quarter-million citizens in the Great Lakes State; and

Whereas, Between 2014 and 2019, women-owned businesses in Michigan were rated as one of the highest in the country for workforce growth, firm expansion, and increased revenue; and

Whereas, Michigan was recently known as one of the top five best states for women to start a small business, proving our state's dedication to a business-friendly environment; and

Whereas, Nationally, there are an estimated 11,600,000 women-owned businesses in the United States that employ nearly 9 million individuals and generate more than $1.7 trillion in revenue; and

Whereas, Women-owned businesses in the United States account for 39 percent of all businesses, employ 8 percent of the total private sector workforce, and contribute 4.2 percent of total business revenue; and

Whereas, Women-owned businesses had a growth rate of two and a half times the national average, growing 114 percent between 1997 and 2017; and

Whereas, Women-owned small businesses play an important role in our economy and encourage growth in our communities; and

Whereas, In cooperation with the Small Business Administration and local partners, Small Business Centers, and Women’s Business Centers, it is important to equip businesswomen with the skills they need to succeed, while also aiding in the enhancement of entrepreneurial development across our state; and

Whereas, We appreciate all women entrepreneurs whose small businesses contribute to the growth of our state and who continue to make it a great place to live, work, and raise a family; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body recognize October 2019 as Women’s Small Business Month; and be it further

Resolved, That we strongly encourage all Michigan residents to support women-owned small businesses so they continue to thrive in the future.