Honoring Women-Owned Businesses

October is National Women’s Small Business Month, a time to celebrate the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs and reflect on what it takes to build a successful business.
 
At Reach Partners, we’ve spent years growing our business and supporting others along the way. In the spirit of this month, and with a focus on securing new projects, we want to share insights from our own journey while spotlighting women-owned businesses in our network.
 
One of the greatest lessons we’ve learned over and over is that no one succeeds alone. Surrounding yourself with capable, knowledgeable, and inspiring people is a key part of the formula for success. I’m grateful daily for the leadership and excellence shown to me by Anita.
 
By surrounding yourself in a network of women entrepreneurs, you create a support system that has the potential to lift everyone higher. Partnerships can unlock new opportunities and help women-led businesses grow stronger together.

We’ve identified characteristics that help women thrive in business. Here are the traits we believe are essential to succeed in business and some of the women who embody them:
 
Ambition: Success starts with a deep sense of purpose and the determination to reach beyond the ordinary. We look to women like:

• Nikki Bergland, Owner Luna, Sol Avenue Kitchen, mangata wine & raw bar, Luna Market, Unicorn Park Fine Foodery, and the House of Noods + Buns
• Lisa Schwinden, PGA Master Professional - Golf with Lisa
• Amanda McKinnon Shilling, Owner Mint Brand Marketing

 
Curiosity: These women always ask questions, seek out new knowledge, and embrace learning opportunities:

• Jodee Bock, Visionary Get REAL with Jodee Bock
• Emily Williams Wheeler, Artist Studio E
• Erin Hemme Froslie, Owner Whistle Editorial
• Brandi Malarkey, Artist It’s All Malarkey

 
Confidence: Believe in your skills, expertise, and value, even when doubts creep in. We look up to these women who stand in their confidence:

• Lora Elfstrum, Owner Sir Speedy
• Linda Hinrichs & Loretta Binfet, Co-Owners Small Business Accounting Services FM LLC
• Carrie Brusven, Owner Gathered Boutique Rentals

 
Trust and Respect: Integrity and respect are foundational to building lasting relationships with clients and partners.

• Aimee Schwartzwalter, CPA Balance Tax and Accounting
• Dr. Lizette Sunde, Owner Complete Physical Therapy and Wellness
• Cassie Wiste, Owner Great Harvest Bread Company
• Kristi Krebs, Owner Krebs Candy Co

 
Bravery: Stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for growth. Take the bold steps needed to make your vision a reality. Few people match the courage of:

• Amena Chaudry, Owner Zarafa Consulting (also, if you haven’t tried her sourdough, you’re missing out!)
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Activation and Achievement: Women who succeed take action. They turn ideas into results through persistence and hard work. These women also activate others:

• Melissa Marshall & Sarah West Dale, Owners Dale Carnegie
• Melissa Olson, Owner Hatchet House of Bemidji

 
Patience: Patience and a willingness to learn allow people to grow and adapt in the face of challenges. We’re proud to acknowledge these women:

• Sifa Ntivu, Owner Adibon Catering  
• Tara Welter, Owner Carried Away Bath
• Megan Lewis, Owner Milk Made

 
Choosing to partner with other women-owned businesses not only supports their growth but also strengthens your own. These collaborations foster mutual success, create shared opportunities, and build a powerful community of women who are there to uplift each other.
 
As we celebrate National Women’s Small Business Month, let’s continue to lift up one another, share knowledge, and build networks that foster success. Women entrepreneurs are redefining what it means to lead, and together, we can create a future where more women-owned businesses thrive.
 
At Reach Partners, we’re proud to be part of this movement, and we look forward to continuing to grow, inspire, and support women business leaders in our network.
 
– Rachel