CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A new study by Wells Fargo ranks the top 10 states for women-owned businesses. North Carolina snagged the second spot on the list, just behind New York.
The report says the Tar Heel State offers a plethora of financing, training and marketing support.
Dawn Nicole McIlwain, the founder of Queen City Women in Business, said the ranking isn’t surprising.
“They can turn their talents and gifts into a business,” McIlwain said. “Those cities are known for something, like Charlotte and banking and Raleigh for tech. In North Carolina, people who worked in those services are coming out of the corporate world and taking that talent and turning it into a business of their own."
For Annabelle Johnson, it's all about the can-do attitude.
Johnson started Shop Homewurk online and jumped in feet first. She quit her job during the pandemic and poured her entire self into the business.
Johnson's online store grew in traction for years and she just opened a brick and mortar store in South End. She didn't know there would be a line out the door, but was inspired from the beginning.
“There were so many female-led businesses and I was like that’s so cool, if they can do it, I can do it," Johnson said.
It can be a difficult leap for some, but there are resources in North Carolina for those looking to launch their own company. Queen City Women in Business offers mentorships and can connect entrepreneurs with funding and grants to get their businesses off the ground. Mecklenburg County also provides assistance through a new program for women- and minority-owned small businesses.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.
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