The Small Business Association (SBA) recognized the Women’s Business Alliance (WBA) North as the Women’s Business Center of the year. This subgroup of the Entrepreneur Fund, a nonprofit organization based in Duluth, provides advice and funding accessibility for small businesses. The WBA North Center serves the Arrowhead region of Minnesota and Douglas County, Wisconsin.
The center was commended for its dedication to training, educating, and counseling culturally diverse women entrepreneurs like Lorena Velez, owner of Mexico Lindo restaurant. Velez took over the restaurant in 2020 amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic but was determined to succeed. As a minority woman, she felt that some people doubted her abilities but proved them wrong by working hard and seeking opportunities to learn and grow.
Velez credits part of her success to the support she received from the WBA North Center which helped her navigate the challenges of running a business and achieve a 10-12% growth in customers every year. Sandi Larson, Director of WBA North highlighted the center’s role in supporting women in the region and celebrating their achievements. Velez encourages other women entrepreneurs to seek help and guidance emphasizing that asking for assistance when needed is important.
The success of women-owned businesses like Mexico Lindo is a testament to organizations like WBA North in empowering female entrepreneurs and fostering growth in the business community. By providing resources, support, and guidance these organizations are helping women overcome challenges and achieve their goals in
