Empowering Women in Business: Launch of First Federally Recognized Women’s Business Center in South Los Angeles

The launch of the first federally recognized Women’s Business Center at the Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC) in South Los Angeles was recently attended by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. This new center aims to support and empower women entrepreneurs in the area, providing resources and guidance to help them succeed in their business ventures.

According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses contribute over 40% of the U.S. economic output, with more than 17.5 million new business applications filed since President Biden took office. In California alone, there have been 1.7 million new business applications, largely driven by people of color and women who are starting businesses at higher rates than men.

The Women’s Business Center at VSEDC will play a crucial role in supporting the growth of women-owned businesses in South Los Angeles by providing access to resources, training, and networking opportunities. By empowering women entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and achieve success in their ventures, the center aims to contribute significantly to the region’s economic development. Mayor Bass and Administrator Guzman expressed their support for the center’s mission to empower women in business during the launch event.