Waste management has long been a man’s game, a dog-eat-dog game at that. But women-owned, SBC Waste Solutions, has changed the rules, and is winning.

Lawsuits against supplier diversity programs fail to recognize the value to the overall economy. It’s not just diverse-owned businesses that benefit, it’s everyone.

The 2024 Impact of Women-Owned Businesses—an inaugural report—chronicles the impact of COVID-19 on US businesses and how it opened opportunities for women. It highlights the growth of women-owned businesses from 2019 to 2023, especially those owned by women of color, and explores the intersection of gender with race, business size, industry, and geography.

Veterans know how to face down challenges and solve problems, which is why they make good entrepreneurs. But funders may not see that when the veteran is a woman.

By keeping interest rates low and providing training and other support, CDFIs and technical assistance programs help small businesses—especially minority- and women-owned—succeed. Companies like Prudential Financial fund capital and service providers.

Women entrepreneurs don’t have to be afraid to take on debt, if they work with the right partners, such as CDFIs that are dedicated to helping small business owners.