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Womens Business Center Earns Top Recognition from SBA

Prime Highlights

  • Cornerstone Alliance Women’s Business Center was awarded the 2024 Michigan Women’s Business Center of Excellence by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
  • The recognition honors the Center’s positive influence on the entrepreneurial economy in Southwest Michigan.

Key Facts

  • During 2024, the WBC assisted more than 450 entrepreneurs, launched 14 new businesses, and generated 328 jobs.
  • The Center supported 15 entrepreneurs in securing nearly $850,000 in capital investment.

Key Background:

Cornerstone Alliance’s Women’s Business Center is now a force to be reckoned with when it comes to small business development and women’s entrepreneurship in the region of Southwest Michigan. Due to its commendable efforts, the U.S. Small Business Administration recognized the WBC as the 2024 Michigan Women’s Business Center of Excellence Award. The recognition is extremely desirable since it rewards the Center for its approach to promoting economic opportunity and innovation in women-owned businesses.

Throughout 2024, the WBC had great impact. Assisting more than 450 entrepreneurs, the Center facilitated the launch of 14 new companies and the retention of 328 jobs in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. It assisted 15 entrepreneurs in gaining access to nearly $850,000 in capital—fostering business development and sustainability within the area.

Not only is the Center an advisory center, but also a networking and education site. With specialized training, one-on-one advising, and collaborative activities, the WBC empowers women to overcome the barriers typical of starting or growing a business. Its business model and customer-centered philosophy have made the WBC a go-to destination among local entrepreneurs.

Brandy Jaquez, a senior WBC leader, described what the Center does goes beyond numbers—it’s doors and community to women to be economically successful. She urged prospective and existing businesswomen to avail themselves of WBC programs with wonderful advice and peer networking.

With it on the verge of publishing its 2024 Impact Report, the WBC’s ongoing dedication to economic inclusion and community revitalization is clear. Its SBA recognition not only testifies to its history of success but also indicates faith in its future as a regional women-in-business leader.