Hagerstown, Maryland (DC News Now) — For 50 years, communities across the United States have observed National Small Business Week.
This year, Western Maryland is showcasing female entrepreneurship.
Nationwide, more than 16 million businesses have been launched in the past five years alone. However, less than one in four companies is run by women.
“The juvenile is presumed to be the person responsible,” said Chandra Metz, owner of C&M Lawn Care. “That has to be thrown out the window. I can’t tell you how many times a week I get a call asking if I can talk to the owner, but I’m like, ‘This is the person.'”
Hagerstown is celebrating the week with a big showcase of women business owners.
“At least half of the businesses downtown are owned by women,” said Brittany Arizmendi, engagement officer for the city of Hagerstown. “They have ideas and as entrepreneurs they can make those ideas a reality here.”
Melissa DiMercurio is a marketing specialist who teaches small business owners how to be competitive and shares her perspective with female entrepreneurs.
“Go out for coffee or lunch with your competitors and talk about common challenges and successes,” DiMercurio said. “Let’s cooperate with each other.”
Sherry McIntyre is a downtown business owner. She launched The Alpine Plant Bar, which specializes in fine cocktails. She says now is a good time to take the plunge as an entrepreneur.
“If you’re interested in starting a business, I think downtown Hagerstown is the place to be right now,” McIntyre said. “There’s a lot of energy and a lot of buzz and it can be overwhelming and challenging, but it’s definitely worth it.”
Women interested in becoming an entrepreneur should contact the Washington County Greater Hagerstown Chamber of Commerce and click here. here.
