Join Us!

Network: Connect with professionals at regular meetups and events to grow your business and build meaningful relationships. Share information about your company or non-profit with WBO peers and tap into the power of referrals when your fellow women business owners champion your work. Gain valuable insights and feel the encouragement from women in a variety of fields with diverse perspectives and experiences.

Learn: Expand your knowledge and skills through in-person and virtual events, workshops, and “power hours.” WBO members can share their expertise by leading sessions, and we also invite community leaders and industry experts to provide valuable insights on topics relevant to women entrepreneurs.

Share: Our members want to celebrate your successes and stand by you through business challenges. As one long-time member shared, “When my friends, family, employees, and therapist are all tired of hearing me talk about my business, my friends in WBO are always there to listen, and I truly value that.”

We are:

• A warm group of people who genuinely want to support each other.
• An independent organization. We make our own rules and change them when necessary.
• Small enough to cultivate personal, trusting relationships. Big enough to make an impact.
• Diverse. We are all kinds of people running all kinds of businesses.

We are not:

• Exclusive. If we already have a member in your business category, you are still welcome to join. We believe that there is enough pie to go around and you might find that competition can turn into collaboration.
• Women only. Anyone who supports women-owned businesses in Montgomery County is welcome to join.
• A mailing list. We canned the spam years ago. WBO thrives on personal relationships.
• A big commitment. We can’t wait to meet you but engage as much or as little as fits your schedule. No pressure, just opportunity.

Becoming A Member

All members must reside in or provide services or products to the residents of Montgomery County, Maryland, and demonstrate a commitment to helping our community thrive.

Membership

Membership is ideal for women actively involved in the management and operation of an established business that they own. Those with experience running their business find the most value in our community. 

• Benefits include:
  • Exclusive Business Exposure: Get featured in our membership directory, monthly newsletter, social media, and live events.
  • Members-Only Discounts: Get deals from member businesses and enjoy free or discounted entry to events—you’ll never pay full price!
  • Access to Resources: Receive our monthly newsletter and watch webinar recordings at your convenience – only available to members.
  • Expand Your Customer Base: Share exclusive discounts and offers with fellow members to reach new clients.
  • Networking & Educational Events: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs at workshops and social gatherings.
  • Leadership & Growth Opportunities: Serve on our board or lead an initiative within our community.
  • Business Directory Listings: Find trustworthy women-owned businesses through our membership directory.
  • Community Engagement: Showcase your business at local events and gain community visibility.
  • A Supportive Entrepreneurial Network: Join a thriving group of business owners who uplift and empower one another.
• Membership dues are $155 annually

Friend of WBO

• The Friend of WBO designation recognizes individuals who, while not business owners themselves, are passionate advocates for women in business. These individuals may serve in government, nonprofits, academia, or other leadership roles that support women entrepreneurs broadly through resources, connections, or expertise.

Whether offering guidance, championing policy, or facilitating access to programs that uplift women-owned businesses, Friends of WBO play a vital role in advancing our mission. Their partnership helps ensure that women business owners have the support, visibility, and opportunities they deserve to thrive. 

• Membership Dues: 

In lieu of dues, Friends of WBO contribute by offering a tangible service or expertise to benefit Business Owners and Nonprofit Leaders (e.g., hosting an event, leading a workshop) at least once per membership year. If you would like to be considered for a Friends of WBO membership, please contact the Membership Chair.

Try Us Out!

We encourage you to attend a couple of events before applying to get a feel for what WBO is (and what it is not), get to know our members, and ensure that it is the right fit for you. Sign up for an event today!

The Board of Directors reviews each application for membership at their monthly meeting to ensure that your business is established and reflects the experience of our member community. Once approved, you will be invited to pay your annual fee and enjoy full member benefits.

If you have any questions about joining, please feel free to reach out to our Membership Chair.

Join Today!