National Business Women’s Week is observed during the third full week of October and honors the women who work in business. At one point in time, business was a field entirely dominated by men, but that is slowly beginning to change as more and more women enter the business world.

Women are also starting their own businesses on an unprecedented scale, and it’s estimated that women-owned businesses generate almost $2 trillion in sales every year. The contribution of women to the economy can no longer be ignored, and they should be given the respect they’re due.

The History of National Business Women’s Week

The first National Business Women’s Week was observed in 1928 and was originally launched by the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC). However, when it was first launched, it wasn’t observed on a widespread basis. It would take another 10 years before it began to be celebrated all across the country.

Facts About Women in Business

To illustrate the importance of businesswomen, we’ve decided to list some facts about women in business that anyone observing this week is going to want to read.

• Women own over a third of small businesses in the world.
• In California alone, there are 1.3 million women-owned firms.
• Women-owned businesses are growing at a rate of 5% per year.
• In the U.S., women own over 12 million businesses.
• Women-owned U.S. businesses employ more than 9 million people.
• Hispanic women-owned businesses have grown almost 200% over the last decade.
• Approximately 88% of women-owned businesses generate less than $100,000 a year.

Observing National Business Women’s Week

During this week, people are encouraged to recognize women in business. This can be done by showing appreciation to a businesswoman you look up to or by recognizing them in some other way. People can spread the word about this week using the hashtag #NationalBusinessWomensWeek on their internet accounts.