Women’s Business Development Center
About Women’s Business Development Center
Based in Chicago, Illinois, the Women's Business Development Center represents a 38-year commitment to advancing women's economic participation and building stronger communities through entrepreneurship. Founded in 1986, WBDC has grown into a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) organization that understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing women and diverse business owners. The center's mission goes beyond transactional business services—it's rooted in a deep belief that supporting women entrepreneurs creates ripple effects throughout entire communities, generating jobs, fostering economic growth, and building lasting prosperity. WBDC serves the Chicago area with a philosophy centered on inclusion and empowerment, recognizing that diverse business ownership strengthens the economic fabric of the region. The organization's programs and services are thoughtfully designed to address the real barriers and needs that women entrepreneurs face, combining mentorship, resources, and community connection. What sets WBDC apart is its long-standing dedication to not just helping individual businesses succeed, but to fundamentally shifting the landscape of economic opportunity in Chicago. By investing in women and diverse entrepreneurs, the center is actively building a more equitable economy where everyone has the chance to create meaningful enterprises and contribute to their communities' prosperity and growth.