First off, happy International Women’s Day to all you ladies out there who are killing it in the trenches and rockin’ our world. As AC/DC so eloquently put it, “We salute you!”
You know, we’re always blown away by the creativity and innovation found in many women-owned businesses we come across on and offline. Yep, as a majority female-owned business ourselves, we search this sort of thing because we are inspired and motivated by other women, and we can learn so much from one another. And on this International Women’s Day, we thought it would be cool to share some of those businesses that made us say, “Wow, that’s awesome!” From large to small, industrial to agricultural, and even one that’s adding some “hoppiness” to its community, these women-owned businesses are a little bit like Simantel; they are working their butts off to be successful in markets that aren’t necessarily known for female leadership.
For the record, we don’t know these women, haven’t worked with them or their businesses professionally. We just happen to like what they are doing and thought today of all days would be a great time to lift them up and celebrate their unconventional efforts. Take a look at what they’re doing and then open your eyes to other women-owned businesses in your community and in our world. There’s a whole bunch of them out there that will make you go, “Wow!”
Dovetail Workwear
A few women realized that their everyday jeans just weren’t cutting it for work, so they decided to do something about it. They created a line of workwear specifically for women in the trades. A company started by women, for the women working in non-traditional settings and thriving in their work? That’s something we can get on board with.
Check out Dovetail’s story – https://dovetailworkwear.com/pages/about-us
Matrix 4
A woman in her 30s leaving a successful career in the biotech space to return to her manufacturing roots and take over her grandfather’s plastics business? That’s kind of unheard of. This is exactly why we are intrigued by M4’s story. CEO Patricia Miller saved her grandfather’s business from closing after the recession, and now under her leadership, M4 was named an Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Company two years in a row. She’s on a mission to “make plastics that matter” – and Patricia’s role running a manufacturing business…well, that matters to us!
Check out M4’s story – https://www.matrix4.com/our-story
Green Heron Tools
This company develops garden and farm tools specifically for women. It all started when two middle-aged women who spent their lives in public service become small-scale organic farmers. They quickly realized that women’s bodies and working styles are so different from men’s, and that of course most tools designed for men would not work optimally for women. And so, their adventure began.
Check out Green Heron’s story – https://www.greenherontools.com/about/about-us/
Marion Manufacturing
This family, woman-owned company manufactures precision parts and provides components to companies in aerospace, agriculture, energy and heavy-duty equipment. The company is at the forefront of technology and employs programmers, machinists and toolmakers. A woman at the forefront of a manufacturing company that’s at the forefront of technology – now that’s pretty cool.
Check out Marion’s story – https://www.mariontool.com/about-us/women-owned.html
Terry Bicycles
For over 30 years, they’ve been disrupting the bicycle industry designing bikes, saddles, apparel and accessories that fit mobilized women. Their mission is simple: “Get more women riding bicycles – comfortably, safely and beautifully.” From one company with active female employees to another, Simantel thanks you.
Check out Terry’s story – http://www.terrybicycles.com/About-Us
Finnegan’s
This is the world’s first beer company to donate 100 percent of profits to fund fresh produce for those in need. They are dedicated to engaging thousands of volunteers and supporters to raise awareness about food security across the Midwest and move the mission forward. With over half a million in donations, CEO Jacquie Berglund continues blazing trails!
Check out Finnegan’s story – https://finnegans.org/jacquie-berglunds-bio/
Charlton & Lola
This custom jewelry experience sits in New York’s Diamond District and creates one-of-a-kind pieces. Although a jewelry and gem stone business, this industry is surprisingly male dominated. Owner Lisa A. Owusu is known as a revolutionary entrepreneur of her time. She’s committed to celebrating life’s moments with precious gems. But a woman-owned business making products for women – talk about a precious gem.
Check out Charlton & Lola’s story – https://www.charltonandlola.com/the-brand
