MADISON – Madison Mayor Paul Finley announced Monday night that the city of Madison will recognize March 30 as Women Owned Business Day.

Reading from his proclamation at last night’s city council meeting, Finley said, “Women own 12.9 million firms in the United States, employing more than 9 million people and generating more than 1.8 trillion dollars in sales. Within the past five years women owned businesses have climbed 21%.

“Alabama ranks 17th in the nation of women owned businesses with a growth rate of 42%. The state has an estimates 152,800 women owned firms, employing just over 110,500 people with a combined sales of $18 billion.”

Finley added that in Madison, the city has over 1400 women owned businesses.

“March is recognized as Women in History month,” Finley said in explaining why recognize women business owners during that month. “The City of Madison values entrepreneurial businesses and seeks to celebrate growth in business ownership among women in the community.”

Representatives from the Women’s Business Council (WBC) were at the meeting to accept the proclamation.
“We are very thankful to Mayor Finley and the city council for taking time to celebrate the contributions of women-owned businesses in the area,” said WBC chair Bonnie Powers.

The WBC is an advocate for women-owned businesses with the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber. The 13 member council advocates and promotes women-owned businesses throughout Madison County .

According to Powers, 40% of the members on the council live or work in the city of Madison.

“We are contributing towards the quality of life and economic development in the city on a daily basis,” Powers told the city council and mayor. “We appreciate you guys recognizing that and celebrating with us.”