Celebrating International Women's Day By Supporting Women-Owned Businesses
As we approach International Women’s Day on March 8th, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women all over the world.
Women have been, and continue to be, a vital and powerful force in shaping the world as we know it today. From the tireless activism of suffragettes who fought for the right to vote, to the trailblazing female leaders who are breaking down barriers in politics, business, and beyond, women have made their mark and continue to inspire us with their strength, courage, and determination.
On this day it is also important to raise awareness about the need for gender equality and to advocate for policies and initiatives that support women’s economic empowerment and reduce gender-based discrimination and violence.
One way we can do this is by supporting women-owned businesses. Women continue to face significant barriers in the business world, and by supporting these businesses, we can help to break down these barriers and empower women economically and socially.
Here are some of our favorites:
1. Sweeter card
The greeting card and a gourmet chocolate bar all in one? What could be better?!
Sweeter Cards is a woman (and mom!) owned company. They use fair trade certified chocolate, recyclable card packaging, and employ adults with disabilities to bring their two-for-one concept to life.
Their sea salt caramel dark chocolate is handmade in St. Louis, using Fair Trade Certified™ ingredients. Each bar is made with soft vanilla caramel, cane sugar, fresh whipping cream, butter, and Madagascar vanilla and always topped with Mediterranean sea salt. Each batch is also hand stirred in copper kettles and made with love to ensure every single Sweeter Card is full of deliciousness that will win the card-giving game.
Their chocolatier uses only the finest clean ingredients, and their chocolate has no artificial flavors or colors, preservatives, or hydrogenated oils.
Sweeter Cards is proud to be based and made in St. Louis, Missouri.
2. Dirty Cookie
Dirty Cookie was founded by Shahira Marei, an Egyptian American who was raised in Orange County, California.
Dirty Cookie has transformed the classic treat into something truly special. They have taken the traditional milk and cookie experience to the next level, making it more delicious, enjoyable, and unforgettable for customers. This innovative company is leading the way in the art of edible gifting, making them the future of edible gifting.
Their cookies can be customized to match an organization’s colors and branding, making them a great personalized gift for any special occasion. Plus, their cookies are delicious, making them a treat that kids and adults will enjoy!
A portion of every purchase is donated directly to one of their partnered non-profit organizations to give one student a shot at higher learning. In fact, Dirty Cookie is committed to impacting the lives of 10 million kids through its Shot for Education program. They partner with education-focused nonprofits that provide tools, resources, and access to education to those in need. Their partners range from STEM to reading and focus on supporting underserved communities.
3. Seventh Avenue Apothecary
Seventh Avenue Apothecary is a family business that carries on the legacy of 5 generations of Tampa entrepreneurs. Phala and Jessica, a mother-daughter duo, run the company with passion.
The candle-making factory is located in a historic building, formerly a family dry cleaners, on the east side of Ybor City.
Seventh Avenue Apothecary is committed to giving back to the community and partnering with local charities, having supported several schools through a successful fundraising program since 2012. Their candles, made with American-grown soybeans, are available across the US and in four other countries. The company emphasizes detail, quality, and customer service, leading to the expansion of its product line to include affordable and high-quality home fragrance items.
4. Klean Kanteen
A true leader in the industry, Klean Kanteen was the first to sell a BPA-free stainless-steel water bottle in 2004 and has since grown to become an international brand in a rapidly growing industry.
In 2018, Klean introduced its own powder coat finish, Klean Coat, ultimately creating a new standard in durability and safety for people and the planet. Last year Klean Kanteen made its biggest move yet and began manufacturing products with certified 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 steel, a first in the reusable drinkware industry. This will result in a 50% reduction in steel greenhouse gas emissions, a 30% reduction in energy demand, and a 60-80% reduction in ecosystem impacts.
With a focus on environmental stewardship, Klean Kanteen is a B Corporation, a proud 1% For The Planet member, and Climate Neutral Certified. Working closely with values-aligned companies and organizations, Klean Kanteen supports efforts towards health, reducing single-use plastic, and environmental education and awareness.
What only some know is that Klean Kanteen is a family and employee-owned company, it is co-owned by siblings Michelle Kalberer and Jeffrey Ferrian. Michelle has played a significant role in the growth and success of the company, and her contributions to the company as a leader have been instrumental in shaping the company’s culture and mission.
5. Fossa Apparel
Fossa Apparel is a clothing brand that is not only women-owned, but also minority-owned making it a truly unique and inclusive company.
Fossa Apparel offers a wide range of clothing options for women of all sizes and styles, with a focus on comfort and sustainability. Their clothing is made with environmentally-friendly materials and their production processes are designed to minimize waste and reduce their carbon footprint.
In addition to their commitment to sustainability, Fossa Apparel is also dedicated to giving back to their community. They regularly support organizations that empower women and minorities, and they are always looking for ways to make a positive impact in the world.
Get a Complete Guide to Women-Owned Businesses
Women are the agents of change, the voices of progress, and the trailblazers of a brighter future. So let’s celebrate the role of women in the world, recognize their contributions, and work together to create a brighter future for all. Get a complete guide to Women-Owned businesses here.
