Entrepreneurship has surged in the wake of the pandemic, and it hasn't slowed. Leading the way are women who have turned to entrepreneurship for better opportunities, flexible work schedules, and wealth creation. According to a 2026 report by , women-owned businesses grew 12% from 2022 to 2025, nearly double the growth rate for businesses owned by men. These women-led enterprises now employ 12.6 million people and generate $2.8 trillion in revenue.
The same report ranked Cleveland sixth among the nation's Top 10 Metropolitan Statistical Areas in 2025 for its ability to foster the long-term growth and success of women-owned businesses. What sets Cleveland apart from its peer cities in terms of growth and opportunity? And what partnerships and initiatives are finding success in ensuring every woman has access to the capital, training, networks, and mentorship they need to achieve their dreams?
Aisha Childers is a Cleveland-based entrepreneur and operator leading multiple organizations across early childhood education, food service, and community-based event spaces.
Nathalie A. Dibo is the Founder and Managing Partner of Dibo Law, LLC, where she leads a team of attorneys focused on business litigation, real estate and business law, and estate planning and probate.
Nitina Francis is the Director of the Women鈥檚 Business Center of Central Ohio at ECDI, where she leads programs that support and grow women-owned businesses across the region.
Join us at the City Club as Huntington Bank's Roshonda Smith leads a candid conversation on the current challenges, opportunities, and landscape of women in entrepreneurship across Northeast Ohio.
Panelists
Aisha Childers
CEO, A.Z.A Investment Group LLC
Nathalie A. Dibo
Founder & Managing Partner, Dibo Law, LLC
Nitina Francis
Director, Women鈥檚 Business Center of Central Ohio
Moderator
Roshonda Smith
Senior Vice President, Business Engagement Director, Huntington National Bank