In the Spotlight: Some enterprising women entrepreneurs from North Carolina
#WomenInBusiness #NCEntrepreneurs #FemaleFounders
North Carolina has consistently earned its reputation as – one of the top states for business, ranking second in the nation according to recent studies. This distinction is thanks to a combination of factors including – a well-trained and diverse workforce, a thriving economy, and a favorable business environment. For five consecutive years, North Carolina has been ranked among the top three states for business, with CNBC placing it at #3 in 2023.
Women Entrepreneurs Leading the Charge in North Carolina’s Booming Business Landscape
A significant part of this success story can be attributed to the dynamic contributions of women entrepreneurs, who are driving innovation and growth across various industries. Women make up nearly half of the workforce in North Carolina and own over 44% of businesses in the state. From tech startups to sustainable agriculture ventures in rural areas, women-led enterprises are flourishing in North Carolina’s supportive business climate. With access to capital, robust networking opportunities & a commitment to education, the state offers a fertile ground for women entrepreneurs to thrive. Let us now delve into the inspiring stories of some women entrepreneurs in North Carolina, highlighting how their resilience, creativity, and leadership are shaping the future of business in the state.
> Jaclyn Smith, Co-founder & Realtor, Jaclyn Smith Properties
Jacyln Smith is a prominent realtor and Co-founder of Jaclyn Smith Properties, a reputed real estate agency. Backed by her extensive expertise in the industry, she provides top-notch services to her clients, ensuring a seamless and successful property-buying experience. It’s her dedication to her work and commitment to excellence that have earned her a reputation – as a trusted and reliable resource for all real estate needs. Whether buying or selling a property, anyone can rely on her expertise and guidance to achieve their goals.
As a Clayton native, her passion extends to the community where she meets various needs of the area through her work with One Compassion, a non-profit she co-founded. Her biggest inspiration is her husband, who has inspired and challenged her as a leader; and they started this entrepreneurship journey together!
At One Compassion, they specifically focus on the needs in Johnston County. One of the favourite things they do every year is – Holiday Ministry, when they help provide much needed groceries, household items, and gifts during the Christmas season.
> Jordan Griffin Rowell, Partner, Leitner, Bragg & Griffin Law Firm
Jordon Griffin Rowell joined with fellow Monroe High School graduates Tee Leitner and Ellie Bragg – to build a local law firm offering a wide variety of services. She is heavily involved in philanthropy and civic projects in her home county. She also serves on the boards of non-profits Community Shelter of Union County and Core Compassion Project, while participating in the county bar association.
She feels their community is a family that supports business, nonprofits, innovation, schools and community. And, she feels blessed to grow up and work in the Union County community.
Professionally, her law firm completed a yearlong renovation of a historic property, the R.V. Houston House, which was built in 1870. Bringing life back into this old house and revitalizing this historic property has been an exciting project for her, which she strongly believes brings benefit to the town too.
> Ann Tayloe, Founder, MomForce
Ann Tayloe is the Founder of MomForce, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering mothers and parents to achieve their full potential in the workforce. Founded in 2017, MomForce provides – resources, education, and community support to help women overcome the challenges of balancing family and career responsibilities. Through its various initiatives, MomForce aims to promote gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace, thus ultimately driving positive change and growth in the lives of mothers and families worldwide. She has helped thousands of women balance work and family responsibilities!!
> Lisa Johnson, CEO of LRS Media
Lisa Johnson is the CEO of LRS Media – a full-service marketing firm. As CEO, she likely oversees the company’s overall strategy, direction, and operations. With a focus on marketing, LRS Media provides a range of services, including campaign development, advertising, branding, digital marketing, and more.
Under Lisa Johnson’s leadership, the company aims to deliver effective marketing solutions that help clients achieve their business goals. Lisa Johnson’s expertise and guidance enable LRS Media to stay ahead in the competitive marketing industry, offering innovative and tailored solutions to its clients.
Jenny Lefcourt is a remarkable entrepreneur and Co-founder of INNOVATE, a social impact fund. With a passion for innovative solutions, Lefcourt leverages her expertise to drive positive change. Her work focuses on – supporting cutting-edge projects that address pressing global issues. As an advocate for innovation and social justice, her contributions have made a significant impact. By investing in pioneering initiatives, INNOVATE empowers individuals and communities to create a better future.
She is a pioneering figure in the social entrepreneurship landscape. As the Co-founder of INNOVATE, she plays a crucial role in fostering innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. With her expertise, INNOVATE focuses on identifying and investing in startups that drive positive change; and her work embodies her commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable world.
> Randi Zuckerberg, Co-founder of Zuckerberg Media
Randi Zuckerberg is both an enterprising entrepreneur and a media personality. As the Co-founder of Zuckerberg Media, she establishes and promotes brands through digital media. She was an early advocate for digital privacy, heading Facebook’s marketing efforts before leaving to pursue her own ventures.
Besides, she has also hosted numerous TV shows and podcasts, including – “Teen Crash” and “Dot Complicated”. Her company focuses on social media strategy, marketing & operational consulting. Most importantly, with her expertise and legacy as a Facebook board member, Randi Zuckerberg is a prominent figure in the digital marketing industry.
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
Shree Lahiri
