Entrepreneurial ventures are at the core of central Alabama ’ s economy , and many are women-run businesses .

Finding resources like capital , support networks and educational training is frequently more challenging for women business owners than for their male counterparts . Studies show women are less likely than men to receive a Small Business Administration loan , and 40 percent of women business owners applying for a loan never succeed in getting funding .

We offer resources and support to women entrepreneurs in a range of industries and sectors , particularly through our Women in Business program and our Community Lending initiatives .

These and other opportunities for women entrepreneurs in our area can help female entrepreneurs grow their business .

WOMEN IN BUSINESS PROGRAM : At Valley Bank , we saw the need for a women ’ s resource network and created the Women in Business program , aimed at connecting women with others in or out of their industry through social and educational events . It ’ s open to all women in business , even if you are not a customer at Valley . Women in the program also get a number of special benefits , like access to free meeting spaces in our branch boardrooms and seminars with local business leaders .

LOCAL BUSINESS GROUPS : We also recommend looking at other business groups for networking . As just one example , the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce offers events throughout the year to uplift women . Both the Millbrook and Wetumpka Chambers of Commerce host annual women ’ s conferences that provide participants with business management advice , financial wellness tips and the chance to engage in discussions with successful local businesswomen and entrepreneurs .

COMMUNITY LENDING PROGRAM : Valley ’ s Community Lending program helps underserved businesses with a focus on development and innovation . The program has special offers tailored for women and minorityowned businesses , lowering their barriers to entry in getting financing .

With Valley ’ s Community Lending program , women entrepreneurs can apply for business credit , debt consolidation , fixed-rate loans and more . Our team of advisors is specially equipped to bring these offers and services to women and minority-owned businesses in Alabama .

Dana Moore is Vice President , Business Banking Relationship Manager and Women in Business Ambassador at Valley Bank , based in Montgomery .