Why 2026 is the Best Year for Women to Start Businesses

The landscape for women entrepreneurs in 2026 is fundamentally different from what it was two years ago. AI tools have democratized capabilities that once required entire teams. Funding gaps are narrowing—slowly, but measurably. The market rewards businesses built around authenticity, community and values-driven commerce, all areas where women founders can consistently outperform.

But back to why 2026 is the best year for women to start businesses. The data tells a compelling story. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, women-owned businesses now have access to targeted funding opportunities, federal contracting programs, and an expanding network of Women’s Business Centers that provide free training and counseling. These are all resources that significantly improve success rates in female-founded businesses.

Before diving into what you think will be a viable business, ask yourself these three questions:

1. What does success look like for you? 
2. What skills do you already have that the market will pay for? 
3. How much risk can you tolerate right now? 

Now, let's take a look at some profitable business ideas.

Funding Opportunities for Women Business Owners Curated by the WBDC Chicago

Below is a list of current Funding Opportunities curated by Women Business Development Center's (WBDC’s) Access to Capital team in Chicago.  If interested in any of these opportunities, please reach out to the organization via the links or emails provided.

Funding opportunities.

Several Fortune 500 Companies Are Run By Women

There are 14.5 million women-owned businesses in the United States. Firms run by female executives employ 12.9 million workers and generate $3.3 trillion annually.  Several Fortune 500 companies are run by women. No longer are female business leaders an anomaly. Although there are still more male-owned businesses, women entrepreneurs are catching up, owning more than 39 percent of businesses in the United States.

Here are the stories of women who became the heads of well-known and Fortune 500 companies.

As Trump Would Say, "It's Going To Be the Biggest Ever!" on the 'No Kings' Rallies Worldwide

©Laurel J. Delaney.  All rights reserved.

Organizers of today's (3/28/26) "No Kings" rallies across the country are predicting that the protests against the actions of President Donald Trump and his administration could add up to one of the largest demonstrations in U.S. history, with Minnesota (Bruce Springsteen is performing) taking center stage.

Organizers say more than 3,100 events have been registered in all 50 states, with more than 9 million people expected to participate.   Or as Trump would say, "Billions are showing up :-)!  It's going to be the biggest ever!"

Photo credit:  Laurel Delaney of Chicago's flyer for the No Kings rally 3/28/26.

Why Entrepreneurship Is Rising For Women

Women now own over 40% of all U.S. businesses, employing 12.6 million people and generating $2.8 trillion in revenue, according to a recent report by Wells Fargo. The number of women-owned businesses grew 12% from 2022 to 2025, nearly double the growth rate for businesses owned by men.

The trend is particularly strong among younger women and women of color, who are ambitiously launching new businesses. 

Read more here.

Cheers To All the Powerhouse Women Entrepreneurs Today

Cheers to all the powerhouse women entrepreneurs today – may your revenue streams run as bright as the Chicago River. 💚☘️ Had to share this incredible video I took today (3/14/26) of the Chicago River being dyed green.

Happy St. Patrick's Day 2026! 

From Ireland to Texas: Four Women Entrepreneurs Redefining Success

The Irish-American connection is built off the backs of generations of trailblazers who, over centuries, have paved paths for strong bonds between our two nations.

Today, Irish women in Texas continue to embody tremendous drive, through leadership in business and innovation, contributions to the arts and academia, and service to their communities, they are forging modern links between Ireland and Texas.

Meet some of the Irish women who are making their mark in the Lone Star state.