The legacy of women business owners of north florida

Founded in July 1981, Women Business Owners of North Florida (WBO) began as a bold response to the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. At a time when many women struggled to secure business financing without a male co-signer or faced systemic barriers to obtaining contracts and insurance, a group of visionary women came together to create change. They sought to amplify their collective voice, share knowledge, and build a supportive community dedicated to fostering success for women-led businesses.

These trailblazers established WBO with a powerful mission:

• To encourage and support women in business ownership.
• To champion the economic stability and visibility of women-owned businesses.
• To provide learning opportunities and foster professional growth.
• To advocate for legislation and resources that empower women entrepreneurs.
• To create a referral network and promote collaboration among women-owned businesses.

In the late 1980s, the organization embraced a new identity, becoming Women Business Owners of North Florida, Inc. This transformation reflected a growing and vibrant community of women determined to redefine what was possible in business and beyond.

A Community Built on Resilience and Innovation

As the years unfolded, WBO evolved to meet the changing needs of women in business while staying true to its roots. Founding members, like Kersten Chelius, played pivotal roles in shaping the organization’s legacy. From facilitating leadership roundtables to launching initiatives like the Beaches Breakfast, they inspired countless women to dream bigger and achieve more.

The stories of early WBO members are a testament to resilience and innovation. These women not only confronted the obstacles of their time but laid the foundation for a thriving network of business leaders that continues to grow today.

Continuing the Mission

WBO remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering women business owners. Over four decades later, the organization continues to provide its members with the resources, connections, and support they need to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. What began as a small group with a shared vision has grown into a dynamic community of women who lead with purpose, elevate one another, and inspire the next generation of trailblazers.