Women Business Owners Network
Overview of Organization
The WBON mission focuses on these three pillars:
Education • Public Influence • Community
Education
WBON holds conferences each year, regional monthly chapter meetings, and occasional special events. The emphasis of much of our educational work is on sharing knowledge about how to run a sustainable business, supporting members in their efforts to succeed (however success is defined), and on how to be partners in their wider community. We also provide many concrete RESOURCES to help aspiring business owners and our members in addition to in-person events.
Public Influence
WBON’s Public Policy Committee works actively to influence public policy at the state and national level. Through appointments to boards and commissions, coalitions, testimony, public policy meetings and member education, WBON has been at the forefront of advocacy on behalf of women business owners and the issues that affect their companies.
Community
WBON works to facilitate the exchange of information between our members, but we also work to promote business between members, help aspiring women business owners in our communities, and encourage the growth of a vital Vermont economy. All of our events include time for informal mixing and networking. Members share information about which ideas have worked well, and which haven’t, as they work to run their businesses. They also have the chance to make business connections with other WBON members, and to simply socialize with others who understand the special challenges and delights of being a woman business owner.
Mission Area: Economic Development
Size of Organization: Less than $250K
Position Overview
As a Board Member of the Vermont Women Business Owners Network (WBON), you will play a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission to support and empower women business owners across the state. This position requires active participation in shaping the strategic direction of WBON, ensuring that its programs, initiatives, and advocacy efforts align with the goal of fostering economic sufficiency for women. Board Members are expected to share their expertise and collaborate with fellow members to drive the success of the organization.
Ideal candidates for this role are business owners or leaders of mission-based organizations dedicated to supporting women’s economic empowerment. Responsibilities include providing governance oversight, engaging in fundraising and outreach efforts, and championing initiatives that support women entrepreneurs in Vermont.
This volunteer position requires a commitment to active engagement in board activities, including regular board meetings, serving on at least one committee, and event participation. By serving on the board, members have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the economic advancement of women business owners and leaders across the state.
We are actively seeking Board members for a three-year term on a rolling basis. To inquire, please email WBON Operations Manager Christine Golden at [email protected].
Learn more about WBON at https://wbon.org
Desired Skills: General Board Governance, Fundraising/Development, Management/Leadership, Marketing/Communications, Advocacy/Policy, Strategy/Business Planning
Additional Information
Current # of Board Members: 4
Carries liability insurance?: Yes
Carries D&O liability insurance?: Yes
Time Expectations: One hour
Meeting Frequency: Once a month
Meeting Location: Remote
Length of Term (in years): 3
Financial contribution required?: No
Service on committee required?: Yes