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Integro Bank's Women Entrepreneur & Leaders Fireside Chat CEO Club Event to Empower Arizona's Businesswomen

By: GWL Team | Thursday, 20 July 2023

Integro Bank is set to host a groundbreaking Women Entrepreneur & Leaders Fireside Chat CEO Club Event on July 26th, inviting all Arizona business owners, leaders, and professionals. This event presents an exclusive opportunity for female entrepreneurs to connect, network, and gain valuable insights from thought leaders, successful women entrepreneurs, and industry professionals.

With the goal of fostering an environment for learning and growth, the Fireside Chat promises to provide attendees with useful knowledge and ideas to excel in their businesses. Participants will have the chance to discover the experiences and best practices of influential women entrepreneurs, learn about societal and business trends, and gain motivation from the achievements of others.

Arizona's women-led enterprises have been a driving force in the state's economy, experiencing remarkable growth over the years. According to the Women's Company Enterprise National Council, these businesses have seen a staggering 58% increase since 2007, surpassing the overall company growth rate of 12%. This growth has contributed significantly to the state's economic impact, reaching over $3 trillion.

However, despite their impressive contributions, women entrepreneurs still face challenges in accessing funding. Nationally, only about 4% of commercial loans are directed towards women-owned businesses, as reported by the SBA (Small Business Administration) data from August 2019. Additionally, a 2020 poll reveals that women's loan application approval rates are approximately 18% lower than those of their male counterparts. Even when approved, women typically receive smaller loan amounts compared to men.

In light of these statistics, Elaine Szeto, Chief Innovation Officer and Founder of Integro Bank, emphasized the importance of developing stronger support systems for women-owned businesses. Szeto believes that empowering women entrepreneurs will not only create a more robust workforce for Arizona but also hold the potential for generational change, shaping the future of the state.

To participate in this empowering discussion, advance as a business leader, and contribute to shaping Arizona's future, interested individuals are encouraged to RSVP to the Integro Bank Fireside Chat. This event promises to be a catalyst for positive change, encouraging collaboration and growth within the business community.