Women's Business Center

Women’s Business Center Client Spotlight: Annette P. Johnson, MSOL, CPC Founder of AJLEADS, LLC www.thisisannettejohnson.com Discovering the Heart of AJLEADS, LLC AJLEADS, LLC is a boutique leadership and workplace culture consulting business. Services include the design of workplace culture enhancement strategies and action plans, as well as leadership development solutions for individuals, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations that serve women in critical life transitions. Program topics are rooted in self-awareness, leadership development, and strategies for cultivating inclusiveness. Although I have been doing this work for over 30 years, AJLEADS will be celebrating its five-year anniversary next year. What I enjoy… Learn More

Each October, we shine a spotlight on the women who dream, build, and lead small businesses in communities across the country. National Women’s Small Business Month is not just a date on the calendar — it’s a moment to celebrate progress, acknowledge hurdles, and renew our commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. Why This Month Matters Women-owned businesses are powerful engines of innovation, community connection, and economic growth. According to recent data, there are over 14 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., which account for nearly 39 percent of all U.S. business and generate trillions in revenue. Yet despite those remarkable… Learn More

Client Spotlight: Latoya Baltimore, Woman of Essence Beauty Parlor About the Business Woman of Essence Beauty Parlor opened its doors on May 26, 2018. We’re a multicultural, full-service salon in Cambridge, MD dedicated to meeting each client’s individual beauty needs. Our services include—but aren’t limited to—eyelash installation, facial and body waxing, nails and pedicures, haircuts, hair styling, braiding, and weaves. We also retail high-quality haircare products from Influence for clients to use at home. While hair services have always been central to our offerings, eyelash installation has become one of our most in-demand services—it’s truly helped my business thrive. Eyelashes… Learn More

Why Recognition Matters In the whirlwind of running a business—meeting deadlines, managing customers, solving problems—it’s easy to forget how much it means to simply be seen. But being recognized for your hard work can be transformative. It fuels confidence, opens doors, and reminds us that we’re not in this alone. That’s why nominating someone for an award isn’t just a kind gesture—it’s a ripple effect of empowerment that can strengthen an entire community. Each year, our parent organization, Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE), hosts the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards to shine a light on the entrepreneurs who are building stronger,… Learn More

Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE) Women’s Business Center is excited to announce a series of no-charge webinars this August designed to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners across Maryland. Let’s Talk Funding with MCE • Monday, August 4, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM • Monday, August 11, 2025 | 6:00 – 7:00 PM Led by Nick Rudolph, MCE Baltimore Regional Director, these webinars will explore funding options for starting or growing your small business. Topics include the application process, types of funding and requirements, common mistakes to avoid, and a Q&A session. Introduction to SBA Programs and Services • Wednesday,… Learn More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | June 17, 2025 Contact: Dory Hayman Email: dhayman@marylandcapital.org Website: https://marylandcapital.org/education/ ________________________________________ Free July Webinars Empower Aspiring and Established Entrepreneurs Through the MCE Women’s Business Center SALISBURY, MD — Whether you’re just getting started or ready to grow, the Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE) Women’s Business Center (WBC) is offering a full slate of free July webinars to support entrepreneurs across the state. From securing federal contracts to building cash flow, these expert-led sessions provide the tools, resources, and connections every small business owner needs. 💻 All sessions are virtual and free, but registration is required. Sign up… Learn More

Magic, Mission & Meaning: Tell Us About Your Business Blackwater Apothecary is a metaphysical retail and wholesale business with a shop-front located in Downtown Salisbury. For over four years, we’ve offered handcrafted goods: candles, incense, oils, and more—all made with intention and ethical sourcing. Our top-selling products include our monthly subscription boxes and our house-made incense, which help people connect with ritual, story, and seasonal magic. Our customers are curious, spiritual, and everyone in between. What I love most is the diversity of people we get to serve and the way the shop has become a space for reflection, empowerment,… Learn More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 17, 2025 Contact: Dory Hayman dhayman@marylandcapital.org Maryland Capital Enterprises Women’s Business Center Announces Free Business Training Webinars for April 2025 Salisbury, MD – Maryland Capital Enterprises Women’s Business Center (MCE WBC) is excited to announce its April 2025 lineup of free business training webinars, designed to empower entrepreneurs, small business owners, and women in business with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. These no-charge, expert-led sessions will cover essential business topics, from government contracting to business planning, cash flow management, and the first steps of starting your own business. For more class details and to… Learn More

Maryland Capital Enterprises Women’s Business Center Announces the 10th Annual “Aspire to Succeed & Lead” Women’s Conference SALISBURY, MD – Maryland Capital Enterprises’ Women’s Business Center proudly announces its 10th Annual “Aspire to Succeed & Lead” Women’s Business Conference, an empowering event designed to inspire and equip women entrepreneurs and professionals. Set for March 14, 2025, the conference offers a full day of motivational speakers, networking opportunities, and actionable business strategies. This year’s key idea is, “Helping Women in Turbulent Times.” Event Details: 📅 Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 ⏰ Time: Check-in: 8:30–9:00 AM | Conference: 9:00 AM – 3:00… Learn More

Celebrating Black Women Entrepreneurs: Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies As we honor Black History Month, we take time to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and brilliance of Black women entrepreneurs who have left an undeniable mark on the world of business. Despite facing challenges and disparities, these women have built thriving businesses, empowered communities, and inspired future generations. A History of Perseverance Black women have a long history of entrepreneurship in America, beginning in the post-Civil War era when they found ways to create businesses despite limited access to resources. Women like Madam C.J. Walker, often recognized as the first self-made… Learn More