A new support network for women entrepreneurs has been established in Hermiston, aiming to alleviate some of the challenges faced by female business owners. Krista Van Veen, the owner of the local bookkeeping service, The Good Ledger, has launched the Women Business Owners of Umatilla County group to foster community and collaboration among women in the business sector.
Statistics indicate that over 50% of new businesses fail within the first five years, and women entrepreneurs often face additional hurdles due to limited access to established networks and mentorship opportunities. Van Veen created the group to provide a safe space for women to connect, share experiences, and support one another. “I really wanted to create a community of other women business owners,” she explained.
Building Relationships for Success
According to Adam Vzialko from Business News Daily, a strong professional network can significantly influence business success. He notes that many women entrepreneurs encounter barriers to networking, which can hinder access to crucial resources such as mentors and funding.
Originally from Portland, Van Veen has an extensive background in business management, having served as the vice president of operations for a website company and as accounting manager for Global Trading Resources for 14 years. She established her bookkeeping business in Hermiston during the early stages of the pandemic, primarily servicing clients remotely.
About six months ago, Van Veen began contemplating the formation of a group focused on women business owners. “Women business owners are my favorite clients,” she stated. “They understand the work I provide and build relationships differently.”
Van Veen believes that strong relationships are pivotal in the business world. She noted that working with a bookkeeper can often induce anxiety, but establishing a good rapport can ease that tension. “If you have a relationship with the person you are working with, it helps to ease the anxiety,” she said.
First Meeting Exceeds Expectations
The inaugural meeting of the Women Business Owners of Umatilla County took place in February, attracting nine participants—far exceeding Van Veen’s expectations of five attendees. “It was so successful I couldn’t get people to leave,” she remarked. Attendees exchanged business cards and discussed their marketing strategies, particularly through social media.
The next gathering is scheduled for March 17, 2024, at The Next Chapter Bookstore, thanks to the support of group member Angela Pursel. Van Veen expressed gratitude for Pursel’s involvement, noting her as a valuable sounding board for ideas. Additionally, Val Hoxie, Executive Director of the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce, has also shown support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of connection among business owners.
“From a business owner standpoint, completely separate from the chamber, I want to say how much I support what Krista has created,” Hoxie stated. “Business ownership can be isolating, and we all need connection and encouragement.”
Van Veen has been heartened by the interest shown by women reaching out to her since the group’s formation. “The part that is exciting is that people are contacting me who I have never met before,” she said. She believes that the initial enthusiasm indicates the potential for significant growth.
The group aims to promote women-owned businesses throughout Umatilla County and encourage local shopping. Van Veen is also running for Hermiston City Council, motivated by a desire to support local businesses. “If each family could spend $100 more here at home, that would keep $3 million in our community each year,” she noted.
Beyond supporting fellow women entrepreneurs, Van Veen aims to set an example for her family. “I want my kids and grandchildren to see me be brave,” she said.
For more information on the Women Business Owners of Umatilla County, interested individuals can contact Van Veen at 503-740-9917 or visit their Facebook page.
