We are beginning the work in your region now!  Thank you for stepping up to participate on the USWCC Economic Development Council.  It is through your commitment and willingness to take action that the EDC will raise the level of influence and accelerate business growth for women business owners.. We appreciate your support and patience as we have held numerous virtual meetings to begin this national network. The national women's Economic Development Council focuses on the cornerstones of growth for women business owners: Access to Markets Access to Capital Access to Technical Expertise Influence To begin the process across the U.S., members of the Economic Development Council will: Establish Steering Committees in each state or region and expand EDC membership.   Begin to gather important data regarding your region so we can clearly understand the centers of influence and the work that is needed in your region.   Establish the regional Women's Economic Development Alliance (WEDA) by inviting organizations to become part of the alliance - creating a strong network of influence for the women's groups in your region.   Advocate for the first important issue - the implementation of the Women's Federal Procurement Program (P.L. 106-554 providing federal contracting set-asides for women-owned businesses). You may take part on the Economic Development Council in two ways - as a Leadership Council Member or as part of the Steering Committee. EDC Steering Committee Members coordinate the efforts in their region. EDC Steering Committee Members are USWCC Supporting Members who actively reach out to their community to implement the monthly efforts of the EDC, assist with the creation and management of the regional Women's Economic Development Alliance, lead the charge for advocacy, and work with EDC Leadership Council Members to complete the work of the regional council. EDC Steering Committee Members are the backbone of our national efforts and are  recognized at the USWCC Web Portal. We communicate with EDC Steering Committee Members through a private messaging system. You will be part of the national network of leaders working side-by-side to advance growth opportunities for women-owned businesses. Many of you have already indicated an interest in serving on your regional steering committees.  Please be sure to let us clearly know of your intent to lead by going here now.  We are now ready to begin our work with the local steering committee leaders and will add you to our private messaging system.   EDC Leadership Council Members are active participants in the work in your region - taking on projects and action as your schedule permits.  This allows you to be part of our progress and assist where you can without committing to a consistent monthly leadership role.  We communicate with EDC Leadership Council members through a private messaging system that will allow you to volunteer monthly for activities of the council and provide you with opportunities to be part of the work of our national network of EDC leaders. If you would like to be part of the EDC Leadership Council - please register here. Communications If you have previously indicated your interest in the EDC, we have registered you to your regional private messaging system and to our national EDC announcement list. You will be receiving a separate text e-mail very shortly which will provide you with the link you need to access this communication system for your region and begin the first steps in your community. You may also go here to view links to our state lists. Your Action Steps Getting started is easy. Just follow the steps below: Select your level of participation and complete your registration.  Read more here.  Or, click on a link below and register your status. Steering Committee Leadership Council   Begin this month's EDC activities in your area - go here.   Advocate for the first important issue - the implementation of the Women's Federal Procurement Program (P.L. 106-554 providing federal contracting set-asides for women-owned businesses). Go here.   Pass this information on to other women business owners. Forward this email!   Contact us and other supporters from your region through the private messaging system for your state to start coordinating the actiivities in your area - go here now. The USWCC Testifies Before House Committee Read the recent USWCC testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Small Business Committee - go here. Not a member of the U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce yet?  Please support us as we support you. Be part of the national voice for women in business. Join here. The U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce™ is the preeminent national women's chamber of commerce network whose mission is to develop leaders, accelerate economic growth and provide a community voice for women. U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce 1201 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Suite 300 Washington, D.C. 20004 Toll Free: 888-41-USWCC