SIFE to Host Women's Entrepreneurship Expo

TAHLEQUAH - While women make up more than half the population of the United States, they own less than half the businesses in this country. According to the Center for Women's Business Research, about 27 percent of the businesses in Oklahoma are owned by women.

In an effort to promote women's accomplishments in business and showcase the opportunities available for women in the business world, Northeastern State University Students in Free Enterprise is hosting the Women's Entrepreneurship Expo, set for Wednesday, Feb. 28, from 2-6 p.m. in the University Center Rozell Ballroom on the Tahlequah campus. The U.S. Small Business Administration is co-hosting the event.

"The Women's Entrepreneurship Expo is a great opportunity for women thinking about starting a business to connect with successful entrepreneurs in various fields," said Grant Alexander, co-Sam Walton Fellow for SIFE.

SIFE is currently searching for women entrepreneurs to set up as vendors at the event. A $50 donation to the organization will reserve a booth at the event. Funds raised from the event go to cover SIFE students' travel expenses to a national conference. To make a donation, contact Grant Alexader,  SIFE Women's Expo, 700 North Grand, Tahlequah, OK 74464. Booth space must be reserved by Friday, Feb. 9.

"We are very excited to bring together women entrepreneurs who are willing to share their knowledge and skills on how to start a business," Alexander said. "Participants will get a chance to see a variety of business opportunities and actually talk with the company owners."

The event is free to the public.

NSU Career Services will be on hand to provide information about starting new businesses and searching for a career. The Cherokee Nation Small Business Assistance Center will also be on hand to answer questions.

For more information on the Women's Entrepreneurship Expo, or to sign up as a vendor, contact Stephanie Graham at 918-822-3366.