October is National Women’s Small Business Month. In the United States, there are more than 14 million women-owned businesses. These businesses employ nearly 12.2 million people and generate $2.7 trillion in revenue (2024 Impact of Women-Owned Businesses report). And we’re one of them – Shift Collaborative is a women-owned business as certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). Let’s shine a spotlight on the incredible contributions of a few women entrepreneurs across Pittsburgh.
Chatham’s Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship (CWE)
Shift Collaborative is a proud member of Chatham’s Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship (CWE). CWE gives members access to exclusive networking opportunities. Also, events including AMA (Ask Me Anything) events, one of which was recently hosted by Shift partner Sarah Mayer.
“We initially joined for the opportunity to network with business owners who were on a similar business journey. We’ve stayed members for the relationships we’ve built, the training and education we have access to, and the support of the CWE team.“
Sarah Mayer
Belonging to a center for women’s entrepreneurship like CWE means we’re part of a supportive network of female entrepreneurs and mentors. This provides valuable opportunities for collaboration, shared experiences, and guidance, helping women navigate the unique challenges of starting and growing a business while offering inspiration and encouragement for success.
NuRelm
NuRelm is a women-owned tech business focused on building mobile and web applications. Shift often partners with our friends at NuRelm on website and app projects. NuRelm is dedicated to innovation and empowering clients with user-friendly, high-performance websites, all while supporting women in technology and entrepreneurship.
Recently, Shift partner Cynthia Closkey collaborated with NuRelm on a webinar that explored the synergy between brand-aligned visual and verbal communication in digital interfaces. In this webinar they delved into essential strategies that make apps, learning management systems, and other digital interventions not only functional but also engaging and user-friendly.
“The best digital interfaces provide smooth, welcoming experiences while also embodying brand. I had a great time working with the NuRelm team on this webinar and sharing ideas for designing UI that connects with its audience.”
Cynthia Closkey
Redtree
Redtree is a women-owned web development agency that builds websites focused on brand, goals, and collaboration. Founder and owner Meesha Gerhart is passionate about helping businesses grow through custom web design solutions. Redtree combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of client needs. Redtree is committed to fostering diversity, supporting women in technology, and delivering exceptional, personalized service to clients of all sizes. Our team is always up for collaborating with the Redtree team and is proud to highlight this business.
Shift Collaborative
And last, but not least, Shift Collaborative is a women-owned business based in East Liberty, Pittsburgh. As a brand agency, Shift takes a comprehensive, holistic approach to marketing, communications, and outreach. We develop strategies that fit your mission and goals, then devise tactics and tools for implementing those objectives. Learn more about the history of Shift and contact us today to chat with us about how we can help your brand.