Thanks to women like entrepreneur women like Lisa Kalaher, owner of MOD house, Iowa ranks number eight for growth among women business owners.
“I think it’s exciting for the city to have all of these females rising in the ranks of being entrepreneurs. It is a great way to see a well-rounded community as well as different ideas to the table,” said Kalaher.
According to a report released by American Express, Iowa ranked last on that same report just three years ago. Beth Trejo, the owner of Chatterkick, says she believes the shift is a result of the culture changing for the better in Iowa.
“I think Iowa is a very connected state. There’s a lot of things that bring us all together and if you meet someone across the country and they say hey I’m from Iowa, somehow somewhere you probably know somebody that they’re probably connected to,” said Trejo.
While the numbers show progression, being a woman and entrepreneur has unique difficulties.
“When I started Chatterkick, I had the 18th month at home and found out I was pregnant. Immediately after, I left my position and decided to start a new business. So I started in the midst of feeling not hot,” said Trejo.
Seven years later, Trejo has received recognition for her work, taken on public speaking opportunities and even started her own podcast to promote women in business.
“I think one of the opportunities we have as women is to support others. Whether that’s just giving them tips, ideas, and advice or literally help them out and solve a problem. The more you can do that the more the community becomes connected and I think that helps to elevate everyone in the community,” said Trejo.
It’s a trend Trejo said is headed in the right direction.