Public Announcements
NAWBO NEO Earns Chapter of Excellence Recognition
We are excited to share that NAWBO Northeast Ohio has been recognized as a NAWBO Chapter of Excellence for the 2025–2026 year!
This national recognition celebrates chapters that demonstrate exceptional leadership, member engagement, programming, governance, and a strong commitment to advancing NAWBO's mission of empowering women business owners.
This achievement belongs to our entire chapter. It reflects the dedication of our Board of Directors, volunteers, members, corporate partners, sponsors, and everyone who contributes their time, talents, and support to make our chapter thrive.
We are incredibly proud of what we've accomplished together and grateful to be part of such a strong and inspiring community of women business owners.
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to providing meaningful programming, valuable connections, and opportunities that help women entrepreneurs grow and succeed.
Thank you for being part of NAWBO Northeast Ohio and for helping make this recognition possible. We look forward to another year of learning, connecting, advocating, and growing together.
NAWBO National Advocacy Update
How is your business doing? Are there any changes that are impacting your business?
First and foremost, thanks to all who filled out the survey. We have been using your responses to craft our message on Capitol Hill. CEO Jen Earle and Board Chair Dr. Janis Shinkawa will be back in Washington, D.C., the last week of February. If there is something new you want them to discuss with lawmakers, a story you would like to share, or if you would like to be added to our index of potential hearing witnesses, please email [email protected].
You've got questions. We've got some answers to help clarify.
Understanding executive actions is essential for small business owners to anticipate regulatory shifts and economic trends. Consulting with financial and legal professionals can help ensure compliance and strategic adaptation to these changes. Beyond consulting professionals, we’ve compiled an FAQ to respond to our membership’s inquiries.
What are executive orders, and how do they affect small businesses?
Executive orders (EOs) are legally binding directives issued by the President to federal agencies, impacting regulations, enforcement, and policies. While not direct laws, they influence areas such as labor, trade, and taxation, which may affect small businesses.
How can I stay informed about new executive orders that might impact my business?
You can monitor the White House's official website, government agency announcements, and industry associations for updates. Consulting with legal or business advisors can also help you navigate any changes.
Can executive orders override existing business laws?
No, executive orders cannot override laws passed by Congress. However, they can influence how laws are enforced or interpreted by federal agencies, which can affect regulations that impact small businesses.
What should small business owners do if an executive order negatively impacts their industry?
Business owners can voice concerns with trade associations (like NAWBO), industry groups, and local representatives. Legal action may also be an option if the EO conflicts with existing laws or constitutional rights.
What are good resources to monitor for interpretations of EOs, OMB memos, and their impact on WOSB and MBE businesses?
Some valuable resources include the Federal News Network, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and agency-specific procurement sites. Regularly checking these sources can help businesses stay informed about regulatory changes.
What is the "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE), and how does it impact small businesses?
The DOGE is not a federal agency, nor is it a Cabinet-level department. When the President created DOGE via executive order, he renamed the existing United States Digital Service (USDS), established in 2014 by President Obama. If successful, small businesses interacting with the government (e.g., contracts, grants, and licensing) may experience reduced bureaucratic delays.
How will the "Regulatory Freeze Pending Review" memorandum impact small businesses?
This order halts new regulations until reviewed, which could delay both restrictive and beneficial policies. If your business was awaiting relief from burdensome regulations, this could be beneficial, but it may also slow down needed clarifications or support measures. Shortly after the memo was issued, but before it could take effect, two lawsuits were filed in the federal district courts of Rhode Island and the District of Columbia. Broadly, these lawsuits claim that the memo violates the Administrative Procedure Act and various constitutional provisions. While the federal funding freeze has been paused due to these lawsuits, it is understood that an audit of federal programs continues to be underway.
What does the "America First Trade Policy" mean for small businesses?
This policy prioritizes U.S. industries through trade restrictions and protections. While it may boost domestic production, businesses relying on imports could face higher costs due to new tariffs or trade restrictions.
Will the "Delivering Emergency Price Relief" memorandum help reduce costs for my business?
This memorandum aims to lower costs for essential goods, including fuel and food. The actual impact depends on implementation and regulatory adjustments. If successful, it may reduce operational expenses for small businesses.
Are there executive orders that provide financial relief for small businesses?
Some executive orders focus on economic relief, such as loan programs, grants, or tax incentives. Small business owners should monitor government agencies like the Small Business Administration (SBA) for relevant updates.
How does the "OECD Global Tax Deal" memorandum affect small businesses?
The U.S. aims to keep corporate taxes competitive by rejecting the global tax deal. This primarily affects multinational corporations but could indirectly impact small businesses by influencing supply chain costs and tax policies.
How do new tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada impact small businesses?
On February 1st, 2025, President Trump called for 25% tariffs on goods imported from Mexico and Canada and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy imports. The President also called for a broad 10% tariff on Chinese goods in addition to existing tariffs. Shortly after calling for tariffs, the President announced the US had reached deals with Canada and Mexico, respectively, to delay the tariffs by one month. Chinese tariffs went into effect, including closing the "de minimis loophole," which allowed goods valued under $800 to avoid import duties and taxes. The tariffs may raise the cost of goods and materials for businesses that rely on international supply chains. However, domestic manufacturers may see an increase in demand.
Will there be tax breaks for small businesses under recent executive actions?
Some EOs may propose tax relief measures, but Congress must approve actual tax changes. Small business owners should consult tax professionals to understand potential impacts.
What does the "Hiring Freeze" mean for small business contractors?
The federal hiring freeze may delay government contracts and reduce spending on business services, potentially impacting businesses that rely on government work.
How does the "Reforming the Federal Hiring Process" EO impact small businesses?
This EO prioritizes merit-based hiring and aims to streamline federal employment. Small businesses looking to hire talent may benefit from a more competitive labor market as federal job openings slow.
Will executive orders affect the minimum wage for small businesses?
Some executive orders can mandate minimum wage changes for federal contractors, but broader wage increases typically require congressional approval.
Do the executive orders focused on DEI only apply to Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) set-asides and not Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) -certified small businesses?
Executive Orders on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, including Ending Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing, place emphasis on "merit-based opportunity" and rescind the 1965 Executive Order establishing Affirmative Action in the federal government. While this seems to primarily target MBE set-asides, its broader impact on WOSB-certified businesses remains uncertain. Since Small Business Administration (SBA)-administered set-asides are based on federal statutes, legislative action would be required to eliminate them. However, the SBA holds the authority to modify enforcement and eligibility criteria, potentially affecting both MBE and WOSB participation.
What is the impact of the executive actions focused on DEI on state-based DBE programs that tie into federal agencies?
The DEI EO may influence state-based Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) programs by encouraging federal agencies, including the Department of Transportation, to reassess their equity initiatives. However, the direct impact on state-level programs will depend on implementation details and state compliance.
What does the "Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology" EO mean for small businesses?
This order promotes blockchain technology and digital assets while banning Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). Small businesses engaging in cryptocurrency transactions may see more regulatory clarity and support for digital payments.
How does the "Removing Barriers to AI Development" EO impact small businesses?
This order encourages AI growth by reducing restrictions. Small businesses in tech and automation may benefit from greater investment and innovation opportunities.
Are there any executive orders related to data privacy or cybersecurity that affect small businesses?
Some executive orders enhance cybersecurity policies, requiring small businesses in specific industries to comply with stricter data security standards. Staying informed on cybersecurity guidelines can help avoid compliance issues.
How will the "Declaring a National Energy Emergency" EO affect small businesses?
This EO may stabilize or lower energy costs by expediting energy projects and resource development. However, environmental regulations and compliance changes could also affect specific industries.
What does the "Temporary Withdrawal of Offshore Wind Leasing" memorandum mean for businesses in renewable energy?
This move halts offshore wind leasing while the government reviews policies. If your business is involved in renewable energy, it may face project delays but could benefit from revised, business-friendly policies later.
Will executive orders impact small businesses' access to renewable energy incentives?
Yes, Trump's executive orders paused all federal spending related to the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. As a result, renewable energy incentives are paused for small business owners. Other opportunities may be available for small businesses via federal agencies or prior legislation.
Beneficial Ownership Information Report (BOIR)
From: Marguerite I. Harkness, CPA, MBA
216-228-3091
Member, NAWBONEO
Past president, WBOA and NAWBO Cleveland
Date: October 4, 2024
To: All NAWBONEO businessowner members.
Re: CRITICAL: BOIR reports due by 12/31/2024, no excuses, no extensions
1. Who has to file:
CLICK HERE for important information on BIOR reporting.
CLICK HERE for a 4-page paper form for reporting.
FRAUD ALERT: SCAMMERS MAY CALL TO REQUEST THIS INFO UNDER THE GUISE OF HELPING YOU FILE THIS REPORT. JUST HANG UP. THEY ARE A SCAM.
NAWBO Cleveland Rebrands to Service More Women Business Owners
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- June 13, 2024 -- NAWBO Cleveland (affiliate of the National Association of Women Business Owners) is proud to announce its expansion into additional counties, cities and areas of Northeast Ohio. With this expansion comes a new chapter name - NAWBO Northeast Ohio (NAWBONEO).
We are excited to serve more women in a larger area with our education, relationship-building, advocacy and sisterhood of female business owners.
See what NAWBO Northeast Ohio has to offer. Find us on all social media platforms as well as www.nawboneo.org.
NAWBO's vision is to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide. NAWBO is an organization that works to:
- STRENGTHEN the wealth-creating capacity of our members and promote economic development;
- CREATE innovative and effective changes in the business culture;
- BUILD strategic alliances, coalitions and affiliations;
- TRANSFORM public policy and influence opinion makers.
# # #
Remembering NAWBO Cleveland's Pat Altvater
NAWBO Cleveland Wins Chapter of the Year
It is with great honor and excitement that we announce, once again, NAWBO Cleveland has just received the coveted Chapter of the Year Award for 2021-2022. This is an amazing honor for the second year in a row. The award was presented to Chapter President, Janet Kendall White, at the National Women's Business Conference in Louisville on October 9. We are so proud of our board and membership who led to and contributed to this success. This award gives us the fuel to continue to grow and provide valuable education, networking and resources for our NAWBO Cleveland members.
CONGRATULATIONS NAWBO Cleveland Board of Directors and members!
NAWBO Cleveland Launches Online Merchandise Store
CLEVELAND, Ohio --August 1, 2022 -- NAWBO Cleveland announces the launch of their online merchandise store. Members can purchase branded items to show their pride in NAWBO membership.
The first items available in the store are beautiful V-neck and scoop-neck t-shirts in the standard NAWBO green with silver sparkly logo and 2022 motto "Together We Rise." This is the perfect soft tee crafted from three yarns for carefree style, 4.5-ounce, 50/25/25 poly/combed ring spun cotton/rayon and designed with a female-cut and style.
Available for $30 each in sizes small through 3XL (price includes tax and shipping). NAWBO Cleveland member, Shauna Kaminsky, owner of Design Wizard, designed the shirts and will donate $5 from the sale of each shirt, back to the chapter as a fundraiser. Shirts can be shipped, or to save the chapter shipping can picked up at the Design Wizard offices in Northfield or (if ordered by 8/4/22) picked up at the Summer Soiree event.
Step out in NAWBO style!
Order your t-shirt today!
Stronger Together, Together We Rise!
I am honored to serve as our chapter President and work alongside the amazing group of board members and committee volunteers and to stand on the shoulders of so many amazing women that have served in this role before me.
This past month has been a flurry of activity for us each to get grounded in our positions and to start to work together to that end. In the past month we have met for an all-day retreat, developed a 5-year vision, solidified venues for our years calendar, developed a better understanding of how to approach advocacy across the 11 counties that our membership now represents, developed a test program to better onboard our members and much more!
I don’t know what this year will bring in terms of what we will be faced with as business owners, but I do know that I and the board have taken an oath to serve our chapter, our membership, YOU. I think it is important for you to know and understand that oath as we take it very seriously.
We will represent the best interests of NAWBO’s membership and provide the Chapter with the direction to fulfill its mission:
- Strengthening the wealth creating capacity of our members and promoting economic development within the entrepreneurial community
- Creating innovative and effective change in the business culture
- Building strategic alliances, coalitions, and affiliations
- Transforming public policy and influencing opinion makers
Shoulder to shoulder, stronger together, together we rise. We have seen it time and time again that when we engage and collaborate amazing things happen. That is what we should all look forward to and expect with our great chapter of business owners.
As we continue to develop our plans, we shall keep you apprised via email and in meetings. Continually log in to the website and make sure you are registered for upcoming events. A couple this month of note: July 21 - How to Get the Most Out of Your NAWBO Membership and July 26 our joint meeting with NSME!
My encouragement to you is to put yourself in the seat at a variety of our planned events but also reach out to other members and get to know them. Your next best friend, your referral partner, business partner, customer or vendor is right here amongst us. It takes effort on all our parts to discover who that might be, so please do your part to continue the stories and the legacy.
I appreciate the grace and space as we continue to transition, figure out timing of newsletters, etc.
See you soon either virtually or in person,
Janet
5 Year Vision
By June of 2027, the Northeast Ohio NAWBO Chapter has over 200 engaged members with a wide variety of diversity of size and type of business, ethnicities, ages, and tenure of membership throughout the Northeast Ohio geography. Our member onboarding is engaging, consistent and systematized so that all members know the benefits and how to take advantage of them and 100% of the members profiles are complete and up to date. Our member engagement process and system continue to serve as an example for other chapters nationally. Our diversified programming is attractive to our wide variety of categories of members and attendance has increased by 50%. Our Board of Directors and committees work together to assure that we are providing the most effective leadership, education, and information for our members to grow their businesses. We are financially thriving through sponsorships, in-kind donors and financial management allowing scholarships for national conferences to be provided. Our membership is well versed in the NAWBO National Advocacy agenda and participates nationally and locally in making a difference in issues that impact women business owners.
NAWBO CLEVELAND WINS CHAPTER OF THE YEAR AWARD
It is with great honor and excitement that we announce our NAWBO Cleveland chapter has just received the coveted Chapter of the Year Award for 2020-2021. This is an amazing honor and the award will be presented to Chapter President, Barbara Daniel, at the National Women's Business Conference in New Orleans from October 17-19. We are so proud of our board and membership who led to and contributed to this success. This award gives us the fuel to continue to grow and provide valuable education, networking and resources for our NAWBO Cleveland members.
CONGRATULATIONS NAWBO Cleveland!
NAWBO Cleveland Proudly Announces 2021-2022 Board of Directors
Cleveland, OHIO - May 1, 2021 - The Cleveland Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners is proud to announce
their 2021-2022 Board of Directors.
NAWBO Cleveland Offers Premier Members a Marketing Opportunity
NAWBO Cleveland Offers Premier Members a Marketing Opportunity
NAWBO Cleveland is proud to offer its Premier Members the opportunity to be a part of their online “Resources” Business Tips blog, an important feature of the newly-launched website (www.nawbocleveland.org). The NAWBO website features a stand-alone page for Premier Members to showcase their business’ educational value in a supportive environment. This should not be confused with a sales opportunity and articles submitted should be written as purely educational in nature. This information is on a public forum and further shared through the chapter’s social media outlets and their weekly eNews message sent to a mailing list of over 650 business owners; the viewing audience is unlimited.
Qualifications for this opportunity include:
- Premier level member of NAWBO Cleveland
- Articles submitted in format suitable for posting; i.e. Word
- Scheduling permission requested through [email protected]
If you have questions about this opportunity, please contact our Chapter Administrator, Heidi Langer at [email protected].
