Members of the Region 8 Women’s Business Center of Excellence are working to inspire entrepreneurship for women-owned businesses throughout Utah. Photo supplied by WBCUtah
The Women’s Business Center of Utah (WBCUtah) has long been a cornerstone of support, education and empowerment for women entrepreneurs across the state. Recognized as the 2025 Women’s Business Center of Excellence, the organization earned this honor by consistently delivering high-impact programs, expanding access to resources, and driving real economic growth for women-owned businesses throughout Utah.
At the helm of WBCUtah is Ann Marie Wallace, a visionary leader and advocate for women entrepreneurs. Having served 14 years with the center, including 11 as state director, Ann Marie’s journey is one of both personal and professional transformation. She first connected with WBCUtah as a client launching her own small business before becoming an advisor and now is currently the driving force behind its extraordinary growth.Under Ann Marie’s leadership, WBCUtah has expanded its reach to nearly every county, quadrupling the number of women served annually. The center has tripled its staff and budget, modernized its technology, and launched Utah’s first directory of women-owned businesses, ensuring greater visibility and accessibility for female entrepreneurs.
A key partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), WBCUtah plays a crucial role in connecting women entrepreneurs to SBA resources, loan programs and mentorship opportunities. Through its one-on-one business advising, specialized programming and educational training, the center helps women at all stages of business ownership — from startup to scaling and sustainability.
WBCUtah has hired remote team members from rural areas to better support women across the state and has launched multi-week intensive programs to address the specific challenges faced by solopreneurs, diverse business owners, and women-led companies looking to grow.
Recent milestones underscore WBCUtah’s commitment to impact:
• Doubled the number of Utah women served annually, now reaching 1,500 business owners.
• Expanded the Utah Women-Owned Business Directory, growing from 1,000 to 3,300 listings.
• Developed 51-plus online business courses, making resources accessible statewide.
• Launched new accelerator programs, including those for solopreneurs and diverse business owners.
• Traveled over 10,000 miles across Utah, hosting 34 outreach events to support rural entrepreneurs.
By empowering women to build confidence, create opportunities and achieve lasting success, WBCUtah is not just supporting businesses — it’s transforming Utah’s economy, one entrepreneur at a time. This award is a testament to the center’s dedication, innovation, and lasting impact on Utah’s women entrepreneurs.