Utah leaders unite to sign proclamation supporting women entrepreneurs

Leaders from Utah’s government, business and nonprofit sectors gathered in Salt Lake City recently for the ceremonial signing of the “Utah Proclamation for Women’s Entrepreneurial Empowerment.” 

The signing coincided with Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, a global initiative celebrating women innovators and economic leaders. 

“The ‘Utah Proclamation for Women’s Entrepreneurial Empowerment’ is historic,” said Ann Marie Wallace, state director of the Women’s Business Center of Utah (WBCUtah). “It brings statewide attention to women-owned businesses and provides support, resources and opportunities to help them grow, gain confidence and thrive in Utah’s economy.”

Wallace said the proclamation recognizes the critical role of women-owned businesses in Utah, which generate approximately $14 billion in annual revenues and employ over 89,000 Utahns. It also highlights the challenges women entrepreneurs may face, including access to capital, networks and growth opportunities, she said.

Signatories of the proclamation pledge to complete at least one of 10 voluntary actions by Nov. 19, 2026, such as mentoring women entrepreneurs, supporting women-owned businesses, promoting policy improvements or showcasing women-led business achievements.

The signing event featured remarks from Wallace, who emphasized the significance of the proclamation and the shared responsibility to support a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem for all Utahns.

Susan Madsen, founder and director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, presented research illustrating both the successes and ongoing opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Utah.

“The signing of the ‘Utah Proclamation for Women’s Entrepreneurial Empowerment’ marks a pivotal step toward building a stronger, more innovative economy in Utah,” said Madsen. “I was thrilled to join leaders, organizations and communities from across the state in this important event. We are grateful to A Bolder Way Forward and the Women’s Business Center of Utah for leading this proclamation and gathering. Together, we are boldly declaring that women entrepreneurs are essential to Utah’s future.”

Individuals and organizations statewide are invited to digitally sign the proclamation at https://wkf.ms/49KqW14, committing to at least one action and sharing their impact using the hashtag #UtahWomenOwned. The proclamation is effective immediately and will remain active through Nov. 19, 2026.