THE BOW COLLECTIVE
CAPITAL CONTRACTS COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS COMMUNICATIONS
THE YEAR OF BOW BREAKING BARRIERS…
Dear Esteemed Members, Partners, and Supporters,
This year marked a defining moment in our journey—a time of rising, reaching, and reimagining what’s possible when Black women lead together. While we called it The Year of Breaking Barriers, it became much more. It was a year of building bridges—to capital, contracts, community, and deeper connection.
We entered 2024 with bold intentions and a shared vision. What followed was extraordinary. Together, we launched new initiatives, welcomed powerful partnerships, and opened doors in places that once seemed out of reach. We strengthened our internal foundation while expanding our external influence—across boardrooms, policy tables, procurement pipelines, and national platforms.
But the most meaningful moments weren’t found in numbers alone. They were in the everyday acts of courage and care:
• A sister reaching out to say, “I see you.”
• A room filled with women who didn’t wait for permission—they created space for one another to thrive.
This is the heart of The BOW Collective. Our strength lies not just in our brilliance, but in our bond. And in 2024, we were reminded: when we lead together, we don’t just move the needle—we transform the entire system.
This report is both a reflection and a roadmap. A celebration of how far we’ve come and a call to keep going. Because our work is not done. Not even close.
As we step boldly into the next chapter of BOW Breaking Barriers, let us continue to dream without limits, lead without fear, and lift as we climb.
Thank you for being part of this movement. Thank you for saying yes—to the mission, the vision, and to one another.
• A collaboration built on shared purpose.
• A contract won—not just for profit, but for impact.
With honor and purpose, THE PRESIDENT AND OFFICERS THE BOW COLLECTIVE
SISTERHOOD.
“In 2024, we embraced the Paradigm Shift—redirecting our time, talent, and treasure to build powerful businesses. As Business Philanthropists, the women of The BOW Collective are no longer just giving back—we’re building forward, creating lasting impact through enterprise. ”
NICOLE COBER, ESQ.
FOUNDER, PRESIDENT, & CEO, THE BOW COLLECTIVE
OUR STORY. OUR JOURNEY. IT MATTERS!
ABOUT THE BOW COLLECTIVE
We are a 501 (c) (3) business development and an advocacy community comprised of the Nation’s top 1% most successful business owners.
Through collaboration with both our allies and one another, we as Black women business owners endeavor to scale our businesses and mentor smaller entities.
We believe that by focusing on securing capital, contracts and connections, we will increase revenues of all Black women enterprises and impact our communities.
MISSION
The mission of The BOW Collective is to create a space for Black women business owners to overcome historically challenging disparities in the business sector. Members’ collective efforts will scale BOW businesses using capital, communications, and contracts.
Our organization is committed to raising underserved Black women enterprises through securing capital, fundraising, training, and education of members, and collaborating on business opportunities that will impact Black communities. The BOW Collective strives to practice the true spirit of perseverance and fellowship with their relationships, collaboration, and services to better Black Women business owners.
VISION
To serve as a beacon for Black Women sharing common goals, coming together to establish a sisterhood dedicated to the collaborative pursuit of financing, fellowship, and scalable business ventures.
Rooted in a commitment to foster a supportive community, the organization strives to pave the way for future business owners by creating a robust pipeline of opportunities.
In our quest to amplify impact, The BOW Collective actively seeks partnerships with other organizations that align with our purpose, recognizing that collective efforts are instrumental in achieving meaningful progress and lasting change.
EXPECTATION
“We’re not just managing operations—we’re engineering the future. Every system we build and every decision we make is grounded in long-term sustainability. At The BOW Collective, we are designing infrastructure that not only supports our members today but fortifies our impact for generations. This is how we lead—with intention, with precision, and with a relentless commitment to lasting success.”
TICKI FAVAROTH VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
TICKI FAVAROTH VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
OPERATIONS
As Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The BOW Collective, I am both honored and deeply committed to the work we are doing together.
At this moment in time—when the world is slowly catching up to truths we’ve always known—we stand shoulder to shoulder, united in purpose and conviction. Together, we are not just responding to the challenges Black women face in business—we are building the infrastructure that ensures our success is sustainable, our growth is exponential, and our impact is undeniable.
This is more than a movement. It’s a blueprint for what’s possible when we commit to one another’s rise.
Our mission goes far beyond simply opening doors—it is about ensuring Black women have everything they need to walk through those doors with confidence, to scale with intention, and to thrive without compromise. In a landscape that often overlooks or underestimates us, we shine a collective light that makes our presence impossible to ignore. And in doing so, we illuminate the way for others.
Within the BOW Collective, we do not just champion purpose—we operationalize it. We recognize that every Black woman entrepreneur brings a unique brilliance and story that deserves to be celebrated, supported, and strengthened. We are here to reflect that truth back to her, every step of the way.
Even as the world’s attention shifts, our commitment does not waver. We remain rooted. Present. Steadfast. Our support is not seasonal—it is constant. It is strategic. It is personal.
To every sister navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship and life, know this: You do not walk alone. We are here to lift, to lead, and to walk with you—not only in moments of triumph, but in the quiet, complex, courageous spaces where true transformation begins.
This is our pledge: to rise for one another. To build boldly. To lead with love. And to never stop breaking barriers—together.
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN 2024
In 2024, The BOW Collective made intentional strides toward enhancing our operational infrastructure, ensuring that our internal systems and processes could support our growing impact and expanding vision. By investing in the backbone of our organization, we positioned ourselves for long-term sustainability and scale. We revisited and refined the core processes that drive our mission forward. These refinements brought clarity, consistency, and increased impact across all facets of our operations.
With the support of targeted grant funding and the unwavering dedication of our members, we were able to make significant improvements in several critical areas:
OUR ANNUAL STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS 2025-2026
Became more inclusive and data-driven, aligning initiatives with measurable outcomes.
IMPACT
Since 2024
7K 70 %
The # of applications in our pipeline refers to the volume of submissions or requests that are currently under consideration or in progress within our system.
OUR PARTNERSHIP ENGAGEMENT PROCESS
Was redesigned to attract aligned stakeholders and deepen value on both sides of the table.
THE EMERALD BOW SELECTION PROCESS
Was strengthened to highlight impact and ensure transparency.
The % of candidates who completed the membership process successfully navigated the application and met the criteria for becoming members.
4 % 65%
The % of members who did not renew or were not extended an offer to continue membership.
The membership of The BOW experienced growth from 2023 to 2024, showcasing a positive and upward trajectory during this period.
8% 100%
Our partnerships saw a significant increase, jumping from 16 to 20—a noteworthy expansion
Secured a substantial grant from MassMutual, Paramount & Truist marking a significant milestone in our funding achievements.
affluence
“At The BOW Collective, financial leadership is about more than numbers—it’s about vision. We lead with strategic foresight and disciplined stewardship to ensure stability today and scalability tomorrow. Our commitment to sound financial practices fuels bold initiatives, drives sustainable growth, and secures a prosperous future for every member.”
S. KATHRYN ALLEN ESQ. TREASURER & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
THE BOW COLLECTIVE BUDGET FRAMEWORK
To ensure transparency, accountability, and strategic financial oversight, The BOW Collective will provide quarterly financial updates in alignment with our fiscal calendar. These updates will include key financial metrics, budget performance, revenue streams, expense management, and investment strategies.
Key Financial Vehicles are continuously monitored, assessed, and refined to ensure strategic alignment and long-term sustainability.
• MEMBERSHIP DUES | Annual fees sustain operations, programming, and member services.
• PARTNERSHIPS | Contributions from corporations, institutions, and allies to fund events, advocacy, and initiatives.
• EVENTS | Revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, vendor participation, and conference programming.
• GRANTS & DONATIONS | Philanthropic, corporate, and government support for programs, advocacy, and impact work.
• BOW INSTITUTE | Income from leadership development, training programs, certifications, and educational tools.
• SPEAKING & PUBLICATIONS | Earnings from keynote engagements, panel discussions, published reports, and thought leadership.
• MERCHANDISE | Sales of BOW-branded apparel and promotional items supporting visibility and revenue.
• FOUNDER IN-KIND SERVICES | Donated expertise, services, and media support from founding members to reduce operational costs while accelerating impact.
S. KATHRYN ALLEN, ESQ. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER & TREASURER
FINANCIALS
As the Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The BOW Collective, I am honored to reflect on a transformative year marked by growth, alignment, and collective impact.
In 2024, we advanced our mission to build an economically powerful sisterhood of Black women business owners. It has been both a privilege and a responsibility to steward our financial resources with integrity and purpose—ensuring our budget supports not just operations, but also legacy-building for generations to come.
2024 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
• $1,260,501 Total Revenue
Driven by strong member engagement, strategic partnerships, and program expansion.
• $1,393,499 Total Expenses
Reflecting our ongoing investments in infrastructure, programming, and member services.
• Clean Financial Oversight
Maintained through transparent reporting, strong internal controls, and sound fiscal planning.
This year was about more than numbers—it was about alignment. Alignment of vision, capital, purpose, and power. Together, we are building something historic.
EVOLVING OUR FINANCIAL FRAMEWORK
Since our founding in 2022, The BOW Collective’s financial strategy has evolved to support our rapid growth and expanding vision. As we scale, we remain committed to deploying sustainable funding models that reinforce our mission, empower our members, and strengthen our collective impact.
THE PARADIGM SHIFT 2024
DESTIN,
CAPITAL
S. KATHRYN ALLEN & THERESA HARRISON
Capital is not just a pillar—it’s our power move.
In 2024, The BOW Collective embraced a paradigm shift: moving from asking for access to building our own capital ecosystem. Our mission is clear—empower our members to scale, grow, and own their financial future.
Chaired by S. Kathryn Allen and Theresa Harrison, the Capital Committee leads this charge with strategy and intention. We’re not waiting for doors to open—we’re designing the blueprint. From grants and lines of credit to term loans and private equity, we’re cultivating bold partnerships and unlocking new investment pathways.
By fostering financial fluency, strengthening capital networks, and advancing legacy-minded planning, the Capital Committee is fueling a future where every BOW member has the resources to thrive—and the power to reinvest in others.
This is capital reimagined. This is the paradigm shift in action.
Co-Chairs:
THE BOW CAPITAL CONFERENCE
Charlotte, North Carolina
We’re building momentum—and Charlotte felt it.
The BOW Collective’s Third Annual Capital Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina was more than an event— it was a movement. As we continue to shift the paradigm in how capital is accessed, leveraged, and multiplied, this landmark gathering marked a defining moment in our journey toward generational wealth and business transformation.
With Charlotte’s vibrant financial backdrop as our stage, we brought together a powerhouse of visionaries— top-tier members, industry thought leaders, financial institutions, and capital partners—for two days of bold conversations and actionable insights. Together, we explored forward-thinking strategies in wealth building, capital access, and investment collaboration. And the traction is real.
Over 40 new members joined The BOW Collective during the conference, signaling a powerful expansion of our ecosystem. The diversity and depth of expertise they bring only strengthen our collective capacity to scale businesses, influence systems, and own the narrative around Black women and capital.
This conference wasn’t just a success—it was a statement.
It affirmed The BOW Collective’s role as a trailblazing force in financial empowerment, activating networks, educating our community, and changing how capital flows to women-led businesses. Our presence in Charlotte sparked a ripple effect—and we’re just getting started.
The shift is here. And we are the shift.
INTERESTED IN PARTNERING OR LEARNING MORE ABOUT OUR CAPITAL INITIATIVES?
Reach out to us at capital@thebowcollective.org to explore sponsorship opportunities or get details on upcoming events. Let’s build wealth, together.
CAPITAL CONFERENCE NORTH CAROLINA
EVERY BOW EXPERIENCE BEGINS WITH WORSHIP—AND OUR CAPITAL CONFERENCE WAS NO EXCEPTION.
We opened with a powerful spiritual activation, launching the very first BOW Church moment. Local ministries, anointed songstresses, and heartfelt prayers led by our own members set the tone for the days ahead. It was more than an opening— it was a divine alignment, reminding us that faith is the foundation of our collective power and purpose
THE BOW COLLECTIVE MAKES AN IMPACT WHEREVER WE GO—AND CHARLOTTE WAS NO DIFFERENT.
As part of our introduction to the city, we hosted a dynamic Welcome Reception for over more the 30+ local business owners and community leaders. The evening served as an opportunity to share our mission, highlight our capital initiatives, and connect with powerful women driving change in the region. These meaningful conversations formed new relationships and affirmed our belief that impact follows when purpose-driven women come together. Charlotte showed up—and so did we.
THE BOW COLLECTIVE’S EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM USES EACH CONFERENCE AS A STRATEGIC CHECKPOINT.
It’s our time to reflect, realign, and reimagine the road ahead. With 23 dynamic leaders at the helm, we actively review our strategic plan, assess progress, and map out priorities for the year to come—ensuring The BOW Collective remains vibrant, visionary, and built to last.
Our leadership is not just guiding the organization; we are boldly moving the vision forward, together.
OUR EMERALD BOW, MELISSA BRADLEY, LED A POWERFUL FIRESIDE CHAT THAT LIT THE PATH FORWARD.
In an intimate and insightful session, Melissa shared hardearned wisdom on the road to equity—offering members practical guidance on building capital, strengthening operations, and scaling with intention.
The conversation wasn’t just informative—it was transformative. Members walked away with clarity, confidence, and the tools to build not just successful businesses, but sustainable legacies.
AT PARADIGM SHIFT, WE CENTERED THE WHOLE PERSON—NOT JUST THE BUSINESS.
Our BOW Doctors and expert industry practitioners led powerful conversations around work-life balance, mental health, and the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces.
We know that success isn’t just about scaling companies—it’s about sustaining the people behind them. That’s why we’re committed to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit, so our members can build not only the businesses they envision, but the lives and legacies they truly deserve.
CAPITAL PARTNERS & IMPACT
BOW LaJuanna Russell CEO, Business Management Associates, Inc Capital Conference Planning Co-Chair
BOW Karla Trotman CEO, Electro Soft, Inc. Capital Conference Planning Co-Chair
THANK YOU FROM CAPITAL CONFERENCE CO-CHAIRS
LAJUANA RUSSELL & KARLA TORTMAN
Planning this year’s Capital Conference has been an incredible honor. From the start, our shared vision was to create a transformative experience—one that delivered real insights, cultivated powerful connections, and empowered our members, partners, and the local community with strategies to build, sustain, and scale wealth.
Guided by this year’s theme, Paradigm Shift, we were intentional about expanding the definition of capital—not just as currency, but as capacity, confidence, and community. We are proud to have contributed to a conference that elevated the conversation and inspired action.
CAPITAL PARTNERS
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors who helped make this experience possible. Your partnership and belief in our mission added immeasurable value and helped set the tone for a bold and forward-looking dialogue around financial empowerment.
It has been our absolute pleasure to serve The BOW Collective in this way. We are excited about what’s ahead and grateful to be part of this powerful journey.
COMMUNITY
Co-Chairs: TICKI FAVAROTH, RACHEL TALTON, JANDIE TURNER, CANDI DAILEY & KIM ALFONSO
Community is the heartbeat of The BOW Collective—and in 2024, that rhythm became a roar.
In alignment with this year’s Paradigm Shift, we proudly welcomed over 60 phenomenal women—visionaries, builders, and changemakers—into our growing sisterhood. Each new member represents not just growth in numbers, but an expansion of power, purpose, and possibility within our ecosystem.
Our unwavering commitment to every BOW member is rooted in the belief that our true power lies in our connection to one another. The Community Committee is the soul of this work—curating spaces of care, celebration, and deep intentionality so that every woman is not just welcomed, but fully embraced and uplifted.
From managing onboarding and life milestones, to leading transformative initiatives like the Ambassador’s Program, The BOW Institute, and Certifiably Diverse, we don’t just build process—we build belonging. We are intentional about cultivating an environment filled with joy, diversity, growth, and grace, where every member thrives in the fullness of who she is.
Guided by the dynamic leadership of Co-Chairs Ticki Favaroth, Rachel Talton, Jandie Turner, Candi Dailey, Kim Alfonso, and a powerful network of member leaders, we proudly operate under the banner of Community Engagement Excellence. Together, we are shaping a culture where connection is currency, and where every member’s journey is honored.
This is more than membership—it’s movement. It’s mentorship. It’s legacy in motion.
And make no mistake—we’re just getting started.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS & IMPACT
THANK YOU FROM OUR ANNUAL CONFERENCE CHAIRS
As we plan our Annual Conference—our signature event and a defining moment for The BOW Collective—we pause to reflect with deep gratitude and pride.
To our partners, sponsors, and members— thank you. Your unwavering support, belief in our mission, and dedication to elevating Black women-owned businesses made this year’s conference not only possible but transformational.
The 2023 Annual Conference: The Paradigm Shift was nothing short of extraordinary. Together, we created a space where businesses were not just showcased—but transformed. Insights were shared, deals were sparked, and members left equipped to position their companies for exponential growth. We went deeper—beyond capital, contracts, and policy—into the heart of what truly drives sustainable success: community, confidence, and capacity.
From dynamic panels to powerful connections, every moment of the conference reflected our commitment to redefining what’s possible for our members. We didn’t just shift the conversation—we elevated it.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors who helped make this experience possible. Your partnership brought vision to life and set the tone for a bold, future-focused dialogue around financial empowerment and entrepreneurial excellence.
It has been our honor to serve The BOW Collective through this milestone experience. And as we look ahead to 2025, we are energized, inspired, and ready to continue building—together.
This is more than a conference. This is a movement. This is The BOW Collective.
THE WHITE HOUSE
KNOWS THE WHITE HOUSE
B W Tie
As we build this movement, our BOW Ties walk alongside us not only to support our members, but to help drive lasting impact and legacy. Together, we are reshaping systems, creating access, and amplifying the change we want to see in the world.
This journey isn’t just about business— it’s about building something bigger.
ENTREPRENEURIAL WORKBOOK
BOW COMMUNITY IMPACT
In 2024, our BOW Sisters redefined what it means to do business—with purpose, power, and people at the center.
More than ever, our members stepped into the spotlight not just as entrepreneurs but as community builders, advocates, and changemakers. With deep roots and bold vision, they expanded their work as community ambassadors, growing their brands through family foundations, nonprofits, and civic leadership—each action reflects their commitment to something greater than themselves.
This was not just a year of growth—it was a year of reckoning.
2024 brought a series of national challenges that demanded clarity, courage, and conviction. The scaling back of DEI programs across industries,
rising political polarization, economic uncertainty, and the continued erosion of rights and protections for marginalized communities shook the foundation of progress we’ve fought so hard to build.
But BOW Sisters did what we’ve always done—we rose. Rather than retreat, our members leaned into the work, turning these challenges into fuel. They mobilized resources, spoke out with intention, created safe spaces for dialogue and healing, and launched community initiatives that filled gaps in education, healthcare, mental wellness, and economic opportunity.
We aren’t just building businesses—we’re building movements.
We are intentionally aligning our missions with the needs of our people—ensuring that our success is not siloed, but shared. Whether mentoring the next generation, supporting voter engagement, funding grassroots change, or standing in the gap where others remain silent, our members are doing the work that shifts culture and redefines legacy.
This is the Paradigm Shift in action.
Where Black women lead with purpose, build with integrity, and show the world what it truly means to create wealth, impact, and community—all at once.
HOW WE HELP
This represents only a fraction of the philanthropic initiatives that our members actively endorse or personally spearhead. Within our community, a diverse range of charitable endeavors takes root, each driven by the passion and commitment of our members to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it’s supporting local causes, championing global initiatives, or actively participating in community outreach programs, our members consistently demonstrate their dedication to philanthropy by contributing their time, resources, and expertise to create meaningful change.
LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY
BOW Sister Sophia Harris, a committed advocate, has recently taken on the role of ambassador for this remarkable organization.
TWELVE DAYS
The children’s literacy program receives backing from our BOW sisters, including Nicole, Keisha, Meedie, Nicole Roberts J, Marquel, Fatimah, and Michele.
WILLIAMS FRANKLIN FOUNDATION
BOW Sister LaShelle has dedicated her non-profit to providing support for scholarships at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
AFRICAN ENTREPRENEUR FORUM
BOW Sister Karla extended invitations to numerous members to participate in the Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF). This award-winning pan-African organization focuses on women’s economic empowerment, holding a Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). AWIEF is actively engaged in promoting women’s business leadership and entrepreneurship across Africa, contributing to the reduction of the gender gap.
ADISA INSTITUTE
BOW Sister Ticki has initiated a foundation aimed at fostering early career development and apprenticeship programs. This initiative extends support not only through her own company but also by collaborating with other organizations to promote skill-building opportunities for emerging talents.
INTEGRATING NEW MEMBERS INTO THE BOW COMMUNITY
At the heart of The BOW Collective’s mission is the commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for the incorporation of new companies and CEOs. We strive to ensure that their integration into our community is not only smooth but also aligns seamlessly with the very essence of our mission and vision.
Our approach to integration is underpinned by five fundamental principles, each designed to cultivate a sense of belonging, purpose, and collaboration within our collective:
INCLUSIVITY
We embrace diversity and welcome a multitude of perspectives, recognizing that the strength of our community lies in the rich tapestry of experiences and backgrounds.
COLLABORATIVE ENGAGEMENT
We promote active engagement and collaboration among our members, encouraging open dialogue, idea-sharing, and cooperative efforts to achieve collective success.
GUIDED PARTNERSHIPS
By fostering partnerships and leveraging collective experiences, we offer guidance and support to newcomers, equipping them with the essential tools and knowledge to navigate the distinctive landscape of our community.
ALIGNMENT WITH VALUES
We ensure that the values and goals of new companies and CEOs align harmoniously with the overarching mission and vision of The BOW Collective, fostering a cohesive and unified community.
CONTINUOUS LEARNING
Embracing the spirit of lifelong learning, we facilitate opportunities for ongoing education and skill development, empowering all members to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the collective’s growth.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership is the heartbeat of The BOW Collective. It is the strength, vision, and collective power of our members that fuels this extraordinary movement of Black women business owners. Their unwavering commitment, bold leadership, and diverse brilliance form the foundation of everything we’ve built—and everything we’re becoming.
In 2024, as we embraced the Paradigm Shift, our members didn’t just show up—they showed out. They shared resources, opened doors, and amplified one another’s voices, proving that when we rise together, we go farther, faster.
This is more than a network—it’s a force.
A dynamic ecosystem where legacy is created, collaboration thrives, and empowerment is not just a value—it’s a way of life. Our members are not only the reason we exist—they are the reason we excel.
The BOW Collective is not built by one—it is built by all. Together, we are shaping the future of business, leadership, and impact.
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE
In 2024, The BOW Collective activated a bold step in our evolution—executing our succession plan to usher in the next generation of leadership.
From the very beginning, our members have been the driving force behind this movement—visionaries, builders, and changemakers shaping the direction of our organization from within.
As part of this year’s Paradigm Shift, we embraced change as both necessary and powerful. While some members completed their leadership terms and transitioned out, new leaders courageously stepped forward—and others remained in place to ensure stability, continuity, and momentum. This intentional blend of legacy and innovation is what keeps our foundation strong and our future bright.
At The BOW Collective, we believe that everything we need is already within us.
Our strength lies in our members, and our committees are not just functional—they are transformational. Each committee leader holds the mirror up to reflect where we are and where we must go. Through their leadership, we push boundaries, elevate our standards, and take this organization to the next level.
Leadership at BOW isn’t assigned—it’s activated.
And in 2024, we saw that truth come to life.
BOW Mariko Bennett Champions, Advocacy
BOW DEE C. MARSHALL Champions, Advisory
BOW CHANEL CHRISTOFF DAVIS Contracts, Commercial
BOW DURECIA MOORER Contracts, Commercial
CONTRACTS
COMMUNITY
CHAMPIONS
CAPITAL HEALTH
BOW Dr. Rachel Talton Community, Member Experience
BOW Candi Dailey Community, Events
BOW Jandie Smith Turner Community, Events
SBO Kimberley Alfonso Community, SHSH
BOW Ingrid Cox Community, BOW
BOW Romina Brown Community, Emerald BOW
SBO Brittney Carter Community, SBO
SBO Sylvia K. Alston Champions, Advocacy
BOW Janet Crenshaw Smith Champions, Advisory Board
BOW Nia KingRubie Champions, Advocacy
SHSH LaTanya White Champions, Advocacy
BOW Sylvia Johnson BOW & EMERALD BOW PAC
BOW Vernice Armour Champions, Advisory Board
BOW Towanna Burrous BOW & EMERALD BOW PAC
BOW Ann Williams Capital
BOW Ricki Fairley Health
SBO Keisha A. Rivers Communications & IT SHSH Alegra Hall Communications & IT
BOW Markiesha Wilson Contracts, BOW United
BOW Romina Brown Community, Data Strategy
MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES MEMBERS ARE CHANGING THE WORLD
Within our vibrant community, the unwavering support among members is a cornerstone, creating a dynamic environment where individuals consistently come together to foster meaningful connections. These connections extend beyond mere interactions, evolving into enduring relationships that contribute to the overall strength of our community.
INNOVATION
“Frederick Douglass reminded us that power concedes nothing without a demand. In this era of Paradigm Shift, The BOW Collective is not just making a demand—we are redefining the terms. Through ownership, advocacy, and legacy-building, we are not asking for permission. We are claiming our place, making history, and shaping the future—on our own terms.”
THERESA HARRISON HISTORIAN
CONTRACTS
Co-Chairs: THERESA HARRISON, MICHELE TAYLOR and JACKIE LOPEZ
In 2024, The BOW Collective went bold—ushering in a Paradigm Shift in how we approach contracts in both the commercial and government sectors.
We are no longer waiting to be invited to the table—we are building our own, and bringing others with us. At the core of The BOW Collective’s mission is a powerful commitment to help our members secure the contracts that scale companies and transform legacies.
Through targeted resources, high-impact networking, and strategic guidance, we empower our members to confidently navigate complex procurement landscapes and unlock new opportunities for growth. This isn’t just support—it’s strategy in action.
Our Contract Committee plays a critical role in this movement, serving as a catalyst for corporate and government engagement. In partnership with the Advisory Board Committee, they track and cultivate key corporate affiliations, broker strategic partnerships, and lead efforts that open doors to capital, contracts, and collaboration.
From advising BOW members on securing high-value corporate contracts to hosting dine-around events that spark powerful connections, the committee creates pathways to real impact. These curated experiences allow members to engage directly with decision-makers, turning conversations into contracts.
The Commercial Committee further strengthens these relationships, ensuring that BOW businesses not only have access but are fully equipped to thrive within commercial environments. By driving innovation and building trust with corporate partners, they are helping reshape how Black women business owners are seen, valued, and invested in.
This is more than a shift. It’s a movement. And we’re leading it.
CHAMPION
“In this Paradigm Shift, advocacy isn’t just a commitment—it’s our call to action.
At The BOW Collective, championing policy and driving change is how we amplify our collective voice and demand systems that work for us. It’s how we shape a future rooted in justice, equity, and unstoppable progress.
We’re not just influencing the narrative—we’re rewriting it. ”
AIMEE GRIFFIN, ESQ.
GENERAL COUNSEL
CHAMPIONS ADVOCACY
Co-Chairs:
AIMEE GRIFFIN, ESQ & MARIKO BENNETT
With our focus on a Paradigm Shift, advocacy is not a sidebar—it’s our strategy.
The Advocacy Committee of The BOW Collective is boldly leading the charge to influence policy, elevate community priorities, and activate our collective power for lasting change. With unwavering focus, the committee equips our members to craft powerful narratives, mobilize action, and build influence across public and private sectors.
Whether through lobbying, public speaking, stakeholder engagement, or digital advocacy, we are committed to amplifying the issues that matter most—to our members and the communities we serve.
A defining moment came in 2023, when The BOW Collective made its historic debut on Capitol Hill, meeting with lawmakers and standing firm on issues critical to Black women entrepreneurs. This milestone was just the beginning.
In a bold next step, we launched our Political Action Committee (PAC) to further extend our reach and impact. With this powerful tool, The BOW Collective can now directly support policy that reflects our vision, protects our interests, and propels our mission forward.
Through strategic action, courageous leadership, and a shared commitment to equity, the Advocacy Committee continues to be a driving force in shaping the future we deserve.
We’re not just shifting the paradigm—we’re influencing the policies that define it.
CHAMPIONS ADVISORY
Co-Chairs: NICOLE COBER, DEE MARSHALL, RICKI FAIRLEY, & VERNICE ARMOUR
In the spirit of the Paradigm Shift, The BOW Collective established the Advisory Board with clear purpose and bold intention: to gather a powerful network of subject matter experts, seasoned business leaders, and passionate allies who are deeply committed to advancing the success of Black women-owned businesses.
More than a prestigious title, the Advisory Board serves as a strategic force—offering insights, mentorship, and direction that help shape our organization’s vision and amplify our impact. With diverse experience and a shared commitment to equity, this board plays a vital role in ensuring The BOW Collective continues to grow with integrity, innovation, and purpose.
In 2023, we launched a rigorous selection process to form this inaugural board and align it with the creation of our Political Action Committee (PAC). Ten extraordinary leaders were selected through a deliberate and values-based approach, grounded in the following criteria:
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting Black women entrepreneurs
• Advocacy or allyship with a proven track record of impact
• Influence across multiple business communities and networks
• Strategic expertise and industry leadership
• Willingness to contribute time, insights, and energy to our mission
Together, these leaders serve as trusted advisors and champions, helping guide The BOW Collective through the complex landscapes of policy, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment. This isn’t just an advisory board—it’s a strategic shift.
One that ensures we don’t just participate in the future of business— we shape it.
ADVANCE
“At the BOW Collective, communication is our superpower.
We advance The BOW Collective by leveraging technology and storytelling to build bridges—connecting our members, amplifying our voices, and expanding our reach far beyond the room. Through innovation and intention, we create a unified, thriving network where every message moves us forward.”
DR. KEISHA MACK
SECRETARY
COMMUNICATIONS & IT
Co-Chairs: DR. KEISHA MACK, KEISHA RIVERS & ALEGRA HALL
Effective communication and smart technology are the engines driving our collective forward.
At The BOW Collective, the Communications Committee plays a strategic and essential role in shaping our voice, strengthening our brand, and deepening engagement across every touchpoint.
From building out a dynamic Social Media Calendar to curating powerful speaker topics that help our members elevate their brands, the committee is laser-focused on visibility, storytelling, and reach. We’re also cultivating media relationships, driving engagement through our monthly newsletter, and supporting initiatives like the 8A Subcommittee, the Certifiably Diverse platform, and broader IT integration.
In 2024, we made major strides in tech innovation—including key enhancements to our BOW App, streamlined conference systems, and strengthened partnerships with platforms like Certifiably Diverse. These efforts have made our communications not only more effective, but more inclusive, interactive, and future-ready. The Communications Committee is more than a support function— it’s a strategic force, amplifying the voice of The BOW Collective and powering the connections that keep our movement strong.
MEDIA ROOM
3rd
HAPPY THIRD ANNIVERSARY
CONCLUSION
As we close this year’s chapter, what we unveil is more than an annual report—it’s a living story of purpose, progress, and possibility.
This report is not just a collection of data points or financial summaries; it is a reflection of the collective spirit, bold leadership, and tireless dedication of our members, team, and community. It is a testament to what happens when vision meets action—when Black women come together to build, uplift, and lead.
2024 was a year of Paradigm Shift—a time when we faced not only complexity and challenge but also extraordinary growth, learning, and transformation. The hurdles we encountered became the very foundation upon which new strategies were built, ideas were born, and impact was expanded.
Behind every milestone and every moment of progress lies the unwavering commitment of our collective. Whether it was a strategic breakthrough, a quiet act of support, or a major community achievement—every contribution mattered.
And now, we turn the page.
With gratitude in our hearts and purpose in our stride, we step into the next twelve months with renewed momentum and sharpened focus. We are ready to embrace bold initiatives, deepen our impact, and continue building a future that reflects the values we hold dear—equity, excellence, and empowerment.
Together, we’re not just continuing a mission—we’re reshaping the future.
This is our movement. This is our moment.