Congresswoman Kuster discussing the critical role women entrepreneurs play in the

North Country economy and throughout New Hampshire.

(Bethlehem, NH) – Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) held a roundtable discussion with the Women’s Rural Entrepreneurial Network (WREN) to discuss their work and explore ways the federal government can better support women entrepreneurs. The discussion focused on issues faced by women-owned small businesses, including access to capital, workforce training and transportation in the North Country.  The roundtable was also an opportunity to discuss how organizations like USDA Rural Development, the Small Business Administration, and the Northern Border Regional Commission can help women entrepreneurs succeed.

“The Women’s Rural Entrepreneurial Network is doing incredible work to support Granite State female entrepreneurs and small businesses,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “We must continue to support this important network to ensure the success of future businesses and female leaders. I congratulate WREN on all that they have done and continue to do for our growing economy.”

"WREN is honored that Congresswoman Kuster recognized it as a hub for entrepreneurs in the North Country,” said Alison Chisolm, Acting Executive Director of WREN. “We are excited to partner with her in bringing resources and support to those who are starting and growing successful businesses in our rural communities."

Kuster was joined by Alison Chisolm, Acting Executive Director of WREN; Ruth Ann Hacking, Farm & Food Program Manager of WREN; Dawn Berg of Cherry Blossom Floral Design; Audrey Crowe of Audrey Crowe Landscapes; Kate Foley of Cold Mountain Café; Julie Fowler, a Jewelry Maker and Farmers Market Vendor; Carrie Gendreau of Training Connection Professional Services and Emma’s Closet Consignment Store; Angel Larcom, a Graphic Design Artist at Larcom Studios; Mary Moritz of the Mulburn Inn; Michelle Palys of TarryHo Campground; and Marghie Seymour, a ceramist.

The participants offered insights and suggestions for how to best support small businesses in the North Country. The group also shared their own personal experiences and discussed the Women’s Small Business Ownership Act, legislation the Congresswoman supports that would improve access to lending and increase business counseling and training services for women entrepreneurs through the Small Business Administration, while giving women-owned businesses the same level of access to federal contracts as other underrepresented groups.

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