American Business Women’s Day
American Business Women’s Day celebrates the bold energy of women shaping the business world across the United States. It’s a moment to recognize their impact—running companies, launching ideas, leading teams, and making powerful moves in every industry.
Celebrate women entrepreneurs and professionals with mentorship, networking, and procurement campaigns that drive community engagement and support for women-owned businesses.
- Spotlight women-owned businesses and drive sales through social media campaigns
- Host virtual or in-person networking events and mentorship programs for female professionals
- Share inspirational success stories and leadership lessons from notable businesswomen
- Launch procurement initiatives encouraging B2B buyers to partner with women entrepreneurs
Notable campaigns5
- Samsung (International Women's Day (related approach)): Employee testimonial campaign: Featured female employees from different countries sharing what motivates and empowers them; invited illustrators to create art based on their stories, presented in video + downloadable wallpapers
- GoPro (2024): Week of Women campaign: Social media celebration featuring female 'sHEROs' with first-person action clips (surf, sports, conservation) + empowerment messaging about women taking space in society
- PayPal (2019): Balance for Better campaign: Video featuring female business leaders discussing workplace gender balance; partnered with female-led retailers and pledged donations to women-focused charities
- Coca-Cola ((Campaign reference)): International Women's Day campaign by The Bold Group: 'When there is a woman, there is magic' message; clean layouts, bold illustrations, female symbol imagery
- Amazon India ((Related initiative)): Women's Day Store (related approach): Showcased women-led businesses through Amazon Saheli initiative, offering special deals and visibility to local entrepreneurs
Campaign ideas7
- Feature women entrepreneurs & CEOs: Create profiles/interviews of female leaders in your industry highlighting their business journeys, challenges, and wins. Share across social & email.
- Women-owned vendor spotlight: Dedicate September promotions to partnering with or promoting women-founded brands; offer co-branded bundles or cross-promotions.
- Internal recognition campaign: Spotlight female employees at all levels—from executives to entry-level—with short videos, testimonials, or written features celebrating their roles & impact.
- Scholarship or mentorship initiative: Announce a new scholarship, grant, or mentorship program for aspiring businesswomen; tie product sales/proceeds to the initiative.
- Networking event or webinar: Host a women-in-business panel, workshop, or virtual networking event; partner with ABWA chapters or local women's business groups.
- Limited-edition product or packaging: Launch a special Sept 22 product or redesign packaging with female founders' stories, empowerment messaging, or a percentage of proceeds donated to women's business nonprofits.
- Wage gap or equity content series: Run educational posts about gender pay equity, workplace advancement, and policy—position your brand as an ally for workplace equality.
Social angles6
- Tomorrow are the leaders today: Meet [Employee name], VP of [Dept]. Celebrating her journey from [background] to driving [impact]. #AmericanBusinessWomensDay #WomenInBusiness
- Founder spotlight: [Woman founder] turned passion into $[X]M business. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: [tip]. Let's amplify the women building America. #Sept22 #BusinessWomen
- Equal pay, equal power: Women own 7.7M US businesses. But the work continues. What does workplace equality mean to you? Share your story. #AmericanBusinessWomensDay
- She built that. In honor of Sept 22, we're celebrating the women who lead our company & industry. Meet [names] + their missions. #WomenLeaders #BusinessWomensDay
- From startup to scale: How these 3 women of color grew their side hustle into a 7-figure business. Their story = your inspiration. #AmericanBusinessWomensDay #EntrepreneurLife
- One day isn't enough. We're pledging year-round support for women in business through [initiative]. Join us Sept 22 + beyond. #WomenInBusiness #EqualOpportunity
Ad copy starters5
“"Nearly 8 million women own US businesses. Here's to the 7.7M we celebrate on Sept 22—and the millions more coming."”
“"American Business Women's Day: Recognizing the entrepreneurs, execs, and innovators shaping America's economy."”
“"This Sept 22, it's not about special treatment. It's about recognition. Meet the women leaders driving our industry forward."”
“"From startup founder to CFO: Female leadership matters. Celebrate American Business Women's Day with us."”
“"7.7M women-owned businesses. 68M working women. One day to say: Your impact is undeniable."”
Tips4
- Align with reality: Avoid performative messaging. If you're celebrating women in business, ensure your actual company culture, pay equity, and hiring practices reflect that commitment. Consumers can tell when it's hollow.
- Go beyond Sept 22: Don't just post once. Run a week-long campaign or extend throughout September. Connect Sept 22 to ongoing programs (scholarships, vendor partnerships, mentorships) that show year-round commitment.
- Tell specific stories: Generic 'we love women' messages fall flat. Feature named employees, founders, customers, or partners with real stories, quotes, and context. Specificity builds trust and emotional connection.
- Link to business/economy angle: Unlike broader 'women's empowerment' themes, American Business Women's Day is specifically about professional achievement & economic impact. Angle messaging around leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and workplace equity.
American Business Women’s Day honors the role women play in shaping the business world in the United States. It began with the founding of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) on September 22, 1949.
A woman named Hilary Bufton Jr. helped start the organization in Kansas City, Missouri. He believed women needed more chances to connect, learn, and grow in their careers. The ABWA brought women together from all types of jobs and industries.
Over time, the idea gained support. More people saw the value of recognizing working women and their contributions to the economy.
In 1983 and 1986, Congress passed resolutions to officially recognize the day. Then, in 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed a formal proclamation. That action made the celebration more visible across the country.
The day doesn’t just honor success—it also reminds people of the work still needed to support equality. From boardrooms to small shops, women continue to move forward, often facing challenges with strength and creativity.
American Business Women’s Day celebrates that spirit. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and cheer for the progress made—and the potential still ahead.
Host a Learning Session
Organize an educational gathering featuring successful businesswomen from your community. Invite them to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. This event can inspire attendees and provide valuable knowledge for aspiring professionals.
Support Women-Owned Businesses
Make a conscious effort to purchase products or services from women entrepreneurs. By doing so, you contribute to equal economic opportunities and empowerment. Share your purchases on social media to encourage others to follow suit.
Share Inspirational Stories
Use your social media platforms to highlight the achievements of notable businesswomen. Post quotes, success stories, or personal anecdotes that celebrate their contributions. This not only honors their work but also raises awareness about the importance of gender equality in business.
Organize a Networking Event
Create opportunities for women professionals to connect, share ideas, and collaborate. Host a networking event, either in-person or virtual, to foster relationships and support systems among businesswomen in your area.
Launch a Mentorship Program
Establish a mentorship initiative within your organization or community. Pair experienced businesswomen with those seeking guidance in their careers. This fosters growth, confidence, and the sharing of valuable knowledge across generations.
Attend Workshops and Seminars
Participate in events that focus on professional development for women. Look for workshops, seminars, or webinars that address topics like leadership, entrepreneurship, and work-life balance. Engaging in these learning opportunities can provide new skills and perspectives.
Recognize Women in Your Workplace
Take time to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of female colleagues. This can be done through awards, appreciation notes, or a simple acknowledgment during meetings. Recognizing their efforts fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment.