Local Women-Owned Businesses Shine at “Inspire Her” Business Showcase, hosted by the Brawley Chamber of Commerce
The Brawley Chamber of Commerce recently hosted the “Inspire Her” Business Showcase, a dynamic event celebrating women-owned businesses in the Imperial Valley. The event, held for the first time in El Centro, marks the beginning of a new series of expos planned for the region.
“This is the first time we’re doing it in El Centro, so this is gonna be the first of three expos,” said Karen Montaño, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Brawley Chamber of Commerce. “We’re going to have one in July and the last one in August. For the other two, I think one’s going to be for kids,” she added, noting the unique opportunity for young entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses and market their products.
The “Inspire Her” Business Showcase saw participation from over 72 businesses, ranging from healthcare and education to food and services, representing a diverse spectrum of the local economy. This showcase provided a platform for women entrepreneurs to present their products and services to the community, fostering a spirit of local support and collaboration.
“We had over 72 businesses signed up for this event,” Montaño stated, highlighting the enthusiastic response from local entrepreneurs.
The event drew a crowd of around 500 people, demonstrating the community’s eagerness to support and celebrate local women in business. This new format offers broader participation beyond Chamber members, making the events more inclusive and impactful.
Historically, similar events were held in January at the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds, where attendees paid a $5 entry fee. The event primarily catered to snowbirds and did not allow selling. It was previously a joint effort involving all the chambers in the Valley, according to Brawley Chamber CEO Ramiro Urias.
The current showcase focuses solely on women-owned businesses in the Imperial Valley, but future expos will be open to all local businesses. Montaño emphasized, “This event is for women-owned businesses in the Imperial Valley only. The next three plan to be exclusive to not just women, but any business that would like to register and not have to be a Chamber member.”
Reflecting on the event’s significance, Montaño said, “So, this is our first time doing it after COVID. Of course, you have the support of the city of El Centro and all the other chambers, but this time it’s only the Brawley Chamber.”
Adding to the event’s appeal was a raffle, with each participating business donating an item. Raffle tickets were provided free of charge to attendees, offering them a chance to win a variety of prizes and further engaging the community.
The event promises a continued emphasis on diversity and inclusion, inviting businesses of all kinds to participate and thrive. For a complete list of businesses that participated in the “Inspire Her” Business Showcase, please click here.
Stay tuned for more details on the upcoming expos and how to register your business for future events. The Brawley Chamber of Commerce looks forward to fostering a vibrant and supportive business community in Imperial Valley.