Frequently Asked Questions


What is the Appalachian Highlands Women’s Business Center (AppH-WBC)?

Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) are a part of a national network of entrepreneurship centers throughout the United States and its territories, which are designed to assist women in starting and growing small businesses.

Why do we need it?

From 2019 to 2023, women-owned businesses’ growth rate outpaced the rate of men’s 94.3% for number of firms, 252.8% for employment, and 82% for revenue. During the pandemic, women-owned businesses added 1.4 million jobs and $579.6 billion in revenue to the economy. WBC’s seek to “level the playing field” for women entrepreneurs, who still face unique obstacles in the business world.

Where is the AppH-WBC located?

The AppH-WBC is located in Kingsport, TN.

How many Women’s Business Centers exist?

According to a 2023 White House press release, there were 160 SBA WBCs offering one-on-one counseling, training, networking, workshops, technical assistance, and mentoring to women entrepreneurs on numerous business development topics, including business startup, financial management, marketing, and procurement. SBA’s aim is to have at least one center in every state. At this time, the AppH-WBC is the only SBA WBC in Tennessee.

What is the service area of the AppH-WBC?

AppH-WBC serves ten counties in Northeast Tennessee: Carter, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi, and Washington.

What is the vision for the AppH-WBC?

To be the go-to organization in Northeast Tennessee for women-owned small businesses and female entrepreneurs who want to start or grow their business.

What is the mission of the AppH-WBC?

The mission of the AppH-WBC is to serve women-owned small business concerns and women entrepreneurs by:

  1. Providing business training and counseling

  2. Facilitating securing federal contracts and access to credit and capital

  3. Connecting clients to the full array of SBA resources