March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements of women throughout history and recognize their invaluable contributions to society. Women have long played a crucial role in shaping America’s economy, culture, and progress. Today, they are a driving force in economic growth, innovation, and leadership. Women make up 47% of the U.S. workforce, and closing gender gaps could add $2.1 trillion to the economy (McKinsey & Company). Women-owned businesses generate $1.8 trillion annually, growing by 114% over the past two decades (American Express). Additionally, women-founded startups deliver twice the revenue per dollar invested compared to those founded by men (Boston Consulting Group). With women earning more college degrees and holding key leadership roles, companies with greater gender diversity are 21% more likely to outperform competitors (McKinsey & Company). Investing in women’s economic participation isn’t just about equality – it’s a major driver of growth and innovation.
At AvantGarde – a woman-owned company led by majority owner Rebecca Contreras, with a female-led management team and workforce – we celebrate the achievements of women past and present and invest in the next generation of empowered leaders.
The Power of Women in Business and the Economy
Women-owned businesses continue to reshape the American economy. As of 2024, women own over 14 million businesses in the U.S., accounting for nearly 40% of all firms. These businesses employ approximately 12.2 million workers and generate $2.7 trillion in revenue annually (U.S. Small Business Administration). The rise of female entrepreneurship highlights the growing economic influence of women, as more women-led companies emerge in industries once dominated by men.
Women’s financial impact extends beyond business ownership. Women influence up to 85% of consumer purchasing decisions and drive an estimated $10 trillion in annual consumer spending (Forbes). They play a key role in household finances, healthcare, real estate, and education, making them a powerful force in shaping markets and economic trends. Businesses increasingly tailor products and services to better meet the needs of female consumers, driving further innovation and economic expansion.
Trailblazing Women Who Paved the Way
Throughout history, countless women have broken barriers and reshaped industries, paving the way for future generations.
In Business: Rosalind Brewer is a powerhouse in corporate leadership, becoming one of the few Black women to serve as CEO of a Fortune 500 company. She has held top executive roles at Walgreens Boots Alliance, Starbucks, and Sam’s Club, championing diversity, innovation, and business growth.
In STEM: Dr. Fei-Fei Li is a trailblazer in artificial intelligence, pioneering advancements in computer vision and AI ethics. A professor at Stanford University and former Chief Scientist of AI at Google Cloud, her work has shaped modern AI applications and continues to influence the industry.
In History and Advocacy: Pioneering women’s rights advocates like Abigail Adams, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Susan B. Anthony fought for equality long before women secured the right to vote. Sojourner Truth, an escaped enslaved woman, became a powerful voice for both abolition and women’s rights. Their activism laid the groundwork for the rights and opportunities women enjoy today.
In the Arts: Frida Kahlo, the groundbreaking Mexican painter, used her art to explore themes of identity, pain, and resilience, challenging societal norms. In the contemporary art world, Marina Abramović has revolutionized performance art, pushing boundaries on endurance, vulnerability, and human connection. Their influence continues to shape the artistic landscape today.
We honor these women and countless others who have challenged norms, redefined possibilities, and created new opportunities for future generations. Thanks to their efforts, a thriving management consulting firm like AvantGarde – where women outnumber men 3-to-1 – no longer raises eyebrows but stands as a testament to progress.
Women of the 21st Century: Breaking Barriers
Women continue to shatter glass ceilings across industries and around the world. Since 2001, 52 women have won the Nobel Prize, more than the total awarded to women in the previous 100 years. The number of women CEOs in the Fortune 500 has reached an all-time high at 52, representing 10.4% of the list. Women now make up 28% of the U.S. Congress, holding significant influence over national policy (Pew Research Center). Countries across the globe have elected their first female leaders in the past two decades, proving that women’s leadership is not just necessary – it’s transformative.
Paying It Forward: Supporting the Next Generation
While not all of us will become CEOs, Nobel laureates, or political leaders, every woman can help do their part in their own community and sphere of influence to pave the way for the next generation - young women. Mentorship, advocacy, and leading by example all contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future. Women can guide younger generations in their careers, advocate for policies that promote gender equality, and set an example through resilience and determination.
At AvantGarde, we are committed to paying it forward. Through initiatives like the Girls of Legacy mentoring and scholarship program – founded by AG’s CEO Rebecca Contreras – we invest in the future of young women from underserved communities. This program has already supported 16 young women from inner-city schools, providing them with over $100,000 in scholarships, mentoring, and opportunities to succeed. We invite you to learn more about the impact of the Girls of Legacy program and how we continue to uplift and support the next generation of female leaders. Every dollar given to Girls of Legacy is doubled with a match by AG’s CEO.
Women’s contributions to business, society, and culture have created tangible impacts in our everyday lives. By celebrating past accomplishments and continuing to push for progress, we ensure that future generations of women can achieve their full potential. As we honor Women’s History Month, let us all – women and men alike – commit to fostering a world where women’s voices are heard, valued, and empowered to lead.
Â
To learn more about AvantGarde visit www.avantgarde4usa.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook. To learn more about Girls of Legacy and to participate in the match giving visit: https://www.launchpadthecenter.org/donate