From Michigan to the World: Impact on International Business and Women's Empowerment
Tonya McNeal-Weary is a renowned entrepreneur and advocate for women’s economic empowerment. With a multi-award-winning career, she has established herself as a global leader and mentor to women entrepreneurs. Tonya’s passion and commitment to supporting women’s growth and advancement in business are demonstrated through her work as the Founder and Executive Director of Michigan Association for Female Entrepreneurs (MAFE).
Tonya’s mission is to create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Michigan that provides women with equal access to markets, financial inclusion, and economic opportunities, free from any barriers. This goal is not only noble, but also necessary given the gender disparities that persist in the entrepreneurial space. According to the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), women-owned businesses in the U.S. are still significantly underrepresented in terms of revenue and employment. Despite being the fastest-growing segment of the small business community, women-owned businesses generate only 4.2% of overall business revenues and employ only 8% of the workforce.