At this time of national crisis and renewed appreciation of our freedom and democracy, I am humbled by the acts of heroism we’ve witnessed these last two months. I know that each of us has been affected in many and varied ways by the events of September 11. To all of the members and supporters of the Women’s Business Council – Southwest, I want to reiterate our appreciation of your involvement, contributions, and friendship. As we face an uncertain future and economic hardships, there is certainly one thing of which I am certain: small businesses and indeed women-owned businesses are the backbone of our society and represent the basic values that we hold dear in America. Just as our large corporate members are experiencing financial losses and massive layoffs, our WBEs are realizing major losses as well. In fact, WBEs are in the toughest position because they do not have a large infrastructure and cash reserve that can help them weather difficult times.
It is definitely a time to remember how much we need each other. And isn’t that the basic premise of all that the Women’s Business Council – Southwest is about? Sustaining corporate members need the innovation, quick response, and economical benefits that WBEs provide, and WBEs need an equal opportunity to compete and make a positive difference in the profits and growth of major corporations. I urge our corporate members to look for additional ways to include WBEs in your purchasing and outsourcing initiatives. At a time when saving money is of utmost importance, it just makes good business sense to use WBEs.
There is good news to focus on as well. Congratulations to the Lockheed Martin Team on winning the Joint Strike Fighter Competition! This major award underscores the exceptional performance and response of Lockheed Martin and means tremendous opportunity for North Texas and the nation. WBCS will be proactive in assisting Lockheed, Northrop Grumman, and others in the utilization of WBEs through each phase of the JSF project.
The enduring good news from my vantage point is that we have the expertise, the commitment and the passion-to-succeed represented in the individual WBE and corporate members of this Council, and we will work together to not only survive, but thrive.
