There are so many unsung female heroes in the world of business. Everyday there are women fighting, working, and pushing to achieve success for their business. Starting a business is such a personal endeavor. Businesses become like family members. You nurture them, care for them a day in and day out and hopefully watch them grow. All of these women have done just that and done it well. They are each proud of their accomplishments and rightfully so. According to the U.S. Census, “The number of Women-Owned Employer Firms Increased 0.6% from 2017 to 2018.” That number is continuing to trend up! Seeing more and more women enter into business ownership is something Strictly Business wholeheartedly wants to continue to foster!
Women business owners exhibit unparalleled bravery as they navigate a landscape often marred by gender biases and systemic challenges. In the face of societal expectations and institutional barriers, these entrepreneurs courageously carve their paths, challenging stereotypes and reshaping industries. Their bravery extends into all facets of their business ownership, as they juggle multifaceted roles, balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities. In the pursuit of their dreams, they defy odds, championing innovation and fostering inclusive workplaces. Through resilience and determination, women entrepreneurs not only build thriving businesses but also inspire future generations to embrace their own potential, leaving an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape.
Alpha Queen Collective (alphaqueencollective.com), founded by Karissa Adkins, is revolutionizing the landscape for female entrepreneurs. This women-owned global coaching and mastermind company combines high-touch mentorship, proven systems and an unmatched community of ambitious women who refuse to settle. AQC specializes in helping female coaches and consultants build and scale million-dollar businesses through their complete ecosystem of support. Their framework addresses five core pillars: sales and speaker training, creative marketing and messaging, high ticket offer creation, mindset transformation and leadership and business development.
Through done for you templates, VIP and Group coaching sessions, and powerful community connection, AQC empowers women to build sustainable, scalable businesses without sacrificing their lives in the process.
Localee (localeeomaha.com) is a locally-focused business that curates thoughtful gift boxes featuring handcrafted products from makers across Nebraska and Iowa. We believe in supporting small businesses and fostering community connections, offering our customers a way to celebrate local craftsmanship and share meaningful gifts. Whether you’re looking to thank a client, celebrate a special occasion, or share a taste of the Midwest, our custom personalized gift boxes are filled with high-quality, unique items that tell the story of our region. Each box is carefully assembled with items from local artisans, food producers, and makers, highlighting the diverse talent and craftsmanship that make Nebraska and Iowa special. At Localee, we strive to create a more connected and sustainable local economy, one gift at a time.
Indigo Cottage Crafts (indigocottagecrafts.com), founded by Army veteran Brandy Prettyman, is a charming arts and crafts studio nestled in Papillion. It reflects her passion for artistry, dedication to service and commitment to uplifting others. With its cozy atmosphere and welcoming ambiance, stepping into Indigo Cottage Crafts feels like entering a realm of endless possibilities and inspiration.
Brandy’s journey from serving her country to pursuing her artistic dreams exemplifies perseverance and courage. Her vision for the studio is not only to provide a space for artistic expression but also to foster a supportive environment for the community to thrive.
From DIY painting and crafts to the renowned Spatter Zone, the studio allows artists of all types to shine. A diverse array of locally sourced artwork adorns the walls and they host various workshops and events, from painting classes to poetry open mics.
Indigo Cottage Crafts isn’t just a business—it’s a labor of love, a testament to the power of art to transform lives. As Brandy continues to chart her path as an entrepreneur, Indigo Cottage Crafts will remain a beacon of inspiration and creativity in the Papillion community and beyond.
Sherri Tafoya founded of Custom Blinds & Design (customblindsdesign.com) 25 years ago, in 2000. Sherri was on a quest for something that truly fueled her passion while supporting her family, and voila—a creation from scratch. Blinds have consistently been the pathway, but the ultimate aim has always been to honor and glorify God. Shining their light with their team and their clients is always front and center. Sherri empowers the Custom Blinds & Design team to make someone’s day joyful. What started as a part-time business from home has morphed into two showrooms (Lincoln and Omaha), and 19 team members in place to make your day.
Sherri treats her team like a family! They’re all in this together and are united by a shared goal: to make sure you get custom treatments, made simple. Selecting the right window treatments is exciting, and they’re here to guide you through your options so you have window treatments you love—while having fun in the process. Custom Blinds & Design will be celebrating 26 years in business in 2026 and they can’t wait to spend many more years giving you the custom treatment you deserve! To learn more visit customblindsdesign.com or stop by their Omaha showroom at 1105 South 180th.
Established in 2015 by Sandra Miller, CEO, Key Home Care has emerged as a beacon of compassionate non-medical home care services. Miller’s background in social work, coupled with years spent in local skilled nursing facilities as their Admissions and Social Work Director, gives her a unique insight into the needs of seniors seeking home-based care. She is proud to have built this company from the ground up and is not a part of a franchised organization.
Key Home Care operates with the mission of enabling individuals of all ages and abilities to maintain their residences comfortably. Catering to people at various life stages, Sandra emphasizes the dedication of their exceptional staff, providing compassionate care seven days a week within the community.
Key Home Care offers a range of services, including personal care, memory care support, hospice support, light housekeeping, meal preparation, pet care, grocery shopping, transportation and companionship. What sets Key Home Care apart is the way they treat their staff. “We fully believe if we treat our staff with compassion, they in turn will care for our clients with the same level of compassion.”
Looking ahead, Sandra Miller expresses pride in the services rendered over the past nine years and anticipates a promising future. Key Home Care is poised for expansion into Lincoln and beyond, showcasing a steadfast commitment to enhancing the quality of care provided. For more details, visit keyhomecare.us or call us on our new number (402) KEY-HOME