Our History
In 1979 in Howard County, Maryland, there were a number of well-educated moms who were interested in returning to the workforce after spending several years staying home caring for their young children. As the women started talking to one another—discussing skills, needs, availability—they realized they were estranged from the job market. Thus began the early days of women’s business networking in Howard County.
“There were so many talented, dynamic women involved in so many things in the County,” said Liz Bobo, a founding member. “This was a way for them to get together and share information.”
The group, known simply then as The Women’s Network, quickly grew to 100 members. As more women rejoined the business world in the early 1990s, membership started declining so a board of directors was organized in 1992 to address new challenges for the business network. In 1993, the Board oversaw the Network’s incorporation as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the advancement of women in all sectors of the business community. To reflect this new focus, the name changed to the Business Women’s Network of Howard County (BWN).
By 1999, BWN was running like a professional business with unwavering support for its community. It added a scholarship program in 2001 and later expanded it to help women succeed. BWN has also flexed with the changing needs of the community. From launching the website and connecting over social media to introducing virtual programming, BWN remains committed to keeping business networking accessible and ensuring members remain engaged, educated and energized.