Oklahoma City ranks second in top metro areas for female entrepreneurship

Oklahoma City has achieved the second spot on the list of the top 10 metropolitan areas with the most substantial growth in the number of women business owners. This milestone coincides with wrapping up the celebration of National Women's Small Business Month in October, dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating the invaluable contributions of women entrepreneurs.

In this growth trajectory, Oklahoma City stands out, ranking second among the top 10 metropolitan areas with a substantial increase in the presence of female entrepreneurs. This research is the result of economists at Gusto, an HR platform, who have gathered data over several years to analyze the trend. From 2019 to 2023, the percentage of female business owners in Oklahoma City surged from 24% to 30%.

From PR firms to unique gift and coffee cocktail shops, Oklahoma City offers a diverse array of female-owned businesses that exemplify the creativity and dedication of women entrepreneurs. We’ve highlighted a short selection of these remarkable women, each with a unique contribution to the thriving business ecosystem in our community.

Debbie Anglin: Anglin PR 

Anglin PR has been a trailblazer in the world of marketing and public relations in Oklahoma City for more than 25 years. The vision was to provide businesses in Oklahoma with high-quality PR  services that were typically found only in larger cities. Anglin PR is a powerhouse of digital media experts, writers, web creators and graphic designers who understand the intricacies of marketing and messaging.

Anglin shared her perspective on the unique challenges women encounter in entrepreneurship.

"Running a small business is challenging, and statistics show that women face additional obstacles. Women often struggle to secure business loans and early-stage capital compared to their male counterparts, which can hinder growth. The demands of entrepreneurship, particularly the long hours, can be burdensome for mothers, contributing to a 15% higher likelihood of women leaving successful businesses for personal reasons rather than financial difficulties.”

Julie Miller: Tin Lizzies Gift Shop 

Tin Lizzies, a charming gift shop in the heart of West Village, has established a delightful haven for handcrafted items, perfect for gifting, home decor and self-care since 2017. Tin Lizzies stands out for its collaboration with local small businesses, showcasing other Oklahoma-owned boutiques through shop-in-shops and pop-up experiences. 

Julie Miller has shared her entrepreneurial journey, demonstrating perseverance as a wife, mother and small business owner. She has encountered a unique set of challenges each year, including issues related to inventory, supply chain disruptions, relocations, inflation today, and, notably, the challenges posed by pandemic-related closures. Miller emphasizes that each challenge  represented a significant opportunity for adaptation and improvement. The pandemic, “was the impetus for our e-commerce launch which is now our most significant and fastest growing part of our business.”

Furthermore, Miller encourages everyone to prioritize local purchases whenever possible, as it significantly contributes to the development and enrichment of the community.

“I would also say my team is like my family, and nothing is more supportive of me as a business owner than reviews, comments, and encouraging words to and about my team!”

Brittani Hunter: Spiked. A Coffee Concept 

Spiked. has been serving coffee, cocktails, and, most importantly, fostering connections since its inception in 2020, providing valuable opportunities for the northeast OKC community. This establishment goes beyond being just a coffee cocktail shop; it is a dedicated space committed to investing in others. Owner and National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) agent Brittani Hunter said her goal is to make a positive impact.

"I wanted Spiked. to be a hub for the black community, a safe space where people could come and feel safe.” The vision led Hunter to make challenging, yet impactful, decisions as an entrepreneur, such as choosing the east side of 23rd Street over the historically more lucrative west side.

Hunter also emphasized the importance of supporting women-owned businesses.

"We simply need people to show up. Specifically for Spiked., we encourage folks to come in, experience the community space that was a primary goal for me to create."

As the holiday season approaches, Spiked. is preparing to transform into a holiday-themed haven, hosting their ongoing "winter wonderland" event beginning Nov. 15 through Jan. 15. They will be offering a selection of classic holiday drinks, including mocktails, continuing the dedication of a community safe space.

Anglin PR, along with the success of businesses like Tin Lizzies and Spiked., highlights the strength, resilience and determination of female entrepreneurs in Oklahoma City.

The motivations propelling women into entrepreneurship have evolved in response to changing economic circumstances. In 2020, immediate financial concerns resulting from widespread layoffs were the primary motivation for 32% of women embarking on new business ventures. In 2021, 28% of women entrepreneurs were driven by the need to address childcare responsibilities. By 2022, the focus had shifted to achieving a better work-life balance, motivating 64% of women to start their businesses.

As we celebrate this surge in female entrepreneurship wrapping up National Women's Small Business Month, we're reminded of the need to support and empower women in business beyond October, reduce barriers and create an environment where everyone can thrive and continue making substantial contributions to the local and national economy.

This story originally ran on VeloCityOKC.com.