A thriving community of female entrepreneurs in Pittsburgh has found a champion in Susan Miller, the founder of the Women’s Small Business Association (WSBA). Dedicated to fostering business development and personal growth, WSBA is more than just an organization; it’s a movement designed to support women in taking their businesses to new heights.
Introducing Susan Miller: A Driving Force for Change
Meet Susan Miller, a visionary entrepreneur and community leader based in Pittsburgh, PA. Susan is making waves as the President and Founder of STEER Business Consulting and Coaching, where her dynamic approach to business and deep commitment to local development come to the forefront.
As the founder of the Women’s Small Business Association, Susan leverages her extensive experience to champion the growth of new businesses across
Pittsburgh, nurturing a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurship within our communities.
Her work with WSBA reflects her passion for fostering professional and personal growth among entrepreneurs, particularly women, helping them scale their ventures and connect with essential resources.
The Genesis of WSBA
Susan’s journey to establishing WSBA was driven by her own experiences in the business world. “I started WSBA because I felt there needed to be a place where women could network in a way that suits them and find resources to help them scale their businesses,” Susan explains. As a business development coach and consultant, she saw firsthand the unique challenges women face in the entrepreneurial landscape.
WSBA was born out of a need for a supportive, collaborative environment where women could connect, share knowledge, and grow together. Susan’s vision was to create a community that not only encourages business development but also focuses on personal growth and mentorship.
Supporting Women Through Crisis and Beyond
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for small business owners. WSBA rose to the occasion, moving to virtual platforms to continue supporting its members. “During COVID, we helped business owners pivot and keep their businesses running,” Susan recalls. The association provided crucial support and resources to help entrepreneurs adapt to the new normal, ensuring they could still connect with their clients and sustain their operations.
Post-pandemic, WSBA continues to emphasize the importance of a strong online presence and adaptability. The organization is now relaunching its chapters in various states, including Florida, Texas, and Nevada, while maintaining a strong focus on the Pittsburgh area and surrounding counties.
Comprehensive Services for Members
WSBA’s services extend beyond traditional business advice. The organization offers a holistic approach to entrepreneurship, integrating professional and personal development. “We provide a lot of tools and resources, but the mentorship and peer support are invaluable,” Susan notes. Members have access to educational resources, workshops, and conferences designed to enhance their business acumen and personal growth.
One unique aspect of WSBA is its focus on collaboration over competition. “We’re big on teaching collaboration within the organization because it’s more efficient and effective,” Susan emphasizes. This collaborative spirit is fostered through various events and partnerships with other organizations, creating a robust network of support for female entrepreneurs.
Assisting Survivors and Promoting Social Impact
Beyond her business endeavors, Susan has a profound impact on the community through “She Deserves Better”, a nonprofit organization she founded to support survivors of domestic abuse. This initiative provides survivors with business development opportunities, job placement, life coaching, and one-on-one case management, all aimed at helping them reclaim their independence and achieve financial self-sustainability.
Engaging with the Community
WSBA hosts several events throughout the year to engage with the community and provide learning opportunities for its members. Notable events include the Pittsburgh Entrepreneur Conference, the 12 Deals of Christmas, and the Executive Trailblazer Summit. These events feature top business leaders and provide a platform for recognizing outstanding business owners.
Susan also dedicates her time to the Rotary E-Club, District 7305, as its President, where she uses her leadership to inspire others towards community service and impactful change.
Looking Ahead
As WSBA continues to grow, Susan remains committed to her mission of elevating female entrepreneurs. “We’re always trying to bring awareness to new businesses and diverse ideas coming to Pittsburgh,” she says. The association’s dedication to education, collaboration, and personal development sets it apart as a beacon of support for women in business.
Conclusion
Susan’s vision for the Women’s Small Business Association has created a nurturing environment where female entrepreneurs can thrive. Through WSBA, women in Pittsburgh and beyond are finding the support, resources, and community they need to succeed. As the organization continues to expand and evolve, it remains steadfast in its mission to elevate women and promote a collaborative spirit in the business world.
Susan Miller stands out not only as a serial entrepreneur but also as a catalyst for transformation, offering hope and progress in and beyond the Pittsburgh region.
For more information or to get involved with WSBA, visit their website or connect with them on Facebook.
Upcoming Events
Pittsburgh Entrepreneur Conference: Honoring Extraordinary Women Awards Edition
Nov. 6, 2024
Commonwealth Charter Academy, 162 East Bridge St, Homestead, PA 15120
The conference welcomes entrepreneurs and features business awards for women, alongside a Shark Tank competition for teens with scholarship prizes for the winners.
12 Deals of Christmas Business Event
December 5, 2024
Phoenix Theaters & Event Center, 1025 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, PA 15017
This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to connect with professionals from various industries while enjoying the cozy ambiance of the venue. With 12 incredible deals to be revealed throughout the night, you won’t want to miss out on this merry networking extravaganza.
Pittsburgh Trailblaze Executive Summit
May 1, 2025
Chartiers Room, 370 Commercial St, Bridgeville, PA 15017
This one-day, powerhouse event fuels breakthrough ideas for emerging C-suite leaders ready to chart an unconventional path to the top.
