Idaho Women’s Business Center Open House 

On November 5th, the Idaho WBC, located in Nampa, ID,  hosted its inaugural Open House event, celebrating entrepreneurs in a vibrant atmosphere. Tuesday’s Open House offered a chance for entrepreneurs to explore the resources that the IWBC offers while networking with fellow attendees, local business owners, and community representatives.  While there, attendees had the chance to discuss their business goals. They also had the opportunity to sign up for services designed to support their specific needs. Attendees also gained insight into how the IWBC can help them navigate the challenges of starting, expanding, or sustaining their businesses. Whether attendees were seeking to expand their network or learn more about the IWBC, this event was dedicated to showing the supportive framework that the IWBC provides. 

“It was great to hear about the upcoming resources that IWBC will be able to offer for the local community of small business owners,” says Tiffany Williams, owner of Progress LLC.  

Proud to support small businesses, fellow Idahoan resource partners joined, such as the Small Business Development Center, MoFi, Idaho Veterans Chamber of Commerce, Idaho Manufacturing Alliance, and Veterans Entrepreneur Alliance.  Additionally, special guest Tobin Dixon, Deputy District Director of the SBA Boise District Office, was in attendance. Executive leadership from Business Impact NW were also on-hand to meet with and offer support to the entrepreneurs. With it’s community partnerships and dedicated resources, the IWBC is committed to nurturing and empowering small business across all of Idaho.  

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the warm welcome received by the business owners who attended the event and the incredible support from our community resource partners, ” says Susan Perreault, Senior Vice President of Programs, Business Impact NW. “The Idaho WBC is truly a place where entrepreneurs can connect, receive valuable coaching and training, and find the support they need to grow their businesses. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community.”

Multiple Resources for Idaho Businesses 

Elizabeth Van Tassel, owner of Treasured Gems, is among the growing list of clients for the IWBC. Treasured Gems is a brand new, women-owned design, appraisal, and sales company. Happy to be part of the Open House, she says, “I’m so excited to work with IWBC and Business Impact NW. My business needs great assistance, and learning about these resources couldn’t have come at a better time.” Elizabeth is also a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Gemologist Graduate. As such, she offers specific expertise to Idaho shoppers. Elizabeth is also part of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, marking her as an expert in her field. With her background as an author and artist, the IWBC is proud to have her artwork donated  for the event. Elizabeth states,

“I’m excited to work with IWBC and Business Impact NW. My new art and design company will thrive thanks to the mentoring and resources they offer. I especially appreciate the focused classes for taking a hobby to a professional outlook.”  

With increasing opportunities and awareness as the goal for entrepreneurs in Idaho, increasing visibility is especially important amongst business owners. The IWBC doesn’t just talk about what they will do. Paige Wiscombe follows through and offers creative and out-of-the-box solutions. One includes sourcing local artists to highlight their work and businesses in the office. Elizabeth  says, “It’s so special seeing my art featured in a space where people’s business ideas will grow into reality. It’s an honor to create these for this space and support Paige in her effort to highlight local female artists for the IWBC office.” Another local business was highlighted with their donation. The Vinyl Balloon Co, donated a beautiful arch decoration for the event. This truly goes to show that the IWBC is here, in every way, for the women entrepreneurs of Idaho.  

Meet Paige Wiscombe, IWBC Director 

We are proud to introduce Paige Wiscombe as the new IDWBC Director. Paige’s extensive experience in business development, shows her committment to empowering entrepreneurs in Idaho. She is dedicated to creating accessible resources, community connections, and support systems that will help businesses thrive.  

Paige’s Perspective

Q: With your background and experience, what unique perspective do you provide to the Idaho Women’s Business Center, and how will you leverage that to create impactful programs for Idaho business?   

A: My unique perspective comes from experiences, deep connections within the state, and a genuine passion for helping people thrive. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide variety of communities, and this has given me a deep understanding of the different challenges entrepreneurs face when starting and growing their businesses.  

My focus has always been creating experiences that make people feel welcome, comfortable, and truly enjoy themselves. That skill has carried over into my work in business development, where fostering trust is key to successful partnerships. I’ve found that when people feel at ease, they’re more open to learning, collaborating, and growing, which is exactly what I aim to create for the women who come to the IWBC.  

 Whether through one-on-one consulting, workshops, or networking events, my goal is to ensure that the programs we offer are impactful, accessible, and, most importantly, built on trust.  

 Q: How do you envision the IWBC enhancing support for entrepreneurs, particularly in rural communities, through Business Impact NW’s resources and partnerships?   

A: At the IWBC, one of my core missions is ensuring that business owners across Idaho—especially those in rural communities—have the support they need to start and grow successful businesses. Idaho is predominantly rural, so providing accessible services is crucial. That’s why we’ll focus heavily on virtual offerings, ensuring that no matter where someone lives, they can still access one-on-one consulting, business classes, and vital resources.  

 I’m excited to tap into the partnerships I’ve built. Through collaborating with local organizations, we’ll be able to bring meaningful support to for these services. While we’re prioritizing virtual support, I also plan to get out into the communities and connect face-to-face with those who may not have reliable access to technology.  

For me, it’s not just about providing resources—it’s about being present in these journeys through a Zoom call or an in-person event. I know the impact these services can have, and I want everyone in Idaho to feel like the IWBC is within reach and ready to help them succeed.   

Q: What are some of the key challenges you believe Idaho entrepreneurs face, and how do you plan to address those challenges with the IWBC?   

A: I’ve seen firsthand some of the unique challenges that entrepreneurs face, especially in rural communities. One of the biggest struggles is access to information—access to capital, mentorship, or simply the right information to get started. Many don’t have immediate access to business resources or reliable internet, making starting and sustaining a business an uphill battle.  

Encompassing all the Business Impact NW programs, we’ll offer free, easily accessible resources, like one-on-one consulting and business classes. Entrepreneurs will be able to access these virtually, no matter where they’re in the state.    

Another challenge I see is the lack of mentorship or support, which can leave business owners feeling isolated in their entrepreneurial journey. I’m passionate about building a community around the IWBC where people can connect with others who have been in their shoes. Whether through networking events, local partnerships, or connecting them with other business owners, I want to ensure that no one feels like they’re building a business alone.  

 Whether just starting out or scaling your business, the IWBC is here to support your journey and celebrate your success. Through Paige Wiscombe’s leadership, the IWBC is poised to be a center of more than just resources. It is gearing up to be a center of collaboration, support, and community for entrepreneurs across Idaho. Please be on the lookout for upcoming information about the IWBC’s Grand Opening in the spring of 2025!  

A Special Thanks 

We’d like to extend a special thank you to those who donated artwork and items for display.  Thank you to  Treasured Gems ,  Erica Alfaro Designs ,  Embracing Grace , and  Amy Sanford Artworks  for their beautiful art work. Thank you to The Vinyl Balloon Co   for the beautiful balloon decorations.

If you’d like more information on how to connect with the IWBC, please click here.

Interested in attending free business coaching? Click here.