Export-Import Bank Announces New Council on Advancing Women in Business
WASHINGTON – The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) today announced it is creating a new Council on Advancing Women in Business as a subcommittee of the agency’s Advisory Committee. The Council will provide recommendations on ways EXIM can reach more women in business and better consider equity goals set in the agency’s strategy.
“As we conclude Women’s History Month and continue to honor the trailblazing women and girls who have driven our nation forward, I am excited to announce this important Council that will help support the next generation of trailblazing women in business,” said EXIM Chair Reta Jo Lewis. “Women own roughly one of every five U.S. companies, and 5.4 million firms are now majority-owned by women of color. EXIM must do all we can to meet our Congressionally-mandated responsibilities to support these firms and build a better, more equitable America.”
The Biden Administration continues to prioritize equity and inclusion by making it an integral part of executive initiatives. Through the creation of this Council, EXIM is taking steps to lay new foundations for greater outreach, collaboration, and partnerships. Last year, EXIM’s Office of Small Business authorized $361 million for minority and women-owned businesses, a ten percent increase from 2020.
Membership of the EXIM Council on Advancing Women in Business is anticipated to include representatives from businesses, the financial sector, trade associations, academia, and other private and public sector organizations. More information on how to apply for the Council will be announced later this spring.
ABOUT EXIM:
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is the nation’s official export credit agency with the mission of supporting American jobs by facilitating U.S. exports. To advance American competitiveness and assist U.S. businesses as they compete for global sales, EXIM offers financing including export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, loan guarantees, and direct loans. As an independent federal agency, EXIM contributes to U.S. economic growth by supporting tens of thousands of jobs in exporting businesses and their supply chains across the United States. Since 1992, EXIM has generated more than $9 billion for the U.S. Treasury for repayment of U.S. debt. Learn more at www.exim.gov.