Sharon S Gordon 
Lisa Banks, the esteemed Executive Director of The ECDI Women’s Business Centers of Ohio (WBCs) Central Ohio location, is a beacon of empowerment and advocacy for women entrepreneurs across the state. As a program of nonprofit community lender, ECDI, the Women’s Business Centers of Ohio are dedicated to breaking down barriers and providing resources, training, and access to capital for women in business.
With resource centers strategically located throughout Ohio, including Central Ohio, Northern Ohio, Greater Cincinnati, and Central Appalachia, the WBCs serve entrepreneurs across diverse communities. As the only Women’s Business Centers in the state, they offer invaluable support and guidance to women striving to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Under Lisa’s exceptional leadership, the WBCs provide comprehensive business planning, training, and one-on-one assistance to ECDI loan clients, empowering them to navigate the complexities of business ownership with confidence and resilience. Through partnerships with nearly 100 U.S. Small Business Administration-funded Women’s Business Centers nationwide, they open doors to statewide and national networks, offering a vibrant community of small businesses across Ohio and beyond.
Moreover, as a program of ECDI, members of the Women’s Business Centers of Ohio gain access to funding and additional incubation services, further enhancing their growth and success in the competitive business landscape.
Lisa Banks’ remarkable dedication and impact extend beyond her role as Executive Director, as evidenced by her recent recognition as one of Columbus Business First’s 2023 Women of Influence honorees. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and fostering economic opportunity exemplifies the mission and values of the Women’s Business Centers of Ohio, making her a true trailblazer and role model for aspiring business leaders statewide.
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