The business world is built on connections - and these days, word of mouth is not enough. Today's successful businesses actively seek new ways to develop opportunities and capitalize on resources.

The Minority And Woman Owned Business Directory will be a key resource to help Greater Boston minority and woman owned businesses expand their networks, raise awareness about their enterprises, and make worthwhile connections with other businesses.

In 2004, Boston played host to the Democratic National Convention, an event that raised the region's global profile and presented an unprecedented opportunity for Greater Boston businesses. In connection with its preparations for the Convention, the local host committee, Boston 2004, invited minority and woman owned businesses to participate in its vendor directory for the Convention. Once the Convention had concluded, Boston 2004 asked the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce to build on its initial efforts and launch a permanent directory of minority and woman-owned businesses in the region.

The Chamber welcomed the opportunity to carry forward Greater Boston's tradition of revolution and leadership in positive social change. It also recognized that, with 25 percent of the region's businesses owned by women and 16 percent owned by minorities, promotion of these businesses would help to maximize economic growth and job creation in the Greater Boston area. Thus in 2005, the Chamber launched the MWO Business Directory, a searchable resource of large companies and organizations seeking to connect and do business with certified minority and woman owned businesses throughout Greater Boston.

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