Women-Owned, Vermont Strong: The Impact of Female Entrepreneurs

Vermont has long been a place of creativity, resilience, and community spirit—values that are deeply reflected in the many women-owned businesses that call our state home. From innovative artisans to passionate food makers, women entrepreneurs are making a significant impact on Vermont’s economy and culture. With March being Women’s History Month, there’s no better time to celebrate the women-led businesses that bring unique, locally crafted products to our communities.

At Vermont’s Own, we take pride in showcasing and supporting women-owned businesses. As we relaunch our blog, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible female entrepreneurs behind the products we carry, including The Tipsy Pickle, Simply B, Hi From Studio, Vermont Vinegars, and Grace and Miss Mouse Soaps. We’ll also explore the broader impact of women-owned businesses in Vermont, highlighting key statistics and the role they play in shaping our state’s economy.

Join us as we celebrate these inspiring businesses, learn more about their stories, and discover how you can support them—both online at www.vtsown.com and in-store at 64 Main Street, Middlebury, VT.

Celebrating Women's History Month

Every March, we celebrate Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the incredible achievements of women throughout history. What began as a single day of recognition in 1909 has since grown into a national month-long observance, honoring the contributions of women in every field—from science and politics to art and entrepreneurship.

For Vermont, this celebration holds special meaning. Our state has long been home to trailblazing women who have shaped our economy and culture, from early female farmers and artisans to today’s innovative entrepreneurs. Women-owned businesses in Vermont not only contribute to local communities but also serve as a testament to the strength, creativity, and resilience of women in business.

Supporting women-owned businesses is one of the most powerful ways to honor Women’s History Month. By choosing to shop from women-led brands, we help sustain their hard work, fuel economic growth, and inspire future generations of female entrepreneurs.

This month, Vermont’s Own is proud to highlight the incredible women behind some of the local brands we carry. Their stories and businesses are a reflection of Vermont’s strong tradition of craftsmanship, sustainability, and community-driven values.

Overview of Women-Owned Businesses in Vermont

Vermont has long been a state that fosters innovation, independence, and entrepreneurship. Women business owners play a crucial role in this economic landscape, contributing to local communities while driving growth across various industries. From small artisan shops to larger enterprises, women-owned businesses in Vermont are a powerful force, creating jobs, strengthening communities, and enriching the state's economy.

Statistics and Economic Impact

Women entrepreneurs are making a significant mark on Vermont’s economy. Currently, women own 23,417 businesses across the state, employing 36,326 people and generating approximately $2.2 billion in annual revenue (women.vermont.gov). Women-owned businesses account for 9% of gross revenues and 12% of employment among all privately held firms in Vermont, demonstrating the important role these businesses play in shaping the state’s economic future.

How Vermont Compares to the Nation

Vermont is a standout state when it comes to women entrepreneurs. 7.25% of working-age women in Vermont own a business as their primary occupation—nearly double the national average of 3.9% (en.wikipedia.org). In fact, Vermont ranks 5th in the U.S. for the number of women starting businesses, proving that our state is an inspiring place for female founders to launch and grow their ventures (vtta.org).

Challenges and Opportunities

While Vermont women are leading the way in business ownership, challenges remain. Women-owned businesses tend to be fewer in number, smaller in size, and generate lower revenues than their male-owned counterparts (women.vermont.gov). However, this also presents an opportunity—expanding access to capital, mentorship, and business resources could significantly accelerate the growth and success of women entrepreneurs in Vermont. By supporting these businesses and advocating for more opportunities, we can help ensure that Vermont’s women-led enterprises continue to thrive and expand.

Vermont has always been a place where small businesses flourish, and women entrepreneurs are a vital part of that success. By celebrating and supporting these businesses, we’re not just uplifting individual owners—we’re strengthening our entire community.

Spotlight on Featured Women-Owned Businesses

Vermont is home to an incredible community of women entrepreneurs who bring passion, creativity, and dedication to their craft. From artisanal pickles and handcrafted soaps to feel-good stationery and flavorful vinegars, these businesses not only create exceptional products but also contribute to Vermont’s thriving local economy. Meet the inspiring women behind The Tipsy Pickle, Hi From Studio, Vermont Vinegars, and Grace and Miss Mouse Soaps—each of whom has built something truly special.

The Tipsy Pickle (Essex, VT)

Forget everything you thought you knew about pickles—The Tipsy Pickle is here to change the game! Handcrafted in small batches, these artisanal pickle chunks are bold, flavorful, and infused with Vermont-made spirits and brews. Whether adding a kick to your sandwich or serving as a satisfying snack, these pickles are a must-try.

Angela, the founder of The Tipsy Pickle, was inspired by childhood memories of canning fresh produce with her grandparents. A lightbulb moment came one day when she decided to add Switchback beer to a batch of pickles—her friends and family were hooked! What started as a home kitchen experiment turned into an award-winning business, earning four Good Food Awards and three Good Food Finalist titles since 2019.

Angela believes being a woman-owned business is about more than just making great food—it’s about sourcing locally, fostering community, and building strong collaborations with Vermont makers. From Maple Bourbon Whiskey Pickles to Sip of Sunshine IPA Pickles, every jar is a crunchy, flavorful celebration of Vermont.

Hi From Studio (Williston, VT)

Looking for the perfect card to brighten someone's day? Hi From Studio creates fun, colorful, and pun-filled greeting cards designed to spread joy. What started in 2021 with just nine designs has now expanded to stores across the country.

Founder Kirsten is passionate about feel-good art and stationery, leaning into humor and lightheartedness to celebrate everyday moments. As a woman entrepreneur, she is proud to be part of the growing “Sheconomy”—a movement that sees women not only as consumers but as key drivers of economic growth. From the viral impact of Barbie, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift to the rising success of women-led businesses, Kirsten is thrilled to be part of this cultural shift.

Vermont Vinegars (Monkton, VT)

From the lush orchards of Monkton comes Vermont Vinegars, a business born from family tradition and a love for Vermont’s local harvests. Founder Debb, a former financial services professional, embraced vinegar-making as a way to create something uniquely Vermont. Using high-quality cider and wine, slow fermentation, and over two years of barrel aging, Vermont Vinegars produces some of the most richly flavored, small-batch vinegars available.

For Debb, running a woman-owned business is about breaking barriers—after years of navigating male-dominated industries, she finds joy in crafting a product that is both artisanal and deeply connected to Vermont’s agricultural roots. Whether used as a salad dressing or a secret ingredient in your favorite dish, Vermont Vinegars brings a taste of Vermont to every meal.

Grace and Miss Mouse Soaps (Bellows Falls, VT)

If you love a luxurious, soapy lather, you’ll adore Grace and Miss Mouse Soaps. Handmade using the cold-process method, these premium, all-natural soaps are designed to nourish the skin while providing long-lasting, delicious scents.

Judy, the founder, was inspired by a weekend spa trip with her daughter—a simple bar of handcrafted soap sparked a passion that led her to spend years perfecting her formula. Today, Grace and Miss Mouse Soaps is a beloved Vermont business, known for its sustainable ingredients, hand-cut bars, and incredible scents.

Perfect as a gift for baby showers, weddings, or holiday stocking stuffers, these soaps offer a little touch of everyday luxury. Thoughtfully crafted and always kind to the skin, Grace and Miss Mouse Soaps are a Vermont-made treat you don’t want to miss.

Final Thoughts

These incredible women-owned businesses are just a glimpse into the creative and entrepreneurial spirit that makes Vermont so special. Whether you’re craving a zesty pickle, looking for the perfect greeting card, elevating your culinary game with handcrafted vinegar, or indulging in a beautifully scented soap, these women are crafting something truly exceptional.

Support these businesses and many more Vermont small businesses online at www.vtsown.com or visit us in-store at 64 Main Street, Middlebury, VT to shop local and celebrate Vermont’s talented women entrepreneurs!