In the vibrant community of Dubuque, Iowa, a groundbreaking initiative is redefining support for women navigating the unique challenges of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Spearheaded by Mackenzie Benter, Riley Andrews, and Katrina Canevello, the “Raising Dubuque Co.” group has emerged as a beacon of solidarity, transforming the landscape for mom entrepreneurs by fostering a powerful network of shared experiences and mutual assistance within the local business community.
Motherhood, while profoundly rewarding, can often bring a sense of isolation, a feeling akin to being on one’s own island. This inherent solitude is frequently compounded when women venture into the demanding world of entrepreneurship, creating a double burden that can further distance them from vital support systems. Recognizing this critical need, the founders of Raising Dubuque Co. sought to bridge this gap, providing a much-needed platform for connection and collective empowerment.
The genesis of this impactful movement began with a simple yet profound idea: a Facebook group launched in June. This digital hub quickly became a central resource, allowing mom-owned businesses in Dubuque to post upcoming events, share invaluable insights, and cultivate a supportive community around their ventures. The initial success of the online platform highlighted a clear demand for more structured interaction among its members.
Mackenzie Benter, owner of Goose & Giggles Play Cafe, embodies the spirit of these mom entrepreneurs herself. Having relocated from Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, she channeled her passion for cafes into establishing her own business in May. Inspired by her parents’ 15 years in the cafe industry and the prevalence of play cafes in her former hometown, Benter created a Montessori-inspired indoor play space where children can explore while caregivers enjoy cafe amenities, offering a unique service to Dubuque local businesses.
As Benter diligently worked to establish Goose & Giggles, her proactive outreach to other women in business led her to connect with Andrews and Canevello. Their shared experiences and understanding of the specific challenges faced by entrepreneurial mothers quickly forged a bond. Together, they articulated a clear vision: to create a dedicated support network where mom business owners could uplift and assist one another, transforming individual struggles into collective strengths.
The organic growth of the Raising Dubuque page soon prompted requests for in-person networking opportunities, signaling a desire for deeper connections beyond the digital realm. This burgeoning interest spurred Benter, Canevello, and Andrews to consider a more formalized structure, leading to discussions about establishing the group as a nonprofit organization. This strategic pivot aims to solidify their commitment to providing sustained and comprehensive assistance to their community members.
Looking ahead, Raising Dubuque Co. plans to host quarterly networking events, rotating locations among different mom-owned businesses to ensure variety and highlight diverse enterprises. Additionally, the group is keen on organizing pop-up events, such as a fashion show slated for September at Goose & Giggles. These initiatives are designed to foster tangible interactions and create dynamic platforms for collaboration and growth, further cementing their status as a vital small business support system.
Ultimately, Riley Andrews envisions Raising Dubuque Co. as more than just a networking group; it is an evolving opportunity for women to meet, exchange innovative ideas, and forge a robust community of mothers. Through this dedicated platform, Dubuque women entrepreneurs are empowered to build strong relationships, overcome common obstacles, and collectively thrive, illustrating the profound impact of organized community support on local economic development and individual well-being.
