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DAWNSHA’S LOVING CHILDCARE CENTER

Dawn Ward, Owner & Director

Dawn Ward has been a Childcare Provider for 28 years. In 2006, she opened her home as a Family Childcare Home. In 2016, she opened her first Childcare Center; Dawnsha’s Loving Childcare Center, which could accommodate 30 children. Within the first month, they were full and started a waiting list.

In 2021, the search began for another building to renovate in her community, but she realized there were no more available. She wanted to stay in the community because her family needed her help. She spoke with a real estate friend, that encouraged her to build. She went home that night, prayed about it, and went to sleep. Dawn recalls, “In my dream, God showed me standing in front of a brand-new building, and the sign read, Dawnsha’s Loving Childcare Center. I woke up the next day, called my realtor, and told her to find the land. I reached out to some banks and other financial backers. In the end, Institute Capital became one of my financial backers and one of the reasons why I was able to fulfill this dream of helping families in my community with a great big new building that meets all the needs of the children in our care and the families that trust us with their most precious blessings – their children.” She was able to combine Center #1 and Center #2 and still pull from their waiting list as the new building holds 128 children per shift. “Without Institute Capital’s belief in and financial backing of my vision and passion for providing children with a safe, loving, nurturing, and educational environment, it wouldn’t have been possible. My community and I are forever thankful to this phenomenal financial institution for believing small businesses like mine are the backbone of our communities”.

BOOKKEEPING CONSULTING SERVICES, LLC

Yara N. Ortiz, Founder

“Earlier this year, I found out about the Women’s Business Center of Charlotte (WBCC), and since then, my journey as a woman, a business owner, and a leader has shifted in the most powerful way. 

The first event I attended was “Coffee with the Contractors” and let me tell you; it was packed with gems and practical knowledge, especially for small businesses in the construction world. I met so many amazing people and made connections that I still carry with me today. 

Not long after, I had the absolute honor of attending their 2025 BOSS Conference, not just as a participant, but as one of the sponsors. That experience was incredibly special. It was a true privilege to support an organization that’s making such a real impact for small business owners like me. 

Then came another highlight: volunteering for their QuickBooks Series with Tony Proctor. I was able to serve, support, and grow at the same time, sharing my time while sharpening my skills as a financial consultant.

The guidance I’ve received from the WBCC has been a powerful support for my business. Their strategic advice and tools gave me clarity, boosted my confidence, and helped me move with more direction. I didn’t feel like I was figuring things out alone. They’ve also helped me connect with new leads, opportunities, and relationships that have made a real difference. 

I’m deeply grateful that my path crossed with the WBCC and its powerhouse leaders, Rocio Gonzalez and Sheila Obregon. Their passion and commitment are unmatched, and I’m beyond thankful for all they do.”

REMADE WELLNESS, LLC

Daniela Spear, CEO

“The Women’s Business Center of North Carolina has been the biggest blessing to my massage therapy and personal training business this year. They welcomed me into a collaborative cohort at the beginning of the year that set the tone for the rest of my year. I had the opportunity to connect with other female business owners that have become my close friends and an unwavering support system throughout this year. Through the connections made I have been able to pursue a life long dream of creating a unique working space that supports my business and family – a studio space I can call my own and allows me to run my business on my time.

Additionally, I have had the pleasure of working 1:1 with Erica as my business coach which has helped me elevate my in-person massage therapy services. So much so that I met my financial goal for the year in September – a whole quarter early! I have to set a bigger goal for next year!

Events such as the Women’s Business Conference, networking opportunities, goal setting workshops, and public speaking engagements, I have grown more in my business than I had planned for this year. Thank you to WBCNC for providing so much support, connections, and resources to grow as a women and minority owned business!”