About Us
The Western Women's Business Center meets the needs of entrepreneurs through one-on-one business coaching, workshops, and access to capital. Our team of experts offer support on a range of topics small businesses need to start and grow.
We are a program of Carolina Small Business Development Fund, a statewide nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with a mission to foster economic development in the state of North Carolina.
SERVING 22
COUNTIES OF
WESTERN NORTH
CAROLINA.
The counties in our service area are: Alexander, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, McDowell, Macon, Madison, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey.
Our Impact
Since 2014, the Western Women’s Business Center has served as a catalyst for the success of entrepreneurs in the mountain region.
We are proud to have supported thousands of businesses in Western North Carolina.
154
Jobs created and retained
31
Businesses started
83
clients accessed
$9M
in capital
3,790
Clients attending training and events
3,941
One-on-one coaching clients
Our team brings a high level of expertise, professionalism, and engagement with entrepreneurs across the region. Our knowledge and passion is reflected in all of the services we offer.
Our Team
Zurilma Anuel*
Director
Zurilma Anuel serves as Director of the Western Women's Business Center. In that role she oversees the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the center, which seeks to promote entrepreneurship in the western region of North Carolina. She was previously Director of CSBDF's Latino Program. Prior her career at CSBDF, Zuri was Latino Program coordinator for Mountain BizWorks and worked for over a decade as a personal banker at Wells Fargo. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Commercial and Financial Administration from the Central University of Caracas and certificates in economic development finance and business credit analysis.
*Hablo Español
CLAUDIA GUTIERREZ*
WWBC Program Associate
Claudia, a Miami native and Florida International University graduate, brings a wealth of experience in case management and advocacy to the Western Women's Business Center and CSBDF. Her journey in public service began at the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, where she honed her leadership and problem-solving skills while supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Beyond her professional achievements, Claudia's dedication to personal growth is evident in her pursuit of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where she has earned a blue belt.
VANESA MURCIA*
Business Solutions Officer
Vanesa Murcia is currently a Business Solutions Officer at CSBDF, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting business development, program delivery, and client services in North Carolina. Her journey with CSBDF began in 2018 as a Latino Program Intern. Prior to her current role, she served as a Marketing Specialist for the Western Women's Business Center, a program of CSBDF. Vanesa holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Minor in Economics from Johnson & Wales University. As a NC native, she is truly passionate about contributing to the economic development of the state and its thriving small business ecosystem.
Alec Sawyer
Marketing & Communications Manager
Alec Sawyer serves as Marketing & Communications Manager for Carolina Small Business Development Fund and its associated programs, including the Western Women's Business Center. Prior to joining CSBDF, he worked as a sports journalist covering N.C. State Athletics and the Carolina Hurricanes for 247 Sports, SB Nation, Saturday Road, and others.
Alec earned his B.A. in Communication Studies, Media from North Carolina State University, where he served on the editorial board of the student newspaper, Technician.
