Women-owned businesses continue to be one of the fastest-growing parts of the economy, both across the country and here in Nebraska. In fact, women own more than 43% of businesses in Nebraska—higher than the national average, and make up about a third of the state’s small business community. Those numbers tell an important story, but they only scratch the surface of the impact women entrepreneurs are making across industries.
From technology and finance to retail, healthcare, and creative services, women business owners are helping shape how modern companies operate. Many bring a leadership style that blends innovation with strong relationship-building, creating workplaces and services that focus just as much on people as they do results. That balance has helped many women-led businesses stand out in a competitive marketplace.
Of course, the path hasn’t always been easy. Access to capital, smaller professional networks, and barriers to scaling businesses are challenges many women entrepreneurs still face. Yet time and again, Nebraska’s women business owners continue to find ways to grow, adapt, and move their companies forward.
Another defining quality of many women-led businesses is their connection to the community. Many owners actively mentor other entrepreneurs, volunteer their time, and support local organizations. They are not only building successful companies, but also strengthening the communities where they live and work.
That momentum shows no sign of slowing. Nearly half of all new businesses started in 2024 were women-owned. For Nebraska, that means more innovation, more leadership, and more stories of resilience and success continuing to emerge.
Since taking over as owner and executive director in January 2020, Megan Leikam has played a pivotal role in Associates in Counseling & Treatment’s (ACTNebraska.org) growth and community impact.
With licenses in alcohol and drug counseling, disordered gambling counseling and a certification as a domestic violence counselor, Megan leads by example—conducting evaluations, facilitating counseling sessions and advocating for mental health and substance use support in a compassionate and confidential manner.
ACT offers a comprehensive range of services, including evaluations (substance use, mental health, gambling use, and co-occurring disorders), intensive outpatient treatment (morning and evening options), outpatient counseling, anger management, domestic violence classes and alcohol/DUI education courses.
The organization accepts various insurances and provides flexible scheduling, including virtual and in-person sessions. A sliding scale fee is available for underinsured or uninsured individuals.
“Modern life presents many stresses that can affect people at any stage. Our therapists are here to support individuals and families with mental health, gambling, domestic violence, and substance abuse challenges,” said Megan.
To learn more about Associates In Counseling & Treatment, go online to ACTNebraska.org or contact (402) 261-6667/information@actnebraska.org.
For Dawn Robinson, working with children has never been just a career. It has been a calling. For more than 37 years, she has dedicated her life to helping young learners grow in confidence, curiosity, and character.
Her journey began in the public school system, where she taught for seven years after earning her Bachelor’s degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education. Driven to deepen her impact and better serve young learners, she later completed her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
Long before opening a center, Dawn welcomed families into her own home, operating an in-home childcare and preschool program for five years. That experience ignited a bigger dream: to create a nurturing learning environment that would positively shape children, support working families, and strengthen the community. In 2005, with determination, faith, and a clear vision, she opened World of Knowledge Child Development Center (WorldofKnowledgene.com) and Preschool — a place designed to feel like an extension of family while delivering high-quality early education.
As the program grew and community needs increased, Dawn expanded her impact by opening a second location, World of Knowledge Early Learning Center, in 2021. Building a successful program required courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in her mission. In 2025, the organization proudly celebrated 20 years of serving children and families.
Today, Dawn continues to lead with heart and purpose, creating environments where children thrive, teachers grow, and families feel supported, proving that passion and perseverance create lasting impact. More information on World of Knowledge can be found at WorldofKnowledgene.com.
Capital Care Staffing (CapitalCareStaffing.com) is a Lincoln-based, women-owned healthcare staffing agency dedicated to connecting Nebraska’s healthcare facilities with compassionate, skilled nursing professionals. Guided by a mission to elevate care through dependable talent, Capital Care provides flexible staffing support for long-term care communities, assisted living facilities, hospitals, clinics, schools, and more — 24/7, day or night.
At the heart of the company is President & CEO Samantha McAtee, whose nearly two decades of healthcare experience inform a leadership style grounded in integrity, professionalism, and genuine care. Under her direction, Capital Care has built a reputation for matching facilities with Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Medication Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, and other qualified staff who are trained to deliver compassionate, team-oriented care that fits each community’s unique needs.
What truly sets Capital Care apart is its dedication to both clients and caregivers. Facilities rely on the agency’s thorough screening and personally tailored placements, while nurses and aides value competitive pay, scheduling flexibility, and ongoing support.
As a trusted partner in healthcare staffing, Capital Care strengthens communities by ensuring quality care through responsible staffing solutions — proving that great care begins with the right people.
For more information, visit CapitalCareStaffing.com.
Marci Hanshaw made her dream a reality in June of 2008 when the sign lit up for Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar (CarmelasBistroandWineBar.com) in the quiet little area of Pioneers Woods Shopping Center, located on 70th and Pioneers.
“I was a very young entrepreneur back then at the age of 28,” said Marci. “In a sense, Carmela’s and I grew up together.”
Marci’s vision was to bring an elegant bistro with extraordinary food and wine to Lincoln. She was excited and nervous to join the ranks of all the other amazing restaurants in town, which were predominately led by men at the time.
“I was aware that restaurant industry was a strongly male-dominated space,” said Marci. “I was prepared to roll up my sleeves and do what I needed to do in order to be successful. Carmela’s was well received by Lincolnites, and we are still going strong after 16 years!”
Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features chef inspired American cuisine that includes hand-cuts steaks, pastas, and seafood dishes. They believe that food and wine hold the power to forge lasting connections, setting the table for a life well lived.
Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features date nights on Monday and Tuesday evenings, which includes a three-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for only $65! There are Wine Down Wednesdays and First Thursday Wine Tasting events.
Another highlight is the Chef Created Brunch Menu every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They also have Sinatra Sundays, featuring a three course dinner plus a bottle of wine while listening to the sounds of the rat pack and Ol’ Blue Eyes himself.
To view the full menu and hours, visit CarmelasBistroandWineBar.com or call (402) 489-0005.
At Copper & Wax Co. (CopperWaxCo.com), vintage finds meet clean fragrance in a collection designed to slow the pace of modern life. What began as a spark during the pandemic quickly blossomed into a full-time, woman-powered business rooted in intention and craft. They hand-pour candles and other products using locally harvested beeswax blended with clean-burning, phthalate-free ingredients for home and body. The alchemy symbol for Copper in their logo represents nature, creativity, love, and balance—values that guide everything they create.
Their aesthetic leans into Old-World charm: simple, beautiful pieces that feel storied and soulful. In addition to their recycle & refill programs they also love to collaborate with other businesses to create their own signature scents, crafting fragrances that reflect their story and identity.
Mindy Horn is the owner and maker at Copper & Wax Co. – with a background as a massage therapist and beekeeper, she approaches fragrance as ritual—an invitation to pause & breathe. From raw, natural materials to nostalgic branding, every detail is thoughtfully curated to bring warmth and calm into your space.
Stop into their storefront located in the heart of University Place – Lincoln’s only Creative Arts District to smell in person or visit them online at CopperWaxCo.com – check out their fragrance library for inspiration!
GordenLaw (GordenLaw.com) in Lincoln was founded in 2011 by Attorney Vanessa J. Gorden, a first-generation lawyer whose mission is helping families move forward through some of life’s most challenging transitions.
Focusing exclusively on family law, GordenLaw represents clients in matters involving divorce, custody, support, paternity, and modifications.
The firm is known for its strategic approach to complex family law matters and its commitment to providing highly personalized, premium legal services.
“We recognize that every client’s situation is unique,” Gorden explains. “Our role is not only to address the legal issues involved, but to understand the bigger picture — the long-term goals our clients have for their families, finances, etc. We want to be proactive, not reactive, in building our clients’ foundation for the future.”
One of the ways GordenLaw is different is the transparent flat-fee pricing structure. By offering levels of representation tailored to different scenarios, the firm allows clients to choose the level of support that best fits their needs and goals. Having clarity on pricing allows the firm to provide clear guidance, proactive strategy, and focused attention.
“Family law cases are pivotal moments,” Gorden says. “It is an honor to help our clients move forward with strength and confidence.”
To learn more about GordenLaw, visit gordenlaw.com, call (402) 817-1450, or email inquiry@gordenlaw.com.
Makaylee Gayed is the founder and Creative Director of Lincoln Fashion (Lincoln-Fashion.com/GetInvolved), a platform dedicated to celebrating and elevating creative talent in the Midwest. As a designer herself, Makaylee recognized the need for more opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs, and fashion enthusiasts to connect, collaborate, and showcase their work right here in Nebraska.
In 2025, she launched Lincoln Fashion Weekend, a multi-day event that brings together designers, models, photographers, stylists, and local businesses for a series of runway shows, educational panels, and networking opportunities. What began as a vision to support emerging creatives has quickly grown into a vibrant community that highlights the innovation and diversity of the region’s fashion scene.
Lincoln Fashion is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where creatives can share their talents, build meaningful connections, and grow their brands. Through events, partnerships, and community initiatives, the organization continues to champion Midwest creativity while proving that fashion and artistic innovation thrive far beyond traditional fashion capitals. More information can be found at Lincoln-Fashion.com/GetInvolved.
For many individuals and families, financial planning can feel over-whelming. For more than four decades, Marcie Young has helped people turn uncertainty into clarity.
Marcie is a fiduciary Investment Adviser Representative and owner of Marcia Young & Associates, LLC. (Primerica.com/MarcieYoung) Over the years, she has built a reputation for thoughtful guidance, practical strategies, and long-term client relationships.
Her approach begins with something simple but powerful—listening.
“I believe people make their best financial decisions when they truly understand their options,” Marcie says. “Education always comes first.”
Many clients find Marcie through a referral from a friend, family member, or colleague who has worked with her for years. In fact, her practice has grown almost entirely through word-of-mouth recommendations.
Her dedication to clients has also earned consistent recognition. With Lincoln’s Choice Awards, Marcia Young & Associates has been named among the Top 3 Financial Advisors for many years and is again a finalist for 2026.
Raised with the values of Nebraska farm life—hard work, practicality, and caring for others—Marcie brings those principles into every client relationship. She serves clients throughout Nebraska and across the United States.
While retirement planning is a specialty, Marcie and her team work with individuals at every stage of life—from young professionals building their financial foundation to those preparing for retirement or navigating major life transitions.
Marcie provides access to a broad range of top-notch financial solutions, including managed investments, IRAs, mutual funds, annuities, college savings plans, and individual 401(k) plans.
Additional services include term life insurance, identity theft protection, and prepaid legal services
Many people who reach out to Marcie say they simply want a place to start or a second opinion on their current financial strategy. An initial conversation is designed to be relaxed and educational, giving individuals the opportunity to ask questions and explore options before deciding on next steps. To learn more or schedule a conversation, visit: Primerica.com/MarcieYoung.
McGill Law (McGillLawyers.com) is a women founded, owned, and led law firm dedicated to thoughtful advocacy and client centered legal guidance. The firm is known for combining strategic legal representation with a compassionate approach to family law, recognizing that every client’s situation is deeply personal and deserves careful attention.
In Lincoln, attorneys Taylor Matthias and Amber Schlote serve clients across Lancaster County and surrounding communities. This spring, the firm will expand into a larger Lincoln office, reflecting its continued investment in supporting individuals and families throughout the region. An additional office in Omaha allows the firm to serve clients across eastern Nebraska.
The practice focuses on family law matters including divorce, child custody, parenting plans, and estate planning. Whenever possible, the attorneys prioritize collaborative problem solving and thoughtful negotiation, helping many families reach agreements outside of court while remaining prepared to advocate strongly when litigation is necessary.
The firm represents individuals, couples, and families from a wide range of backgrounds and is committed to providing respectful and inclusive legal guidance for every client.
Learn more at McGillLawyers.com or call (402) 548-5418.
On Point Insurance Agency (InsuranceOnPoint.com) was open for business in June, 2026. Started by Krista Peeks Dittman with her administrative assistant and partner agent, Rachael Wells, their mission is to help individuals, families and seniors find on-point health insurance solutions.
The agency’s name was inspired by Krista’s love of quilting. She feels like her work as an agent is very similar to quilting: it’s all about how you put the pieces together that makes the pattern come alive. Together with their third agent, Todd Kraft, the On Point team primarily serves the Lincoln and greater Nebraska communities but is also licensed in another dozen states.
They look forward to working with their community and putting the right “pieces” of health insurance in place for their family, friends and neighbors in Lincoln and across Nebraska. More information can be found at InsuranceOnPoint.com or call (402) 625-6578.
Ashley Tobias has called Lincoln home for over a decade and is the owner of T Square Movers (TSquareMovers.com), an award-winning, family-owned moving company that hit its 10-year anniversary in 2026. She also co-owns Save Nebraska Local, a growing business community dedicated to helping small businesses collaborate, scale, and thrive together.
At T Square Movers, Ashley has created far more than a moving company. The business operates as a sober workplace that actively supports recovery, mental clarity, and personal growth. While not every team member comes from an addiction background, the company culture emphasizes discipline, accountability, and clear-minded service. Many employees credit this environment with helping them stabilize their lives, develop leadership skills, and pursue long-term goals.
Central to this culture is the T2 Leadership Academy, a structured internal program Ashley designed to develop movers into leaders. The academy focuses on servant leadership, emotional regulation, professionalism under pressure, communication, and personal responsibility — skills that extend far beyond the job site. Ashley’s leadership philosophy is rooted in service first. She believes strong leaders exist to elevate others, not control them. This mindset has shaped a team culture known for reliability, mutual respect, and a “no-complaining, solutions-focused” approach to challenges.
Beyond T Square Movers, Ashley plays a major role in strengthening the local business ecosystem. Through Save Nebraska Local, she hosts recurring masterminds and networking events designed to be practical, collaborative, and non-sales-driven. These gatherings bring together entrepreneurs from diverse industries to troubleshoot real problems, share strategies, and build authentic relationships — not just exchange business cards.
Known for her high energy, direct communication style, and commitment to community growth, Ashley continues to build organizations that prioritize people, leadership, and long-term impact.
To learn more about T Square Movers, visit TSquareMovers.com or call (402) 645-4067. To learn more about Save Nebraska Local and the SaveLocal App, visit SaveNebraskaLocal.io or text (402) 780-8813.
Stories like these reflect a broader trend happening across Nebraska’s business community. Women entrepreneurs continue to step forward with ideas, determination, and a willingness to build something meaningful not just for themselves, but for the people around them. Many of these businesses grow from a desire to solve a problem, serve a community need, or create a better path for future generations.
Along the way, those same entrepreneurs often become mentors, collaborators, and supporters of other local businesses. Their companies become part of the larger fabric of the community, contributing to economic growth while also fostering relationships and opportunities for others.
While every journey looks different, the common thread is resilience and a strong sense of purpose. As more women continue launching and leading businesses across Nebraska, their impact can be seen not only in the companies they build, but also in the communities that grow stronger alongside them.
By supporting women-owned businesses, you help strengthen economic growth, empower communities, and foster purpose-driven progress. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive future. If you would like to be featured in our next women-owned business spotlight, call Paige at (402) 466-3330 or email Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com.