According to a just-released report commissioned by American Express OPEN, there are now more than 8.3 million women-owned businesses in the U.S. Together it is estimated that they generate close to $1.3 trillion in revenue and employ as many as 7.7 million people. Exceeding the growth rates of all but the largest, publicly–traded firms, women-owned businesses on the whole have realized gains in three key areas over the last 15 years: 1) Their sheer numbers are up 54%; 2) The number of people on their payrolls is up 9%; and 3) Their earnings have increased by close to 60%.

Additionally, the Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO) in partnership with American Express OPEN today released its fifth annual ranking of the 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies in North America. Being called the “most diverse ranking ever,” the list is far-reaching both in terms of state and industry representation.

If ever there was a time for women to feel inspired―to feel confident in their own ability to take on the challenge of owning their own business―it’s now. And buying into a home-based or other small business opportunity or franchise can be a great way to get started!

For more information on the New OPEN Study on the Growth of Women-Owned Businesses in 2012, click here.

To learn more about the 50 Fastest Growing Women Owned/Led Companies in the U.S., click here; or you can go to today’s Wall Street Journal piece on the subject by clicking on WSJ coverage now! And click the following link for business ideas and opportunities for women!