Investing in Women. Inspiring Excellence. Creating Impact.
The NAWBO-SA Foundation is the philanthropic arm of NAWBO San Antonio, raising funds to support women entrepreneurs as they launch, scale, and sustain their businesses. We do this through our signature Women Who Inspire Gala and fundraising appeals throughout the year, as well as through our High School Mentoring Program, which encourages and empowers young women to pursue their passions through a business plan competition.
The NAWBO-SA Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization.
About the Foundation
The NAWBO-SA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization governed by a six-member Board of Trustees, is the philanthropic arm of NAWBO San Antonio. Since our founding in 2009, we have raised funds to support NAWBO-SA’s educational programs, provide training and opportunities for women business owners, and fund transformative initiatives, including our flagship High School Mentorship Program, first launched in 1999 and now sustained through the Foundation’s ongoing support.
Our Impressive Impact
Since our founding, we have:
Supported countless women entrepreneurs through training and resources
Reached hundreds of high school students through mentorship
More than two decades of mentoring future women leaders
Awarded over $480,000+ in scholarships each year
200+ women-owned businesses supported
50+ volunteer mentors annually
25+ years of serving San Antonio
A Bold New Chapter in 2025–26
This year marks a pivotal moment as we strengthen our governance structure and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy. We’re expanding beyond our foundational High School Mentorship Program to support NAWBO-SA’s educational programs more holistically, ensuring sustainable funding for the diverse range of programming that empowers women business owners throughout our community.
Women Business Owner Awards Gala
We’re excited to announce that the prestigious WBOA Gala will now fall under the Foundation’s auspices! This signature NAWBO-SA event celebrates and recognizes outstanding women business owners while raising vital funds for our programming. The gala represents the perfect intersection of celebration, recognition, and philanthropy—core values that drive everything we do.
Our Programs
Women Who Inspire Gala
Each year, NAWBO San Antonio brings together the community to celebrate the remarkable women shaping our city through the Women Who Inspire Gala. This signature evening honors outstanding women business owners, fosters meaningful connections, and supports NAWBO’s mission to empower women entrepreneurs and future leaders.
Established 1999
High School Mentorship Program
Our cornerstone program continues to inspire and support the next generation of women leaders. Through mentorship, business education, and our annual business plan competition, we’re helping high school students develop entrepreneurial skills and confidence while providing scholarship opportunities to support their educational journey.
Expanding Support 2025-26
Educational Programming
Beyond our high school initiatives, we’re laying the groundwork this year to expand our support for the full spectrum of NAWBO-SA’s educational offerings. Through strategic fundraising and strengthened governance, we’re setting attainable goals to ensure that women business owners at every stage of their journey have access to the resources, training, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Way to Make an Impact
Unrestricted Contributions
Designated Contributions
Why Partner with the NAWBO-SA Foundation
Supporting the NAWBO-SA Foundation isn’t just an investment in our community—it’s a partnership that delivers meaningful returns:
Increased Brand Exposure:
Align your organization with a respected, impactful Foundation
Access to NAWBO-SA Members:
Connect with a dynamic network of successful women business owners
Community Impact:
Know that your contribution directly creates opportunities for women and girls to pursue their dreams and aspirations
Tax Benefits:
All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law
Ready to Make an Impact?
Your support fuels mentorship, empowers women entrepreneurs, and creates lasting change in our community.