Inspiring Stories of Long Island Women Growing Their Businesses

Long Island is seeing a wave of women transform creative passions into thriving ventures. From home kitchens to online boutiques, the rise of women-led entrepreneurship continues to reshape the local economy—powered by technology, collaboration, and community-driven support.

At the annual Women’s Expo hosted by the Middle Country Public Library, female founders gather to share their journeys, showcase their products, and connect with mentors and peers.

Angela Carillo of Bethpage, founder of Alegna Soap, is one of them. What began as a weekend hobby—crafting soaps from natural oils and butters—has evolved into a full-scale business with clients ranging from hotels to boutique shops. Working with other soapmakers, Carillo coordinates bulk orders and shipping to streamline costs. “The female camaraderie is very uplifting,” she said, crediting the expo for creating a space where women genuinely root for one another.

Opportunities in Women-Owned Businesses

The Women’s Expo celebrated its 25th anniversary this fall, marking a milestone in Long Island’s growing network of female entrepreneurs. From just 20 vendors in 2000 to nearly 80 this year, the event reflects both expansion and resilience.

Instagram | jkjewelrystudio | The 25th anniversary of the Women’s Expo celebrates the momentum of women-owned ventures across Long Island.

Supportive Institutions

The event is organized by the Middle Country Library Foundation and its Miller Business Center, with backing from groups like the Small Business Development Center at Stony Brook University. This year’s proceeds—around $22,000—will go toward funding new business development programs.

Educational Programs

The Miller Business Center offers workshops on everything from marketing and digital skills to business planning. Many women who once came in seeking startup advice now return for guidance on scaling their companies or expanding online.

Elizabeth Malafi, coordinator of the center, notes a significant shift: “More women are starting businesses for growth—not just out of necessity.”

Hofstra University’s Shu Yang agrees, observing a rise in confidence and ambition among new entrepreneurs.

New York State now counts over 764,000 women-owned businesses—up from roughly 505,000 in 2002. Initiatives such as the Minority and Women-Owned Business Growth Accelerator offer grants up to $200,000 for mentorship and training, fueling further progress.

Technology and Digital Platforms

Technology has leveled the playing field for small business owners. Social media and e-commerce tools allow entrepreneurs to connect with global audiences without the overhead of a storefront.

Kayla Barthelme of Cutchogue, founder of Soul Creations, sells herbal remedies and teas entirely online. Similarly, Linda Johnson of Stony Brook—who runs the artisan chocolate brand Chocology—credits the Miller Business Center for helping her refine her branding, licensing, and digital marketing strategy. Today, her business hosts tasting workshops and corporate events that blend creativity with community.

Persistent Challenges

Instagram | angoracraftedofficial | Beyond sales, the expo thrives as a hub for collaboration, mentorship, and mutual growth.

Despite progress, women still face familiar obstacles—funding gaps, time pressures, and the challenge of balancing family with entrepreneurship.

Terry Morris, founder of The Lather Cloth, built her business while raising two daughters, often working late nights around school routines. Access to capital remains limited: women-only startups received just 2.3% of global venture funding in 2024. Many, including Morris and Barthelme, rely on personal savings to keep their businesses afloat.

Networking is another barrier. While many rely on community ties to get started, mentorship programs help fill the gaps, teaching practical skills in logistics, manufacturing, and scaling.

Long-Term Impact and Community Support

For many, the Women’s Expo has become more than a marketplace—it’s a launchpad for growth. Lori Ledek of Ridge, a repeat participant, has turned her hand-painted glass business from a home-based idea into an online and event-driven brand. With support from the Miller Business Center, she’s strengthened her web presence and business know-how.

Events like this prove that success doesn’t happen in isolation. They create ecosystems where education, collaboration, and creativity intersect—showing that with the right support, small ideas can evolve into lasting enterprises.