Dozens of Williamson County business leaders took part in the Governor’s Small Business Forum, held at Round Rock’s United Heritage Center on Thursday.

Breakout sessions included “Partners in Starting and Growing Your Business,” “Fear and Your Business,” “Small Business Finance,” “Women in Business” and “Small Business Social Media and Marketing.”

One initiative was clear at the forum, outlined in speeches by Texas Governor’s Commission for Women Executive Director LaChristian Taylor and Commissioner Karen Harris: Texas wants to be No. 1 for women-owned businesses.

Several business owners shared their success stories during one breakout session, led by Texas Governor’s Commission for Women Commissioner Starr Corbin.

“A hurdle I had was what I didn’t know,” said Edina Morrison, co-founder and co-owner of Texas Spanish Academy in downtown Round Rock. “What I didn’t know would make me or break me. Now, when things get tough and I get tired, I still have to keep going.”

Morrison, a married mother of two, said her husband’s support has helped overcome the hurdles.

“It was a huge leap of faith,” said Morrison, who is building a second location in Round Rock. “If I doubt myself for a moment, I will keep my business from being successful.”

That sentiment was echoed by another Women in Business panel member, Georgetown State Farm Insurance Agent Stephanie Featherstone.

“Just getting out of my own head and realizing I have what it took and to inspire myself to do it [is what helped me start my business],” Featherstone said.

Anna Eby, owner and attorney of Eby Law Firm in Georgetown and a council member on the Georgetown City Council, and Priscilla Mendoza, owner and operator of the Cedar Park Chick fil-A, also shared advice with the crowd.

All panelists said their chambers of commerce were instrumental in their success as businesswomen.

“Connecting with the Round Rock Chamber has provided many benefits for me,” Morrison said. “Just meeting people and establishing working relationships with other individuals has helped. Making use of the resources they have.”

Asked for their top tips for a successful business, the panelists answered:

·      Know your values

·      Serve others

·      Identify your passion

·      Humble yourself

·      Never be above anything

·      Plan and be prepared to throw it out

·      Seek help from the best professionals when you need it

·      Meet as many people as possible

According to the website www.texaswideopenforbusiness.com, Texas has more than 2.2 million small businesses, with 725,000 owned by women and minorities.