FAQ

Do I have to be an established business to be a member?
To be considered for either our Founder or General membership, you will have to operate your business legally in the state of Texas. WES:CC reserves the right to verify credentials of all applicants prior to acceptance into the organization. Associate members may join if they do not yet have their business set up, but are interested in entrepreneurship and getting guidance on the process.

Are online-only businesses accepted?
Absolutely. Online and at-home businesses are encouraged to apply as long as they are operating legally in the state of Texas.

Do I have to be the sole owner of my company?
No. To participate as a member of the WES:CC, you are welcome to join if you are either a sole or part-owner of your company.

What type of businesses are eligible for membership?
The WES:CC was built to serve women-owned, founded, and operated, independent small businesses. At this time, we are not in a position to serve those within network-marketing and tiered-level companies, based on the structures already in place within those established organizations. We are here to provide the best possible resources and outcomes for our local members, and our expertise does not cover large, corporately-owned businesses.

Can I join if I am a stay-at-home-mom with a business idea?
Of course! If you have an idea for a business but don't know where to start, our Associate Membership is the perfect way to get you on your way. 

Are student memberships offered?
Our Associate Membership was created for those who are in the beginning stages of their business or are interested in entrepreneurship from the ground up. Students are encouraged to apply at this level to be paired up with a business mentor and have intern opportunities within the WES:CC or other established member businesses.

Will I be able to sell my products at the WES:CC Markets?
All members with a valid Texas sale tax ID are eligible to participate in our bi-annual markets.  Members at all levels will be charged a nominal fee for booth space. 

Do I have to make a certain dollar amount in sales to qualify for a membership?
No. This organization is open to those in all stages of their careers. Existing businesses must operate legally in the state of Texas, but there is no minimum revenue requirement to join.

Do I have to be a retail business to be accepted?
No. We welcome independently-founded and owned small businesses in every industry to apply. 

How long does my membership last?
We provide annual memberships that renew on your established anniversary date.

Are memberships refundable?
No, refunds are not available on memberships at any level, at this time.

Are there scholarship opportunities for memberships?
Yes! We believe that everyone deserves a seat at the table. There is an option to be considered for a one-year scholarship on the membership application. Scholarships are available to any NEW General Members and are limited.

Am I able to attend the monthly socials before my application has been accepted?
Absolutely! Our monthly socials are open to anyone interested in joining our organization. You do not need to be a member to attend, and you are welcome to bring a guest or another interested business owner as well. We do ask that you RSVP ahead of the event so we have an approximate headcount for the venue.

When are membership applications reviewed and accepted?
We review and accept applications monthly.

Are there opportunities for businesses to partner with the WES:CC?
Yes! We are always looking for locations for our monthly meetings, socials, markets, and planning sessions. If you are a venue or restaurant interested in having us, please contact us at admin@wescc.org. We are also creating a Partner Membership option for organizations looking to work more closely with WES:CC and our member base.