Signarama® Franchisees Recognized During Women's History Month

    WEST PALM BEACH, FL, March 25, 2019 /24-7PressRelease/ -- "Think equal, build smart, innovate for change" is the theme from the United Nations for 2019 Women's History Month, and Signarama franchisees Dawn Homa and Kathy Evert check off all the boxes. Both women own a thriving business, contribute to the community, and have a forward-thinking approach, honed through training provided by United Franchise Group, and are examples of the many female business owners who are successful Signarama owners.

"We train our franchisees to empower themselves to succeed by leaning on the knowledge of their counter-parts and working diligently to build the Signarama name in their community," said A.J. Titus, Signarama Brand President. "We strongly support Women In Business at Signarama through a variety of ongoing programs and invite all of our women owners to share, learn and grow during special sessions, created just for them, at our annual conferences."

Homa, whose franchise is at 1289 S. 4th Avenue in Brighton CO, says that a successful business requires leadership and mentoring. Feeling that corporate America was no longer a place for outspoken people with creative ideas who were independent, and solutions oriented, Homa made the decision in 2006 to start her own business. "It was challenging in the beginning, but over 13 years, I've had two business expansions and won the "Women in Print" award from Big Picture Magazine," she said. She now sits on the board of the Colorado Sign Association, and says other franchise owners and vendors were extremely supportive in helping to reduce the learning curve and provide resources. "Whether it was about a product, how to fabricate, or questions on permitting, they were always there to help," she said.

Encouraged by her customers, especially the general contractors, Homa applied for Women Business Ownership Certification. "Once the certification is approved, we should be able to benefit from the allotment set aside for a woman-owned business," Homa said.

Homa's advice to women just starting their own business is to remove self-doubt. "I think women jeopardize themselves with negative talk, so it's important not to be afraid to ask questions and learn," she said. "Don't settle for mediocrity, be fearless, and push others to help them grow."

Signarama franchisee Evert agrees with Homa, saying that business mentors are vital as a support system. "There are many opportunities for women in today's business world, and Signarama helps break down barriers when entering the industry."

Evert has owned the Signarama franchise at 1450 NE 69th Place, No. 55, in Ankeny, IA for only three years, but she has been part of entrepreneurship training programs for years, having had several great mentors on her journey to ownership. "I want to give other women the same opportunities that I was given," she said. "As a leader, I never ask others to do something I wouldn't do myself." A self-described "active owner," she's not a micromanager. "It's my intent to provide good jobs with benefits, a fun and educational work environment, and to be a good corporate citizen in the community," she added. "I hope my employees will say this about their experience at Signarama-Ankeny, now and in the future."

In 2018, Signarama recognized Evert's franchise as the "Most Improved" and she sees a great opportunity for women that want to enter the industry. "More women are in decision-making roles, and opportunities exist to work with government agencies and larger corporations," she said. "I believe a women-owned sign company brings a unique perspective to the customer base, and a lot of companies are seeking to work with women that own a business." After 30-plus years in economic development and marketing, a career change was in order, and Evert chose Signarama. "I wanted to buy an existing business, and Signarama had great reviews and a terrific support system, so it was an easy decision," she said. "My goals are to grow the business, grow the team, and have fun every day."

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