Part of what makes eBay so special is the community that fuels it — and on this International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the women who are trailblazers, entrepreneurs — and the fabric of eBay.
Now, these women are sharing their stories about their community, their insights and advice for budding entrepreneurs.
“If You Want to Go Fast, Go Alone — But If You Want to Go Far, Go Together”
Miranda Bennett, owner of Miranda Bennett Studio
Miranda Bennett designs her own eco-friendly apparel line in Austin, Texas. Sustainability is in every stitch of her clothing.
She and her team dye garments in-house, using plant-derived ingredients and divert 100 percent of their textile waste away from landfills. The same way Miranda works to support the health of the planet, she works to support her all-women team.
What Miranda is most proud of is “the fact that I’m able to employ and foster the professional growth of our female team,” she said.
For sister entrepreneurs Kara and Hannah Pendl, collaboration between women is key to achieving sustained success.
“If you want to go fast, go alone — but if you want to go far, go together,” Kara shared. Their teamwork has been integral to their small business of handmade quality ceramics, Hanspun & Karacotta.
Kara and Hannah Pendl, owners of Karacotta and Hanspun
Other advice for aspiring entrepreneurs from our latest Retail Revival Austin cohort:
- “The first thing I would say is just do it,” said entrepreneur Sheila Hawkins-Bucklew.
- Jessica Halich of Fancy Fluff advises: “Get very comfortable making mistakes, as they’re going to happen.”
- And finally: “Be flexible in your approach but unwavering in what your goal is,” shared seller Lauren White.
Beyond the Community: eBay for Charity Auction with Heifer International, Actress Uzo Aduba
Emmy award-winning actress Uzo Aduba
We’re also partnering with Heifer International to launch the “Inspiring Gifts for Inspiring Women” campaign, featuring a special auction with Heifer’s celebrity ambassador, Emmy award-winning actress Uzo Aduba.
From March 5 to March 15, bid on a one-of-a-kind auction for two to visit The Africa Center in New York with Uzo. All proceeds will benefit Heifer International, a global development organization that strives to eradicate global hunger and poverty.
The campaign also features a range of Gifts that Give Back — symbolic gifts that allow shoppers to donate anywhere from $20 to $750, directly to Heifer International. Head to ebay.com/heiferinternational to bid and donate.
eBay is reducing everyday barriers that have traditionally locked small businesses, including women-owned small businesses, into their local market. Learn more about how online marketplaces like eBay can be a game-changer for female entrepreneurs in our Women-Owned Small Online Business Trade report.