Welcome to the Orlando chapter of the
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) 

Get a seat at the table or build your own table, and make sure to include other women™

NAWBO Orlando is dedicated to fostering the economic empowerment and success of women business owners in Central Florida.
A 5-Star Award Recipient, NAWBO Orlando’s vision is to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power worldwide. Our mission is to strengthen the wealth-creating capacity of NAWBO Orlando’s members and promote economic development; create innovative and effective changes in the business culture; build strategic alliances, coalitions, and affiliations; and transform public policy and influence opinion–makers.

Founded in 1975, NAWBO is the unified voice of more than 12 million women-owned businesses in the United States, representing the fastest-growing segment of the economy.

NAWBO is the only dues-based organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries with chapters across the country. With far-reaching clout and impact, NAWBO is a one-stop resource, propelling women business owners into greater economic, social, and political spheres of power worldwide. We have 60 chapters across the country with more than 5,000 members.

Respected with elected officials in Washington, D.C. and state capitals across the country, recognized in the media as a thought leader on women’s business issues, and joined with corporate partners and other non-profit organizations who share our mission and expand our influence, NAWBO is the country’s premier women’s business organization.

NAWBO’s many milestones and awards over the decades exemplify the rich history of success the organization and its thousands of members have enjoyed.

WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS!®

Mission

• Strengthen the wealth-creating capacity of NAWBO Orlando’s members and promote economic development;

• Create innovative and effective changes in the business culture;

• Build strategic alliances, coalitions and affiliations; and

• Transform public policy and influence opinion–makers.

vision

To propel women business owners into greater economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide.

diversity statement

NAWBO seeks full participation in the organization by all business owners who support our mission to empower women entrepreneurs, regardless of race, religion, age, sexual orientation, national origin or disability. NAWBO’s goal is to effectively represent the full diversity of the women business owner community and to expand access to leadership opportunities across the full spectrum of our membership.

karen kurta

President

Karen Kurta is the founder of Karen K Photo, a professional photography studio specializing in headshots, branding, and architectural photography for businesses and professionals across Greater Orlando. With over 25 years of experience in photography and a background in corporate marketing, Karen combines creative expertise with strategic insight to deliver images that elevate her clients’ brands. She leads with clarity, empathy, and a strong attention to detail—building trust through a seamless process and a commitment to excellence.

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Deb Dietz

President-Elect

Deb Dietz is the Founder and CEO of SMB Value Partners, Inc., a digital media and EdTech company pioneering Agentic AI, VR, and 3D technologies for global skills-based education through SMB Digital Education and Futee.TV. She also connects global markets by producing five international business conferences for female and minority entrepreneurs — VC LatinX, VC EuropeX, VC MEAX, VC APAX, and the BRICS Marketplace Conference — and hosts four television shows on business, health/wellness, character, and faith. Deb has prior board service at NAWBO Chicago and the Northbrook Symphony Orchestra.

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vannessa Weber

Treasurer

Vannessa Haydeé Weber is the founder of Veracity Research Solutions, a family-operated consultancy that helps organizations turn data and compliance requirements into clear, actionable strategies. With 15+ years of experience and a master's degree in Research Psychology and Data Analysis, she translates complex research into real-world impact. She's been honored by the Western Association of Veterans Education Specialists for her contributions to improving systems and services for veterans.

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nICOLE pERPILLANT

Secretary

Nicole is a digital strategist, licensed real estate expert, and business coach with over 20 years of experience in IT, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship. She is the co-founder of Design Theory LLC - an Orlando‑based design agency specializing in websites, digital marketing, and photography services tailored for small businesses and solo‑entrepreneurs since 2008. Nicole uses her expertise in branding, automation, and communication to support organizations in expanding their reach and impact.

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Angie Ruff

Programs Director

Angie Ruff is the COO & Co-Owner of CANI Property Management, where she helps investors create calm, constant cash flow through operational excellence. A 24-year operations and manufacturing leader, she has built multimillion-dollar systems from scratch, turned chaos into clarity for growing companies, and now applies that same discipline to real estate portfolios. Angie is also the Founder of Retail Rebel Revolution and CEO of Rebel MFGX. Known for her direct, high-energy style, she teaches owners how to turn relationships into results with simple, repeatable processes.

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DANA WELLS

Membership Director

Dana Wells is a seasoned entrepreneur, business strategist, and certified executive coach. As co-owner of Levee Liquor—a multi-award-winning retail business in St. Cloud—she’s led her team to become a recognized community hub known for innovation and service. With more than 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship, marketing, and economic development, Dana brings both strategic insight and hands-on leadership to the board. She is also the founder of Sunshine Coaching Group, where she blends positive psychology with real-world business experience to help high-achieving professionals and entrepreneurs flourish. Through her coaching, Dana empowers clients to build resilience, lead with purpose, and thrive in both business and life.

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JENSINA GRAYDON

Communications Director

Jensina Graydon is the Founder and CEO of Purple Ivy Digital Marketing, a strategy-first agency that helps businesses grow through digital marketing. With nearly 30 years of experience in marketing, sales, and business development, she has led initiatives for globally recognized brands, including The Walt Disney Company and Universal Orlando Resort, and small businesses alike, before founding Purple Ivy. Today, Jensina partners with businesses to align marketing with their growth goals through digital marketing. She is passionate about empowering business owners with the strategies they need to grow sustainably, building lasting relationships with their customers and communities, while supporting the continued growth of the Central Florida business community.

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ANNUAL SPONSORS

Community Partners