International Women’s Day at the NYSE: A Celebration of Resilience
On March 9, 2026, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) honored International Women's Day by inviting two prominent advocates, Paris Hilton and Gloria Steinem, to ring the Closing Bell. This celebration not only reflects the strides made regarding women's empowerment but also highlights the continued struggles faced by women-owned businesses in the wake of disasters.
Paris Hilton’s Commitment to Female Entrepreneurs
As the Founder and CEO of 11:11 Media, Paris Hilton is spearheading an initiative called Back in Business to support female entrepreneurs rebuild after the devastating Los Angeles wildfires of January 2025. The initiative aims to provide grants to women-owned small businesses that were significantly impacted, emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in women-led enterprises.
Hilton has passionately been involved in this cause following her painful experiences, which spurred her to think bigger. As she shared, “real recovery doesn't happen in a news cycle. It happens day by day, brick by brick, heart to heart.” She believes that women-owned businesses are the heart of their communities and that lifting them up is critical for overall community recovery.
A National Movement Gaining Traction
Inspired by the successful deployment of over $1 million in grants to 50 women-owned businesses in Los Angeles after the 2025 wildfires, the Back in Business Recovery Fund has set a goal of raising at least $1 million nationally. Hilton has committed $350,000 and partnered with GoFundMe, which is contributing an additional $100,000 to support this mission. The initiative not only provides financial grants but also critical resources such as mentorship and technical assistance—services many women entrepreneurs desperately need.
According to research, women entrepreneurs, especially those in minority groups, receive disproportionately less funding than their male counterparts. Hilton underscores this issue, emphasizing that when women are adequately funded, they outperform their peers. This belief fuels her drive to create platforms that facilitate access to these resources.
Spotlighting Unique Stories of Recovery
The Back in Business initiative extends beyond financial aid; it features a compelling YouTube series showcasing the journeys of several women entrepreneurs who have benefited from the grants. From a floral design company to a children’s educational center, these stories represent not only recovery but also hope and resilience in times of adversity. One notable story is of Renata Ortega, who lost her business to the wildfires but rebuilt with the help of the grant, stating, “It directly went into getting us back into business, but actually back and better than ever.”
A Broader Vision for Women in Business
The efforts of Hilton and Steinem serve as a powerful reminder of the vital role women play in business and society. Gloria Steinem’s activism underscores the necessity for systemic change that supports women entrepreneurs. This partnership at the NYSE invites everyone to reflect not just on the achievements of women but also on the challenges they continue to face, reinforcing the call for equitable resources.
Moreover, events like the NYSE Closing Bell ceremony exemplify how corporate platforms can engage and advocate for social issues. This visibility can significantly impact public perception and support for women-owned businesses. As Steinem put it during the ceremony, “When women thrive, communities thrive.”
Future Implications and Closing Thoughts
The launch of the Back in Business initiative is not just a response to immediate needs but a transformative movement towards sustained support for women-owned businesses across the United States, especially following disasters. It shines a light on the crucial need for community investment, particularly in female entrepreneurs who play a significant role in economic resilience.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s imperative to carry forward this momentum throughout the year. Initiatives like this remind us of the ongoing commitment required to ensure women not only survive but thrive in business.
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