Building a Network: How Carlie Gollner's Group is Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in the Tri-Cities

In the heart of the Tri-Cities entrepreneurial scene, Carlie Gollner saw a gap—one that left many women business owners feeling isolated and unsupported. Determined to change that, she founded the *Vancouver Women in Business* Facebook group, a carefully curated community of 300 female entrepreneurs.

Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre – Local Journalism Initiative

“I wanted to create a space where women could feel safe sharing their ideas, challenges, and successes without judgment,” Carlie explains. Her vision was simple: to build a platform that fostered real collaboration, where women could learn from one another and grow their businesses in a supportive environment. Limiting the group to 300 members was an intentional decision. “It’s about quality over quantity,” Carlie says.

“By keeping it small, we ensure that everyone has a voice and that relationships stay personal.” The group’s intimate size allows for a level of engagement and trust that larger groups often struggle to maintain. To keep the community vibrant, Carlie looks for members who are not only passionate about their businesses but also committed to supporting others and becoming friends.

Everyone is welcome

Carlie understands the challenges women entrepreneurs face—juggling business with family life, overcoming gender biases, and often facing limited resources. “That’s where the group comes in,” she says. “It’s a space where women can find encouragement and practical advice.”

She also encourages collaboration through events and regular check-ins, ensuring that members aren’t just passive observers but active participants. Partnering with Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre has amplified the group’s reach. Genevieve’s social media expertise and deep connections in the Tri-Cities have helped create greater visibility for the group and its members.

Together, they continue to encourage members to support local businesses and strengthen the local entrepreneurial community. Looking forward, Carlie’s advice for other women is simple: “Focus on building connections before focusing on sales. Start with a clear purpose, create a safe space, and prioritize relationships.”

It’s a strategy that has worked for her, fostering genuine trust and collaboration, and one that continues to inspire women across the Tri-Cities.Tri Cities Community TV is a group of volunteers in the region who are looking to support community video media and independant community news stories and sources.