10 Professional Development Platforms for Creative Women

From fostering community to propelling careers, the following platforms provide invaluable opportunities for connection, inspiration, and empowerment amongst creative women. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just launching your startup, one of these ten professional development platforms could be your gateway to expanding your horizons, amplify your voice, and thriving in your creative career.

10 Networking Platforms for Creative Women Who Want to Grow Their Businesses

DesignDash Creative Council

Founded by Melissa Grove and Laura Umansky, the DesignDash Creative Council is an invitation-only membership program designed to support and propel design business owners, Creative Directors, and select design professionals toward exceptional growth and strategic refinement in their careers.

By joining the Council, members engage in a personalized business and career audit, structured strategic planning, and continuous community interaction—all aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and boosting overall confidence in business decisions.

Get Involved: DesignDash Creative Council

eWomenNetwork

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eWomenNetwork hosts over 2,000 online and in-person events annually—creating what they call “Accelerated Networking” opportunities for women in business. The organization’s mission is to help women achieve, succeed, and prosper through a supportive community that offers mentorship, educational resources, and business connections. With a focus on fostering collaboration and growth, eWomenNetwork provides its members with the tools and connections needed to thrive in the business world.

Get Involved: eWomenNetwork

Ellevate Network

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Ellevate Network is a nationwide community for professional women that offers a supportive platform for career growth and development. The network hosts many virtual and in-person events that facilitate networking, mentorship, and skill-building. Ellevate empowers women at all stages of their careers by providing the resources and connections necessary to succeed and advance in their professional lives.

Get Involved: Ellevate Network

Lean In Circles

Lean In Circles are small, peer-supported groups that provide women with a space to share experiences, build skills, and support each other both professionally and personally. These circles emphasize peer mentorship and inspiration. Together, they create a network of women who empower each other to achieve their goals. Lean In Circles are part of a global movement inspired by Sheryl Sandberg’s book Lean In, which promoted gender equality and personal empowerment.

Get Involved: Lean In Circle Directory

Ladies Get Paid

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Ladies Get Paid is yet another community dedicated to empowering women to know their worth and push through glass ceilings. Through a wealth of resources, engaging events, and a supportive network, Ladies Get Paid provides women with the tools and connections needed to advocate for themselves as entrepreneurs and employees.

The platform offers workshops, webinars, and networking opportunities designed to help women negotiate for higher salaries, navigate their career paths, and build confidence in the workplace. By fostering a collaborative and encouraging environment, Ladies Get Paid works to close the gender pay gap and elevate women’s professional achievements in all industries.

Get Involved: Ladies Get Paid

Creative Women’s Circle

Creative Women’s Circle is an Australian-based community that supports, connects, and promotes women working in creative industries. It provides a platform for creative women to share their experiences, collaborate on projects, and gain visibility in their fields.

The community hosts events, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to foster professional growth and creative exchange. Through a wide variety of initiatives, Creative Women’s Circle empowers women in the arts, design, and other creative sectors by providing them with the resources and connections they need to thrive.

Get Involved: Creative Women’s Circle

SheSays

SheSays is an organization dedicated to helping women in the creative industries by offering mentorship, networking events, and professional development opportunities. By connecting them with experienced mentors and providing platforms for skill enhancement and career growth, SheSays hopes to empower women in the arts and design fields. The organization is committed to addressing the gender gap our fields while promoting diversity and inclusion.

Get Involved: SheSays

Women Who Draw

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Women Who Draw is an open directory that showcases the work of female illustrators, artists, and cartoonists. In doing so, the platform hopes to increase their visibility and opportunities in the industry. The platform highlights the diversity and talent of women artists while making it easier for clients, publishers, and art directors to find and hire female creatives.

This directory is a valuable resource for both artists and their patrons. It helps patrons discover new talent while supporting female artists as they begin and expand their careers.

Get Involved: Women Who Draw

Dreamers & Doers

Dreamers & Doers is a collective of entrepreneurial, creative women who want to support each other through collaboration, shared resources, and networking opportunities. The community fosters meaningful connections among members through exclusive events, mentorship programs, and a wealth of educational resources.

Get Involved: Dreamers & Doers

The Entreprenista League

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The Entreprenista League is a membership community that helps female founders connect with each other, learn important skills, and grow their businesses. Members enjoy access to live virtual and in-person events, educational videos, and exclusive member perks. The community provides support through expert-led sessions, networking opportunities, and valuable resources aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs.

Get Involved: The Entreprenista League

Final Thoughts on Finding Connection and Support as a Creative Entrepreneur

From the DesignDash Creative Council’s strategic guidance to Women Who Draw’s inclusive directory, the platforms outlined above can help you achieve greater visibility, inspiration, and success in your career. Remember that the best networking platforms don’t just promise professional growth. They also offer personal connections, mentorship, and a shared sense of purpose.

We hope you will embrace these opportunities to learn, collaborate, and thrive as you grow your business. As women in the arts, our creativity, resilience, and unique perspectives are our greatest assets. With the right support, we can all achieve extraordinary things!