Fran Pastore is a trailblazer in the women’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, passionately advocating for economic equity, justice, and inclusion for nearly 30 years. She is a trusted thought leader frequently sought by Congress, the Connecticut General Assembly, and corporate leaders for her insights on issues affecting women.

In 1997, Fran founded the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) with $100,000 in seed funding. Under her leadership, the organization’s budget has grown to nearly $10 million, transforming opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

Beyond WBDC Fran has advised at the highest levels of government and business. She served on the National Women’s Business Council, advising the President, Congress, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. She co-chaired Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont’s Jobs and Economy Policy Committee, served on Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons’ Economic Development Committee, and currently chairs the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority Board of Directors and serves on the Hartford HealthCare Board of Directors. She also serves on the M&T Bank Connecticut Directors’ Advisory Council and the Webster Bank Community Advisory Council.

Fran’s global influence includes working with women entrepreneurs in Rwanda, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, and Turkey, fostering economic independence and self-reliance. She has represented the U.S. at the Women’s Summit and Global Entrepreneurship Conference in Istanbul.

For close to three decades, Fran has shaped legislation advancing women’s rights, testifying before Congress and the Connecticut Legislature on critical issues. Her leadership in the women’s entrepreneurship has significantly advanced opportunities for equity, while also contributing to the economic vitality of Connecticut.