The Importance of Networking and Mentorship | Paths to Leadership

Ann Marie Wallace is a purpose-driven leader and a champion for women entrepreneurs, serving as the State Director of the Women's Business Center of Utah (WBCUtah). Under her more than 13 years of leadership, she has transformed WBCUtah from a local resource into the state’s largest and most influential technical assistance center for women-owned businesses.

Ann Marie is widely recognized for her strategic vision and significant impact. She has quadrupled staff, tripled the budget, and scaled the center's reach to serve over 1,500 women across all 29 counties of Utah. She also spearheaded the creation of the state's first public Women-Owned Business Directory, launched multiple training programs, and developed an Online Academy with courses taught by Utah's top women entrepreneurs.

A former WBCUtah client herself, Ann Marie brings a unique blend of empathy and lived experience to her role. She is passionate about building partnerships and fostering an inclusive economy where women have the confidence and support to not only succeed but thrive. Her influence extends to key community roles, where she serves as Vice Chair of the Salt Lake City Economic Development Loan Funding Committee and on the board of directors for Mountain West Small Business Finance. Her work has earned WBCUtah national recognition, most recently as the 2025 Women's Business Center of Excellence by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

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