In 2009, Tara Gilvar’s life changed when a bumper sticker caught her eye with a message that resonated deeply: “Remember Who You Wanted to Be.” Inspired by this simple yet powerful phrase, Tara sent an email to her community, igniting a movement that would empower countless women to chase their dreams and redefine their destinies.
Today, Tara is the CEO and founder of B.I.G. (Believe Inspire Grow), a community of women entrepreneurs who support one another through the highs and lows of business and personal growth. As B.I.G. celebrates its 17th anniversary, Tara reflects on the journey.
“My hope is for B.I.G. to continue evolving and fostering a culture of women supporting women for generations to come,” she shares.
Over the years, B.I.G. has provided members with meaningful opportunities to grow their businesses and expand their networks. Among them was a partnership with the global fintech company Fiserv, which showcased more than thirty B.I.G. member businesses to over 3,000 employees at its Berkeley Heights Innovation Center.
While B.I.G. began in New Jersey, the organization has expanded both nationally and globally. This past summer, Tara led a group of nine U.S. women entrepreneurs, including family law attorney Sandra Fava, on a global women’s retreat to Malaga, Spain, where they met and built relationships with B.I.G.’s international sister organization, Costa Women.
Costa Women, founded by Ali Meehan, supports women entrepreneurs across Europe by helping them enhance their professional and personal lives. For the past nine years, B.I.G. and Costa Women have hosted monthly online educational sessions and networking events for their joint members, building meaningful relationships and opportunities along the way.
In the United States, B.I.G.’s local community groups, called pods, bring women together monthly in Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and most recently Sarasota County, Florida. These gatherings provide a supportive environment where women collaborate, brainstorm business ideas, and navigate both professional and personal challenges.
B.I.G. exists to empower women to rediscover their sense of self, build authentic connections, and confidently pursue lives and businesses that feel aligned, supported, and meaningful.
Looking ahead, Tara Gilvar and her leadership team aim to create a lasting, multi-generational women’s empowerment community that inspires growth, connection, and impact locally and globally through education, shared experiences, and genuine human connection.
Two remarkable women, Sandra Fava and Cathy Maloney, are shining examples of how B.I.G. members embody these values and thrive in their own unique ways.
Cathy Maloney: Empowering Through Homeownership
Cathy Maloney, VP of Mortgage Lending at Atlantic Financial Services, finds her greatest motivation in making homeownership a reality for her clients.
“Seeing the excitement on a new home buyer’s face when I tell them their loan is approved is priceless!” Cathy says, reflecting on the meaningful impact of her work.
Throughout her career, Cathy has overcome challenges by leaning on her network of real estate partners and her B.I.G. sisters.
“The support, empowerment, and friendship from the B.I.G. community are invaluable. I never hesitate to call on one of my B.I.G. sisters for inspiration or problem-solving,” she shares.
Cathy also embraces the challenge of working with clients who may not fit the ideal mortgage profile.
“I’ve successfully guided people with credit issues, low down payments, and spotty employment through the mortgage approval process,” she explains.
For aspiring entrepreneurs: “Know your business and educate your clients. A confused mind says no. Develop a strong support network and stay resilient.”
Reach Cathy at cmaloney@atlanticloans.com
Sandra Fava: Advocating for Families in Transition
Sandra Fava, ESQ, is a passionate advocate for families navigating complex transitions, including divorce, custody disputes, asset division, and domestic violence. She has been helping families for over 20 years. Her dedication to family law stems from personal experiences and her journey through law school, shaping her desire to support clients through some of life’s most challenging moments.
“Being a part of this process and helping through the transition is real and personal work, and deeply gratifying,” Sandra shares.
After over a decade of inspiration from the B.I.G. community, Sandra took a bold step and founded her own law firm in September 2024. She gained invaluable insights on financial challenges and business ownership, lessons not taught in law school.
Her advice to aspiring female entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful: “Be prepared and know your worth.”
Join B.I.G.
Women interested in exploring B.I.G. locally are currently invited to attend one complimentary meeting at a pod of their choice through B.I.G.’s new “Give & Get” promotion.
As part of the organization’s 17th Anniversary Celebration, new members can receive $75 off the annual membership fee through April 30, 2026.
For more information, visit www.believeinspiregrow.com or email membership@believeinspiregrow.co
“My hope is for B.I.G. to continue evolving and fostering a culture of women supporting women for generations to come”