What started as a simple idea to help local women-owned businesses connect and grow has become something much bigger. Fellow local woman-owned business, Empowered Ventures, a collaborative, women-driven platform and directory, is now leading what they hope to be a regional shift toward visibility, equity, and collective empowerment.
Co-founded by Hindi Marciniak, Morgan Massie, and Nyla Allen, Empowered Ventures is their response to a challenge many women in business know too well: a lack of access, visibility, and real support.
“Women are often told to build something from nothing — and do it quietly,” says Marciniak, CEO of Empowered Ventures. “We wanted to flip that script and create a space where women could be loud, visible, and supported.”
The idea for the directory was sparked by a local Facebook group for women-owned businesses created by Marciniak that quickly grew to more than 4,000 members.
That space evolved into what is now the Empowered Ventures Directory, a user-friendly, values-driven resource that helps consumers discover women-owned businesses across various industries and identities. Whether it’s a Black-owned skincare line, a Latina-owned design studio, or a veteran-owned consultancy, the directory aims to highlight the diversity and strength of women entrepreneurs.
And at just $5 a month to join (about the cost of a latte), it’s intentionally accessible. “This is about leveling the playing field,” says Marciniak. “We knew we needed to build something affordable, inclusive, and scalable.”
Morgan Massie, chief learning and development officer, helped develop the member experience. “For me, it’s all about connection,” she shares. “Our coaching team, events, and partnerships exist to help women not just be seen, but grow, lead, and thrive.”
Massie brings over two decades of leadership and coaching experience, now leading Empowered Ventures’ training programs and community-building efforts, offering everything from workshops to curated networking that’s designed to feel authentic, not transactional.
The third powerhouse behind the Empowered Ventures team is Nyla Allen, chief business officer and longtime wellness entrepreneur. Allen is the mind behind the business’ strategy. With over a decade of experience in building award-winning spas in Northern Nevada, Allen shares how she knows firsthand the isolation and resilience that often accompany a woman’s entrepreneurial journey.
“Empowered Ventures is about building something we didn’t have when we started out,” Allen explains. “It’s about being seen, but also being supported — financially, emotionally, and strategically.”
While local response has been positive, building the directory wasn’t without challenges. From aligning visions to navigating tech logistics, the co-founders relied on trust and shared values to keep moving forward. “It hasn’t been perfect,” says Massie, “but it’s been purpose-driven.”
Since its launch, members report landing new partnerships, getting discovered by customers who would’ve never found them otherwise, and perhaps most importantly, feeling a new sense of belonging.
“We’ve had women come to events in tears,” says Allen. “Not because they were sad, but because for the first time, they felt seen.”
In addition to being a tool for entrepreneurs, Empowered Ventures was designed for conscious consumers who want to support women-led businesses but don’t know where to start. “Every time someone uses the directory, they’re voting for [equality],” says Marciniak. “They’re investing in their own community.”
And the team’s vision hopes to extend far beyond Northern Nevada. Plans are already underway for a mobile app, strategic national partnerships, and even a Women’s BusinessSummit later this year.
“We’re building an ecosystem,” Massie says. “One that celebrates individuality but thrives on connection. It’s local, national, and entirely human.”
While Northern Nevada is where it all began, the team hopes Empowered Ventures can be a model of what is possible when women are fully supported in business.
“This isn’t about creating a moment,” Allen adds. “It’s about creating momentum.”