Washington, D.C. —The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) applauds the Administration for the nomination of Donald R. Cravins Jr. to serve as Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development. The U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is the only federal agency solely dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of minority business enterprises.
“NAWBO’s mission is to propel female entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power worldwide. Our government agencies supporting these efforts need to be fully staffed,” said NAWBO Board Chair Cristina Morales Heaney. “We are pleased to see the Administration taking the steps necessary to help ensure the growth and competitiveness of our minority women business owners. Mr. Cravins has the leadership skills, the knowledge, and the understanding of what our minority business owners need to succeed in today’s economy. We hope the Senate will act swiftly on his confirmation.“
Before his appointment, Donald “Don” Cravins, Jr. joined the National Urban League in 2021 as EVP and COO. In this capacity, he was responsible for working with President Morial to set and maintain goals, monitor work, and evaluate results to ensure departmental and organizational objectives and operating requirements are met and are in line with the needs and mission of NUL. Don also led NUL’s corporate diversity, equity, and inclusivity initiatives. Don brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors. Don’s other past experiences include serving as Staff Director at the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship and Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu of Louisiana and a member of the Louisiana State Legislature. A graduate of Louisiana State University and the Southern University Law Center, Don is also a Major in the Army National Guard.
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About NAWBO
Founded in 1975, NAWBO is the unified voice of America’s more than 11 million women-owned businesses representing the fastest-growing segment of the economy. NAWBO is the only dues-based organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries. NAWBO develops programs that help women entrepreneurs navigate the various stages of their business growth. To learn more, please visit www.nawbo.org.