Kansas City, MO, January 3, 2026
J Franco, CEO and Founder of FIMM Agency, has been named the 2026 American Business Woman of the Year by the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA). This recognition highlights the entrepreneurial spirit in Kansas City and showcases the impact of dedicated entrepreneurs. Franco’s achievements underscore the mission of empowering women through professional development and networking. As ABWA continues its legacy established in Kansas City, Franco’s success serves as an inspiration for aspiring businesswomen navigating the competitive professional landscape.
Kansas City, MO
Local Roots, National Recognition: J Franco Honored as ABWA’s Business Woman of the Year
A national spotlight shines on the entrepreneurial spirit inherent in the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) as J Franco, CEO and Founder of FIMM Agency, was named the 2026 American Business Woman of the Year. The announcement, originating from Kansas City, Missouri, underscores the profound impact of dedicated entrepreneurs and the enduring legacy of an organization founded right here in the heartland. This recognition celebrates not only individual achievement but also the collective drive for business excellence and personal growth that propels our economy forward.
In a thriving business landscape, the determination of small-business owners and innovative leaders is a critical engine of economic growth. Franco’s journey exemplifies how focused effort and strategic acumen can lead to significant success, inspiring countless others. Her recognition by ABWA, an organization with deep ties to Kansas City, highlights a tradition of empowering women to achieve their professional aspirations, contributing to a robust and dynamic business environment.
A Legacy Forged in Kansas City
The American Business Women’s Association, a national professional association, was established in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 22, 1949. This foundational moment saw Kansas City businessman Hilary Bufton Jr. and three local businesswomen incorporate the organization, recognizing the growing potential and need for support among working women. At a time when pursuing full-time careers was less common for women, ABWA emerged as a pioneering force, aiming to provide opportunities for professional development, education, and networking. Its mission is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support, and national recognition.
This Kansas City MO business initiative quickly grew into a nationwide movement, fostering environments where women could connect, learn, and excel. ABWA’s enduring presence reflects a commitment to supporting individuals who drive economic activity and create jobs through their ventures. The organization’s roots in the city serve as a testament to Kansas City’s long-standing role as a hub for entrepreneurial innovation and community-driven progress.
Celebrating Entrepreneurial Excellence: J Franco
J Franco, the acclaimed CEO and Founder of FIMM Agency, has been honored as the 2026 American Business Woman of the Year, ABWA’s highest individual recognition. Her firm, FIMM Agency, specializes in content marketing and social media management, primarily supporting service-based business owners. Franco’s leadership and innovative strategies have garnered significant acclaim, establishing her as a prominent figure in her field.
Her professional achievements include being a two-time Stevie Award recipient, recognized as Social Media Manager of the Year in both 2024 and 2025. Additionally, Franco received the 2025 Sheri Parrack Diversity in Excellence Small Business Award and was named the Federation of Houston Professional Women (FHPW) Entrepreneur of the Year in 2024. These accolades highlight her dedication to excellence and her significant contributions to the business community. Franco holds a Master of Communication Management from the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School, an MBA, and a bachelor’s degree with a marketing concentration. Based in Houston, Texas, her work at FIMM Agency demonstrates the power of specialized expertise and unwavering commitment in building a successful small business.
The Power of Local Networks in Kansas City
ABWA’s impact extends directly into the Kansas City MO business community through its local chapters and networks. These local groups provide vital platforms for Missouri MO entrepreneurs to engage in networking, leadership development, and ongoing education. For instance, the Mo-Kan Chapter, chartered in Lenexa, Kansas, in 1980, aims to be the premier organization for women in the Kansas City area, focusing on developing leaders and enhancing learning. Similarly, the ABWA-Kansas City Express Network in Overland Park, Kansas, emphasizes building relationships, networking, and business education to help members succeed both personally and professionally.
These local networks are crucial for fostering Kansas City small business growth. They offer opportunities for businesswomen to share insights, collaborate, and access resources that might otherwise be unavailable. By providing a supportive community, these chapters play a significant role in nurturing entrepreneurial talent and resilience, contributing to the broader Midlands economic growth.
Fostering Future Business Leaders Nationwide
Beyond individual awards, ABWA’s broader mission focuses on empowering women nationwide through leadership development, education, networking support, and national recognition. The association provides various programs, including regional and national conferences featuring professional speakers and workshops on topics relevant to contemporary working women. These initiatives aim to equip women with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in diverse occupations, from administrative roles to executive positions and small-business ownership.
ABWA also supports educational pursuits through the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund, which has contributed over $17 million to women’s professional success through education. This focus on continuous learning and professional growth aligns with the principles of self-reliance and innovation that are essential for sustained economic prosperity. By investing in the development of women in business, ABWA helps cultivate a stronger, more dynamic workforce and a more competitive economy.
Conclusion
J Franco’s recognition as the 2026 American Business Woman of the Year by the Kansas City-founded ABWA is a powerful reminder of the impact of entrepreneurial vision and dedication. Her achievements, rooted in strategic innovation and a commitment to excellence, echo the founding principles of ABWA. As Kansas City continues to cultivate a vibrant business environment, the stories of leaders like Franco and the foundational support provided by organizations like ABWA are essential. We encourage our readers to support local businesses and engage with the many organizations that foster entrepreneurial growth, contributing to Kansas City’s robust economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA)?
The American Business Women’s Association is a national professional association founded in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 22, 1949. Its mission is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support, and national recognition.
Who is J Franco?
J Franco is the CEO and Founder of FIMM Agency, a firm specializing in content marketing and social media management for service-based business owners. She was named the 2026 American Business Woman of the Year by ABWA, the association’s highest individual honor.
What are some of J Franco’s notable achievements?
J Franco is a two-time Stevie Award recipient, recognized as Social Media Manager of the Year in both 2024 and 2025. She also received the 2025 Sheri Parrack Diversity in Excellence Small Business Award and was named the Federation of Houston Professional Women (FHPW) Entrepreneur of the Year in 2024.
Where is J Franco’s business, FIMM Agency, based?
FIMM Agency, founded by J Franco, is based in Houston, Texas.
How does ABWA support businesswomen?
ABWA supports businesswomen through leadership development, education, networking support, and national recognition. It offers programs like regional and national conferences with professional speakers and workshops, and provides educational grants through the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund.
Key Features of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA)
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Founding Location | Kansas City, Missouri | Local |
| Founding Date | September 22, 1949 | Nationwide |
| Mission | To bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth through leadership, education, networking support, and national recognition. | Nationwide |
| Members | Businesswomen of diverse occupations, including executives, managers, professionals, and small-business owners. | Nationwide |
| Support Mechanisms | Leadership development, education (including conferences, workshops, and grants), networking support, and national recognition. | Nationwide |
| Educational Fund | Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund (contributed over $17 million). | Nationwide |
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