Program helping women start companies at milestone

Expediter Services and the Women In Trucking Association shared an update on their collaborative initiative to create 150 women-owned businesses in transportation. The initiative, called the 150 Business Challenge, has led to nearly 75 new trucking start-ups since it was announced about one year ago.

The 150 Business Challenge is a platform that offers accessible financing as well as operational and business support for women who have an interest in a career within the trucking industry. The program utilizes the infrastructure and expertise of Expediter Services, which has provided ownership opportunities within the trucking industry for more than a decade.

Jason Williams, president of Expediter ServicesJason Williams, president of Expediter Services

The program captured the interest of Forward Air and Panther Premium, a Service of ArcBest. The two transportation companies became the primary participating carriers for the program.

Professional drivers interested in Expediter Services’ truck ownership programs go through a screening and qualification process. The company offers qualified participants competitive, market-rate financing to own trucks from leading equipment brands.

“One of the founding principles of our company is to be of service and to provide opportunities to people. As we developed our truck ownership programs, we took note of the hurdles women have faced in trucking from a financial standpoint when looking to start a business,” said Jason Williams, president of Expediter Services.

According to officials at Expediter Services, this group of small businesses started through the 150 Business Challenge are generating a combined revenue total well in excess of $1.5 million per month. Participants have their choice of operating their trucks within expedited, truckload or LTL through Panther Premium and Forward Air.

“As we begin our second year with this program, we’re ready for the continued growth we expect to see,” said Williams, who also serves on the board of the Women In Trucking Association.