In honor of Women’s History Month, the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to spotlight several women-owned member businesses that are making an impact across our community. Women entrepreneurs continue to shape Chattanooga’s economy through innovation, resilience and leadership across industries. By highlighting these businesses, we celebrate the women building opportunities, strengthening local connections and contributing to the growth and vibrancy of our region.
Bird Fork Farm
Bird Fork Farm is a Certified Naturally Grown seed-to-bottle apothecary herb farm founded in 2020. Its mission is to connect people more deeply with the land, local food systems and the healing power of plants. Located just outside Chattanooga in Dunlap, Tennessee, the farm grows vegetables, fruits and herbs. These ingredients are then transformed into herbal teas, spices, extracts, elderberry syrup, fire cider, vinegars and plant-based body care products. All products are made from ingredients grown or foraged locally. In addition, BFF focuses on regenerative and low-till agricultural practices. These methods prioritize soil health, biodiversity and pesticide-free production. The farm supplies restaurants, markets and businesses throughout the Chattanooga region. It also serves as a learning hub for the community. Through herbal CSA memberships, workshops and volunteer days, the farm encourages people to reconnect with nature.
For founder Alysia Leon, farming began as a personal journey toward sustainability and connection with the natural world. At first, she simply wanted to live more intentionally. However, that goal eventually grew into a mission centered on regenerative agriculture, education and community care. As an LGBTQIA+, BIPOC female farmer in a rural community, Leon says Bird Fork Farm embraces its role as something “different.” Because of this perspective, she hopes the farm creates a welcoming space where people can connect through food, plants and the land. “Being a woman-owned business, especially in agriculture, highlights that women are capable, tough, resilient and smart,” Leon said. “It weaves love, care, tenderness and intention into all we do.”
Ultimately, Bird Fork Farm hopes to inspire people to think more deeply about the food, herbs and ingredients they use every day. Through education and community gatherings, the farm encourages a stronger connection between people, plants and the land
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Pool Scouts
Pool Scouts of Chattanooga, a locally owned pool cleaning and maintenance service focused on reliability, communication and customer trust. Founder Sonya St. Cin started the business after her own frustrating experience as a homeowner. When she first moved into her home, she had little experience maintaining a pool and struggled with algae issues, managing chemicals and finding dependable help for repairs and routine maintenance.
Over time, St. Cin learned how to manage much of the work herself and gained extensive knowledge about pool care. When the opportunity arose to start her own business, she saw an opportunity to create the dependable service she once needed. “I wanted to be the pool company I was always looking for — one that shows up when promised and gets the job done right,” St. Cin said. As a woman-owned business in a traditionally male-dominated industry, St. Cin said her perspective helps build trust with customers. She emphasizes clear communication, community-minded service and strong values in her approach to business.
Pool Scouts of Chattanooga aims to fill a gap in the local market by providing consistent service and reliable communication so homeowners can spend less time worrying about pool maintenance and more time enjoying their pools and time with family.
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Mailroom Pros
Mailroom Pros is a Chattanooga-based mail and print services company with roots dating back to 1985, when owner Ginger McClure’s mother launched the company’s predecessor from the family’s basement. McClure grew up around the business and learned the foundations of entrepreneurship at an early age. In early 2024, she became the company’s owner following her mother’s passing, continuing the legacy as a second-generation female entrepreneur.
In 2025, Mailroom Pros processed millions of pieces of mail and expanded its services to include a digital print shop. Today, the company provides concept-to-customer printing and mailing services for businesses across the region. With more than 40 years of combined experience, Mailroom Pros processes daily and handwritten mail, oversized envelopes and packages while helping clients identify postage savings through United States Postal Service regulations and promotions.
McClure also brings an academic perspective to her work. She earned a Ph.D. in marketing from the University of Georgia and previously taught MBA and doctoral students before applying those same principles to support her clients’ business goals. “Chattanooga businesses supported my mother in her early years, and I’m finding the same welcome as I begin this entrepreneurial chapter,” McClure said. The company sources materials locally, employs Chattanooga residents and focuses on keeping business revenue within the local economy.
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Chattanooga Salt Caverns & Wellness
Chattanooga Salt Caverns is an experience of relaxation and healing like no other. Founded by Rachel Shahen, her business idea sparked when she realized Halo-therapy, dry salt therapy known for supporting respiratory and skin health, was almost nonexistent in the area. “We are one of the largest allergy capitals of the world, and we host world-class events such as Ironman,” Shahen says. “I knew our community was in need of this service”.
Her journey as a woman entrepreneur is marked by motherhood and creativity tied together. “I remember contracting myself while changing my daughter’s diapers on pieces of plywood,” she shares. “I love that she has grown up watching what a woman, especially her mother, is capable of.” For her, being a woman-owned business in Chattanooga means showing that women can lead and create something meaningful from stem to stern. Shahen is hopeful that her mission can positively impact the community of Chattanooga. “Salt and sound are the primary healing tools I use,” she explains. “They are God-given remedies.”
Her space offers a sanctuary for those seeking relief from allergies, stress, respiratory challenges, and the fast pace of daily life. The salt cave environment, paired with sound therapy, creates a restorative experience that blends science, tradition and spirituality through meditation. In short, Chattanooga Salt Caverns is a testament to what happens when passion and perseverance come together to create healing for an entire city.
