The so-called “gender dividend” seems to be in the news these days. Research, public officials and corporate leaders are all exploring how women could spur greater economic growth.

Aren’t women already a major part of our national economy?

A little more than six years ago, the El Dorado Community Foundation tapped William Roby to become its new executive director. Roby had been working for the foundation for only a year as its program director, but the board was seeking a fresh personality to lead the organization. Since then, Roby has concentrated on one goal: getting the foundation to a point of fiscal sustainability so it can pay its own way.

Economic revival is giving some company owners hope that it may finally be a good time to sell their business. But without an exit strategy or some advance planning, those owners may be in for some sticker shock.

Women’s natural tendencies to nurture could be contributing to their downfall in the workplace, particularly when it comes to negotiating. But simply acting more masculine isn’t the answer, according to the experts.

Most businessmen have a dream of the business they want to build before they begin. Brian Watwood’s vision for his new company was born in a personal nightmare.

Chris Forsyth has a ritual: every time he finishes working on a campaign, he treats himself to a new tattoo. Having worked in the state Capitol for nearly 20 years, the heavily painted chief of staff to Senator Jim Beall (D-San Jose) estimates that about 15 percent of state lawmakers have at least one tattoo.

About four decades ago, Bob Clark and his brother Don began to work as weekend janitors for Clark Pacific. As young teens, they would tag along with Dad to work and earn a buck. Today, they are co-presidents of that same company, responsible for more than 500 employees and $75 million in annual revenue.

As demand increases for U.S. products in China, government leaders in the Capital Region and across the country are making a push to foster connections between small, local businesses and the world’s fastest growing consumer market.

Terry Green was sitting at home a few years ago when his cell phone rang.

Would his company be interested in doing some projects in China?