The Maryland experienced 28 percent growth in women-owned businesses since 2007, a recent report finds. 'Neha Threading Salon & Spa' is an unassuming spot in Pikesville, Baltimore county, while it was nothing at all three years ago.

Spa owner Neha Gupta said that, “We were looking for a bigger place, and I got this opportunity and I thought this would be a great opportunity for my clients to come and relax." She opened her spa, which offers  everything from massages to hair-styling since starting. It has seen growth every year, Gupta said.

According to a new American Express OPEN report, Maryland reports a growth of  28 percent in women-owned businesses since 2007.  Maryland  national average growth rate for all businesses is  9 percent, which shows that, the growth rate of women-owned businesses is more than thrice of its  average growth rate. The revenue for women-owned businesses is increased nearly 40 percent, the report said.

"I see a lot of people. They come through, and it gives me an excitement when people are coming and they are enjoying my services,"  Gupta said.

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Nandini