Our journey began in 2008 when Jennifer Dooley-Hogan founded Dooley & Associates from a small home office. A framed 2’ x 3’ sign hung behind her desk—a daily reminder of humble beginnings that still holds a place of honor in our lobby today. From the start, our goal has been simple: to help businesses and organizations grow through results-driven marketing solutions.

When Dooley & Associates was founded, digital marketing was just beginning to take shape, and social media was in its infancy. Businesses still relied on print ads, direct mail, and even directories like the Yellow Pages. Today, over 55% of most marketing budgets are dedicated to digital channels, reflecting the massive shift toward online advertising, website optimization, and social media engagement.

Marketing has also evolved beyond traditional sales tactics. Brands now focus on education and relationship-building through content—blogs, thought leadership, and webinars—helping businesses establish trust and authority in their industries.

Advancements in analytics have made marketing more data-driven than ever. Tools for tracking customer behavior and campaign performance have allowed for more targeted strategies.

However, with evolving consumer privacy protections, businesses must continually adapt to remain effective while respecting user data.

Social media has become a cornerstone of modern marketing, with platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram driving brand awareness and engagement. As of January 2025, 5.24 billion people worldwide—nearly 64% of the global population—are active on social media. In the U.S., 73% of adults engage with at least one platform, underscoring the undeniable role social media plays in connecting businesses with their audiences.

Women are launching businesses at a record pace, fueling job creation and innovation across industries. In 2008, women-owned businesses were growing but still underrepresented. Today, their impact is undeniable—nationally, women now own 14 million businesses, accounting for 39.1% of all U.S. businesses. This remarkable growth reflects expanding opportunities, increased access to resources, and a shift toward a more inclusive entrepreneurial environment.

Even in traditionally conservative markets like the Midwest, women entrepreneurs are transforming industries such as marketing, tech, and hospitality. In Wisconsin, women-owned businesses now represent over 41% of all businesses, with particular strength in fields like healthcare and social assistance, where they make up nearly two-thirds of establishments. This rapid expansion highlights not only the resilience of women business owners but also their ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in competitive markets.

As more women take the leap into entrepreneurship, they continue to drive economic growth, create jobs, and bring fresh perspectives to industries that were once male-dominated. The business landscape has changed dramatically since 2008, and with ongoing support, investment, and networking opportunities, the future looks even brighter for women in business.

Women’s History Month is a time to honor those who have paved the way and to recognize how far we’ve come. For us, celebrating our anniversary in March feels like more than just a coincidence—it’s a chance to reflect on the progress of women in business and our own journey as a company.