TWAW SHOOTING CHAPTERS INC

What TWAW SHOOTING CHAPTERS INC does

TWAW Shooting Chapters, Inc., doing business as Armed Women of America (AWA), is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona that operates a national network of women-only firearms training chapters. Founded in 2015 as a spin-off from Carrie Lightfoot's The Well Armed Woman, LLC and rebranded to its current name in 2021, AWA organizes local groups of women across 42 U.S. states that meet monthly for combined classroom instruction and live-fire range exercises led by certified female volunteer instructors. As of the most recent disclosures, the organization sustains approximately 300 chapters, 5,844 paying chapter members, and 534 volunteer chapter leaders, conducting more than 200 chapter meetings per month through partnerships with over 250 host shooting ranges.

AWA's core product is its annual chapter membership, priced between $85 (single chapter) and $190 (eight chapters), with each additional chapter available for $15/year. The organization also offers an Anywhere Virtual Online (AVO) chapter for members without local access—including overseas U.S. military personnel, shift workers, and caregivers—delivered via Zoom meetings, archived recordings, and private social media groups. There is no proprietary technology platform; operations rely on member management software, a chapter-leader app, virtual meeting infrastructure, and social media. Secondary revenue streams include tiered corporate sponsorships (Ruger, Gunsite Academy, Sig Sauer, MantisX, Derya Arms, Hunters HD Gold), annual online auctions (run with Pot of Gold Estate Auctions), quarterly sweepstakes, and tax-deductible donations.

The organization's go-to-market motion is community-led: women join via local chapters, the virtual AVO chapter, or gift memberships, with growth driven by word-of-mouth, peer recruitment campaigns (e.g., the Freedom 250 campaign targeting 250 new members by July 4, 2026), and a marketing mix anchored by a Journal/blog, monthly newsletter (73% open rate), social media, the annual National Leadership Conference, regional shoots, and the #NotMe Day awareness event. AWA does not disclose revenue, operates with a small national office staff (1–10 employees), and is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors led by Executive Director Jan Ennenga (appointed April 2024).

Name

TWAW SHOOTING CHAPTERS INC

Legal name

TWAW Shooting Chapters, Inc.

Website

https://armedwomen.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

2015

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

Armed Women of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit operating approximately 300 women-only firearms training chapters across 42 U.S. states, serving roughly 5,844 members through monthly in-person and virtual instruction led by certified volunteer instructors at partner shooting ranges.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Firearms Training & Self-Defense Education

NAICS

Business, Professional, Labor, Political, and Similar Organizations (8139), Social Advocacy Organizations (8133)

SIC

Services-Membership Sports & Recreation Clubs (7997), Services-Membership Organizations (8600)

akta.pro industry

PRIMARYHSADADAH

Women’s Self-Defense Classes

Home & Personal Services/Fitness, Wellness & Personal Training/Martial Arts & Self-Defense Training

SECONDARYMPAKADAC

Meet & Invitational Organizers

Media, Entertainment & Sports/Sports (Leagues, Teams, Events, Venues)/Sports Event & Tournament Organizers (Tours, Championships, Meets)

Keywords

• Women firearms training
• Shooting chapter memberships
• Self-defense education
• Firearms safety instruction
• Women shooting community

Headquarters

HQ city

Phoenix

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Others, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D

Revenue model

1. Chapter Membership Dues: Annual membership fees ranging from $85/year for 1 chapter to $190/year for 8 chapters. Additional chapters cost $15 each per year. Minor memberships (14-17) cost $85/year. Memberships run one year from date of purchase and include an auto-renew option.
2. Donations: Tax-deductible charitable donations accepted at national level, chapter level, and via recurring donation platforms (MyGivingCircle, PayPal). Minimum donation $25 for national; auction fund minimum $100.
3. Sponsorships: Corporate sponsors at tiered levels (.50 caliber, .45 caliber, 9mm, .22 caliber) provide financial support and products. In return, sponsors receive brand visibility with 5,800+ members, newsletter mentions, and event presence.
4. Online Auction: Annual online auction (partnered with Pot of Gold Estate Auctions) featuring firearms, ammo, holsters, apparel, and accessories. Proceeds support the organization's mission.
5. Sweepstakes: Quarterly sweepstakes and fundraising campaigns (e.g., Freedom 250, Spring Sweepstakes) where voluntary donations enter members into prize drawings. Prizes include firearms and gear from sponsors.
6. Affiliate / Member Discount Programs: Business partners offer member discounts; some partners operate affiliate/referral programs. Revenue derived indirectly through increased member retention and recruitment.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

TWAW Shooting Chapters, Inc. (Armed Women of America) is a non-profit organization that organizes a national network of local women's shooting chapters that meet monthly to learn, practice, and grow as safe and responsible firearm owners and self-protectors. Members join via annual chapter memberships ($85–$190 per year for access to 1–8 chapters) and attend monthly in-person meetings combining classroom instruction and live-fire range exercises led by certified volunteer women instructors. The organization also offers a virtual Anywhere Virtual Online (AVO) Chapter, a Minor Membership for ages 14–17, an annual National Conference & Leadership Summit, an annual online auction, the #NotMe Day awareness event, quarterly sweepstakes, and branded merchandise.

Product overview

Armed Women of America (TWAW Shooting Chapters, Inc.) operates as a non-profit organization offering firearms training and self-defense education exclusively for women. The core offering consists of chapter-based memberships ($85/year for 1 chapter, additional chapters $15 each) that provide access to monthly in-person meetings combining classroom instruction and live fire range exercises led by certified volunteer instructors. The organization also offers an Anywhere Virtual Online (AVO) Chapter for those without local access, plus specialized memberships for minors aged 14-17. Additional programs include an annual National Conference & Leadership Summit, quarterly sweepstakes, an annual online auction, the #NotMe Day awareness event, and branded merchandise through an online store. The organization has approximately 255 chapters across 42 states with over 5,800 members and 534 chapter leaders.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Chapter Membership (1–8 Chapters) Annual subscription membership giving women access to monthly in-person chapter meetings (classroom instruction + live-fire range exercises) led by certified volunteer women instructors. Tiered at $85/year for 1 chapter, with additional chapters at $15 each per year up to 8 chapters ($190/year total). Includes new member welcome gift, national brand discounts, online resources, and member newsletter.
• Anywhere Virtual Online (AVO) Chapter Membership Virtual annual membership for women without a local chapter, military stationed overseas, shift workers, caregivers, and frequent travelers. Minimum age 16. Includes monthly Zoom meetings, archived recordings, private social media groups, monthly newsletter, and exclusive content. Available as a standalone or as a $15/year add-on chapter for existing members.
• Minor Membership (Ages 14-17) Annual youth membership ($85/year) for young women aged 14-17 accompanied by a female parent or legal guardian who is an active member. Requires application review, staff approval, and chapter leader verification. Subject to state laws and range rules.
• National Conference & Leadership Summit Annual national leadership conference bringing together chapter leaders for training, networking, and professional development, including instructor development courses. Past venues include St. Louis MO, Phoenix AZ, Jacksonville FL, Provo UT, Branson MO, and Asheville NC.
• Annual Online Auction Annual online fundraising auction featuring firearms, ammunition, apparel, holsters, and accessories, conducted through Pot of Gold Estate Auctions. The 2026 auction is the third annual edition with presenting sponsor Ruger. Proceeds support the organization's mission.
• AWA Merchandise Store Online store offering Armed Women of America branded merchandise including apparel, hats, and accessories. Operated through Spreadshop with additional offerings on Bonfire and Redbubble platforms.

Quantifiable outcome

• 5,844 chapter members across 255+ chapters in 42 states
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers1 record

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

25 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Ruger (Sturm, Ruger & Co.)coreGTM or Marketing PartnerRuger is a .50 Caliber (top-tier) corporate sponsor and the presenting sponsor of the 2026 Online Auction. The partnership began at the first AWA National Leadership Conference in 2014. Ruger offers firearms products, content, and brand credibility. Ruger has been a model of corporate and community responsibility for 75 years with the motto 'Arms Makers for Responsible Citizens.'
• Gunsite AcademycoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerGunsite Academy is a .50 Caliber sponsor and long-time top corporate sponsor. It hosts AWA's largest chapter in Arizona and frequently hosts the Arizona state shoot. Gunsite designed the 'Armed Women of America Instructor Development' three-day course for chapter leader development. Gunsite is a 3,200-acre firearms training facility offering instruction in handgun, carbine, shotgun, and precision rifle.
• Sig Sauer / Sig ConnectcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerSig Sauer is a .50 Caliber sponsor and contributor to the 2026 Online Auction. Sig Connect's interactive smart-target system is promoted to AWA members. Sig Sauer provides firearms, suppressors, optics, and ammunition, and offers training through SIG SAUER Academy.
• MantisXcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerMantisX is a .50 Caliber sponsor. The MantisX gun training system uses a data-driven approach with a device that attaches to any firearm's accessory rail and analyzes every shot via Bluetooth smartphone app. Promoted in AWA's blog and journal as a dry fire trainer for skill improvement.
• Derya ArmscoreGTM or Marketing PartnerDerya is a .50 Caliber sponsor. Founded in 1998 in Türkiye, Derya Arms manufactures ISO 9001 and SAAMI-certified firearms. Established U.S. manufacturing and branding operations in Jacksonville, Florida in 2024. Products include the DY9 semi-automatic pistol featured as a grand prize in the Freedom 250 campaign.
• Hunters HD GoldcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerHunters HD Gold is a .50 Caliber sponsor. Their photochromic lenses automatically adjust tint to changing light levels for hunting and shooting. Gift certificates and products featured in sweepstakes prizes. Promoted in the AWA blog for offering women comfortable, confident shooting experiences.
• SilencerCocoreGTM or Marketing PartnerSilencerCo is a .45 Caliber sponsor. Founded in 2008, SilencerCo specializes in suppressors and shooting accessories. Products promoted as enhancing the shooting experience. All products carry a limited lifetime warranty and are American-made.
• Hot BrasscoreGTM or Marketing PartnerHot Brass is a 9mm sponsor. Dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for women in pistol and rifle shooting. Offers ammunition optimized for women's comfort and control, and Hot Brass sporting apparel. Articles on the AWA Journal feature Hot Brass as a sponsor.
• Gun Tote'n Mamas (GTM)coreGTM or Marketing PartnerGTM is a long-standing sponsor and partner. An affordable line of concealed carry handbags inspired and developed by women for women. GTM has been present at every national AWA event since the first Leadership Conference and received an award during the 2023 National Conference. Products featured in sweepstakes prize packages.
• Pot of Gold Estate AuctionscoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerAWA's partner for its annual online auction. Pot of Gold Estate Auctions brings 80+ years combined experience in antiques, firearms, coins, jewelry, and collectibles. Provides full-service auction cataloging, professional photography, and world-class service. Ships donated items to AWA at Avondale, AZ address.
• MyGivingCircleminorGTM or Marketing PartnerRecurring donation platform partner. Members can set up recurring donations to AWA through MyGivingCircle. AWA also uses MyGivingCircle for voting campaigns to gain visibility and community support.
• Magpul IndustriescoreGTM or Marketing PartnerMagpul is a 9mm sponsor. Founded in 1999 with hundreds of firearms accessories including magazines, stocks, slings, grips, and handguards. Products promoted in AWA's blog through guest author posts (e.g., AR-15 customization article by Carrin Welch, Digital Marketing Manager at Magpul).
• Langdon Tactical (LTT)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartner sponsor. LTT creates customized confidence by making great firearms extraordinary through craftsman optimization of mass-production firearms. 'Precision Built Confidence' is their mission. Promoted on the AWA sponsor page.
• ERGO GripsminorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartner sponsor. ERGO Grips manufactures firearm grips and accessories for ARs, AKs, shotguns, 1911s, and revolvers. 100% made in the USA in Moriarty, New Mexico. Products include small arms accessories for civilian, law enforcement, and military use worldwide.
• CrossBreed HolstersminorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartner sponsor and member discount provider. Leading manufacturer of concealed carry holsters for nearly two decades. Hybrid holsters made with highest quality tanned leather, manufactured and shipped in the USA. Member discount available.
• 3i HolstersminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Offers members 10% savings on their holster products. Discount codes available in the password-protected member benefits area.
• Accelerated Firearm TrainingminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Training provider offering members a 15% discount. Featured on the membership discounts page.
• Carry GirlminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Offers 15% discount to AWA members on their products.
• Elite PreparednessminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Offers 20% savings to AWA members.
• Elite Tactical / Elite Survival SystemsminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Offers special rates to AWA members.
• Gabby Franco TrainingminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Offers special training rates to AWA members.
• OTIS TechnologyminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Offers firearms cleaning and maintenance products to AWA members.
• Project AppleseedminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Special events offered to AWA members.
• Remora HolstersminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. Offers members 35% savings on their holster products.
• USCCA / Delta DefenseminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMember discount partner. USCCA provides self-defense education, training, and insurance products to firearms owners. Featured on the membership discounts page.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves8 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Direct peers

• A Girl & A Gun Women's Shooting League: A Girl & A Gun is a national women's shooting league and training organization offering monthly club matches, instructor-led events, and a similar member-based community model. It is a direct peer competing for the same women firearms enthusiast segment with overlapping chapter-style meeting structure.
• DC Project / Women for Gun Rights: DC Project is a national women's Second Amendment advocacy organization with state-level directors and firearms education programming. It competes for the same female gun-owner audience with overlapping advocacy, training, and event-driven membership models.
• USCCA / Delta Defense: USCCA provides concealed carry education, training, and self-defense insurance — and is listed as an AWA member-discount partner. It targets the same women gun-owner demographic with recurring-membership and educational content, making it a closely comparable peer.
• The Well Armed Woman (LLC): The Well Armed Woman was founded by Carrie Lightfoot in 2013 and was the original parent of AWA's chapter program before the 2015 nonprofit spinoff. It continues to operate as an adjacent women-focused firearms training and content brand, making it a direct peer and historical sibling entity.
• Project Appleseed: Project Appleseed is a volunteer-led marksmanship and heritage education organization that conducts weekend events across the U.S. and is an AWA member-discount partner. It targets a partially overlapping firearms education audience with a similar volunteer-led, event-driven model.

Broad incumbents

• Gunsite Academy: Gunsite Academy is a leading firearms training facility that also operates as a .50 caliber AWA sponsor and co-developed the AWA Instructor Development course. It is a broad incumbent in the firearms training category that overlaps in instructor certification and event programming.
• NRA Women's Network (NRA): The National Rifle Association's Women's Network serves as a firearms education and engagement arm of the largest U.S. firearms industry organization. It competes broadly for the same women gun-owner audience as a wider portfolio brand with significant incumbent advantages.
• National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF): NSSF is the firearms industry trade association that funds research, education, and outreach including women-focused initiatives. It is an established incumbent that overlaps with AWA in mission to grow female firearms participation but operates at industry scale rather than community-chapter level.

Emerging players

• Concealed Carry Women (CCW): Concealed Carry Women is a digital community and training resource focused on women concealed carriers. It is an emerging player that overlaps with AWA in self-defense education and concealed carry content for women, though it lacks a chapter network.
• Babespistols (Babes with Bullets): Babespistols (formerly Babes with Bullets) is a women's firearms training program offering online and in-person instruction. It is an emerging player in women-focused firearms education with overlapping content but smaller scale than AWA's chapter network.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Facebookfacebook.com/ArmedWomenofAmerica
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/twaw-shooting-chapters-inc

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles6 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about TWAW SHOOTING CHAPTERS INC