Ombrella isn't a typical consulting firm, but its model is one that works for founder Laurie Simon. The Seattle-based firm often pursues short-term projects, so its contractor consultants—many of whom are women—can be home with their families, but still make valuable contributions to clients and the consulting world at large. Ombrella, a technology firm now seeking contracts in the public sector, is also making waves through its involvement with the women-friendly "Give Me 5%" campaign. Simon recently spoke with Consulting about the Ombrella model and her political efforts.
Consulting: Tell me about Ombrella's origin.
Simon: I started Ombrella about four years ago. And since then we have expanded from a $100,000 company to a projected $5 million dollar company this year. It's 100 percent women-owned. Previously most of our clients have been big Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft. We have since expanded into doing business with Expedia. And we also expanded into the La Jolla area of San Diego. We're also very interested in and are going through several certifications right now to be able to work with the federal government. I would say we're 90 percent there.
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