In a world where traditional employment models continue to evolve, women across the globe are increasingly opting for self-employment as a viable and empowering career choice. Gone are the days when securing a stable job in a corporate office was the only path to success. Today, women of all ages are taking the reins of their careers, setting up businesses, and thriving in industries that were once dominated by men. By recognising their skills and abilities, seeing female role models, embracing the opportunities of digital businesses and joining support networks, women across the world have never had better chances to challenge the male-dominated business world - and to teach the men a few lessons while they're at it!
But why is working for themselves such a great choice for women? CAP's Enterprise Director, Hayleigh Bryant, explores the benefits of women’s enterprise and how programmes across the world are fostering this female entrepreneurial shift.
Freedom, Flexibility, and Work-Life Balance
One of the most significant advantages of self-employment for women is the flexibility it offers. The freedom to set your own schedule allows for a better work-life balance — an essential factor for women who juggle multiple responsibilities, such as family care, household management, and personal aspirations. Women in self-employment have the opportunity to structure their working hours to suit their lifestyles, whether it's working from home, setting up a business from scratch, or managing operations remotely. This flexibility is a game-changer for many women who find traditional work environments rigid or constricting.
Also, the opportunity to run a small business alongside a job is increasingly appealing to the side-hustle generation of young women, who see setting up a portfolio of income as a way to financial independence and increased control.
Financial Independence and Control
Self-employment offers women a chance to take control of their financial futures. Instead of relying on a salary from an employer, female entrepreneurs have the potential to earn based on their efforts and the success of their ventures. This financial independence not only gives women a sense of security but also empowers them to make decisions that align with their goals and values. In industries where the gender pay gap persists, running a business allows women to set their own rates, create pricing structures, and retain profits without the constraints of an employer's salary cap.
Creativity and Innovation
Running their own businesses also allows women to tap into their creativity and innovative potential. Whether it's launching a new product, offering a unique service, or disrupting an established industry, female entrepreneurs can shape their careers around their passions. This creative freedom is particularly appealing for women who have ideas that don’t fit into traditional employment structures. It’s a chance to build something meaningful and impactful, not just for themselves, but for their communities and the global marketplace.
Support Networks and International Programmes
While starting a business can seem daunting, there is an increasing number of resources and global programmes designed to support women entrepreneurs. For example, UN Women’s Empower Women Initiative provides tools, resources, and a global network to connect female entrepreneurs with mentors, peers, and potential investors. This initiative helps women from underserved communities access financial resources, grow their businesses, and achieve sustainable success.
Another vital programme is the Women’s Enterprise and Employment Programme from the World Bank, which focuses on providing women in developing countries with the skills, training, and financial backing to launch their businesses. Similarly, the European Union's COSME program offers funding and training opportunities for women entrepreneurs across Europe, helping them compete on a global scale.
Looking very locally, our WomenKind programme supports Kent-based women from any background to develop the confidence, knowledge and focus to take positive steps forward into self-employment. Many of the mums we work with see becoming their own boss as not only the most convenient way to juggle family and other commitments, but also as the most rewarding and empowering.
The Road Ahead for Women’s Enterprise
As more women choose self-employment, the global landscape of entrepreneurship continues to shift - perhaps towards a gentler, purpose-driven and more nurturing business world, where profit doesn't drive every decision. How nice does that sound?
With the right support and access to resources, women from all walks of life can realize their entrepreneurial dreams. Whether it’s the flexibility of working for oneself, the financial independence that comes with it, or the opportunity to innovate, self-employment can be a rewarding career choice for women of all ages. Thanks to an array of global programs and initiatives, the future of women’s enterprise looks brighter than ever.
In the end, self-employment isn’t just a career choice; it’s a powerful movement toward women’s empowerment, financial freedom, and a brighter, more inclusive global economy. It's something that we at CAP are glad to be a part of, in our own little way.
Happy International Women's Day!
From all of us at CAP Enterprise cic
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