Company Interview / Shattering the glass ceiling | the advisory

Women founders in Australia face significant challenges compared to men, particularly in securing funding.

Nichola Quail from She is AI discusses how emale entrepreneurs also experience biases in pitching, limited access to networks, and unequal representation on boards. They often juggle business leadership while handling a disproportionate share of unpaid labor, leading to higher burnout. However, women-led businesses deliver strong returns and drive social impact, and growing initiatives and policy support aim to close these gaps and foster more equitable opportunities in entrepreneurship.

Women now own 44% of small businesses in Australia, and 57% of these were founded in just the last five years. Female founders are driving significant economic activity, with women-led businesses projected to inject up to $135 billion into the Australian economy over the next decade. Over a quarter of women entrepreneurs are the primary earners in their households, and 37% report monthly revenues above $5,000.Despite their growing presence, women entrepreneurs face persistent barriers, particularly in accessing funding and investment. In 2023, only 4% of startup funding went to all-female teams, while all-male teams continue to dominate the funding landscape.Female founders are not only optimistic - 69% feel hopeful about business growth in the next six months - but are also leading in innovation and social impact. Over half of women business owners are focused on making tangible contributions in areas like health, social justice, and combating family violence. Many are also early adopters of technology, with nearly half using AI tools to boost competitiveness and efficiency.