Women Can Do Business- Women entrepreneurs and business professionals are making strides across the globe, but some countries offer more opportunities, resources, and a supportive environment for women in business. Factors such as access to funding, ease of doing business, gender equality policies, and strong networks play a crucial role in determining the best countries for women to thrive in business. Here are some of the top countries where women can successfully establish and grow their businesses, along with real-world examples of female entrepreneurs making an impact.
1. United States
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
The U.S. is one of the best countries for women entrepreneurs due to its vast market, strong legal framework, and numerous funding opportunities, including grants and venture capital targeted at women-led startups. Organizations like Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) provide networking and mentorship opportunities.
Example: Whitney Wolfe Herd (Founder of Bumble)
Whitney Wolfe Herd created Bumble, a dating and networking app, which has become a billion-dollar company. Bumble’s success showcases how women entrepreneurs can thrive in the U.S. with the right business idea and access to funding.
2. Canada
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
Canada ranks high in gender equality and provides ample support for women entrepreneurs through government-backed grants, funding programs, and incubators. The country’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) aims to double the number of women-owned businesses by increasing access to resources and capital.
Example: Joanna Griffiths (Founder of Knix)
Joanna Griffiths launched Knix, a revolutionary lingerie brand that focuses on comfort and body positivity. Her success story highlights Canada’s thriving ecosystem for women-led businesses.
3. Sweden
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
Sweden has one of the most gender-equal societies in the world and a strong welfare system that supports work-life balance. With government support for women entrepreneurs and a progressive business environment, it is an excellent place for female business leaders.
Example: Isabella Löwengrip (Entrepreneur & Influencer)
Isabella Löwengrip built a multimillion-dollar beauty and tech empire in Sweden. Her success story demonstrates Sweden’s strong market for female entrepreneurs in diverse industries.
4. New Zealand
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
New Zealand is known for its low barriers to starting a business, transparent regulations, and inclusive policies. The country has one of the highest rates of female entrepreneurship globally.
Example: Cecilia Robinson (Founder of My Food Bag)
Cecilia Robinson co-founded My Food Bag, a meal delivery service that revolutionized how New Zealanders prepare and consume food. Her business success showcases the country’s supportive business environment for women.
5. Germany
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
Germany has a strong economy, a well-developed startup ecosystem, and a government committed to supporting women entrepreneurs. Programs such as Women Entrepreneurs in Science and Technology (EST) offer funding and mentorship to female-led businesses.
Example: Lea-Sophie Cramer (Founder of Amorelie)
Lea-Sophie Cramer created Amorelie, a lifestyle brand specializing in intimate products. Her success reflects Germany’s evolving market and opportunities for female entrepreneurs.
6. United Kingdom
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
The UK is home to various government initiatives and private sector programs that support female entrepreneurs. The British Business Bank offers funding programs, and organizations like Female Founders Forum provide networking opportunities.
Example: Sarah Wood (Co-founder of Unruly)
Sarah Wood co-founded Unruly, a successful advertising tech company that was later acquired by News Corp. Her journey highlights the UK’s thriving business landscape for women.
7. Australia
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
Australia has a strong startup ecosystem, business-friendly policies, and extensive funding opportunities for women entrepreneurs. The government’s Women’s Leadership and Development Program provides financial assistance and mentorship.
Example: Melanie Perkins (Founder of Canva)
Melanie Perkins co-founded Canva, a globally successful graphic design platform. Her story underscores Australia’s potential for female entrepreneurs in the tech industry.
8. France
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
France has a growing number of female entrepreneurs, supported by government policies and funding programs such as La French Tech and Women in Business Act. The country also promotes work-life balance, making it easier for women to manage businesses and families.
Example: Fany Pechiodat (Founder of My Little Paris)
Fany Pechiodat built My Little Paris, a successful online lifestyle brand. Her journey reflects France’s supportive ecosystem for women-led startups.
9. Singapore
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
Singapore is a global business hub with a low-tax economy, ease of doing business, and numerous funding opportunities for women entrepreneurs. The Women’s Entrepreneurial Network (WEN) supports female-led startups.
Example: Rachel Lim (Co-founder of Love, Bonito)
Rachel Lim co-founded Love, Bonito, a leading fashion brand in Asia. Her success story demonstrates Singapore’s potential for women entrepreneurs.
10. Netherlands
Why It’s Great for Women in Business
The Netherlands provides a great environment for startups, strong work-life balance policies, and extensive networking opportunities for female entrepreneurs. StartupAmsterdam and Women in Tech Netherlands offer funding and mentorship.
Example: Ali Niknam (Founder of Bunq)
Although Ali Niknam is not a female entrepreneur, the Netherlands has seen a rise in women-led businesses across industries, thanks to supportive government initiatives and progressive policies.
Conclusion
Women entrepreneurs are thriving in various countries thanks to supportive policies, funding opportunities, and strong business networks. The countries mentioned above offer some of the best environments for female entrepreneurs to start and scale their businesses. Whether it’s tech startups, fashion, or finance, these nations provide the necessary resources for women to succeed in business. As more governments and organizations recognize the importance of gender equality in entrepreneurship, the future looks promising for women in business worldwide.