Women starting a business more likely to feel ‘isolated’ than men

Women are twice as likely to feel ‘isolated’ when starting up their own business than men, new research suggests.

A report by start-up accelerator initiative Entrepreneurial Spark acknowledged the challenging nature for anyone wanting to start up a business on their own, but uncovered key gender differences.

The report also found that 58 per cent of men were driven to start up a business so that they could be their own boss, while only 46 per cent of women saw this as the driving factor.

The research, which was carried out to mark the start of Accelerate Your Business Week, also highlighted that 31 per cent of women are driven into starting up a business after having a great idea, in comparison to just 19 per cent of men.

CEO of Entrepreneurial Spark Jim Duffy explained: “If we are truly going to create an entrepreneurial revival across the UK then it is not enough to rely on the individual.

"Almost 60 per cent of business owners told us there is not enough practical, free support and advice out there for people to start a business or grow an existing business. We know that it is tough in the start-up world and having the right support from an early stage hugely increases the chance of success.”

When it comes to the financial side of things, women came up on top, with only 14 per cent noting difficulties acquiring finance as their biggest challenge, as opposed to 20 per cent of male respondents.

Women were more likely to seek a mentor than men, according to the 59 per cent and 48 per cent respectively who saw seeking a mentor as helpful.

The report highlighted that with Christmas fast approaching, October is the best month to grow businesses and achieve yearly goals. If you have considered growing your business through acquisition but have not found the right business to buy, you should get in touch with our team, call 0208 875 0200.

Share this article

Latest Businesses for Sale

View more businesses for sale