Women who inspire: Key measures to boost women's participation in the entrepreneurial ecosystem

In recent years, female entrepreneurship has gained momentum in Spain. Women entrepreneurs have proven to be agents of change, capable of creating value and driving innovation in the business ecosystem. However, despite progress, gender gaps continue to hinder women's full participation in this field, particularly in areas such as funding, access to support networks, and the technology gap. March 8th, International Women’s Day, is an opportunity to reflect not only on the achievements made but also on the challenges that remain and, most importantly, to advocate for a fairer and more equal society..

This post aims to highlight the current challenges women face in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and propose key measures to promote their participation. Through the testimonies of various influential figures in the ecosystem, we seek to showcase their efforts and reflect on how their leadership can inspire more women to embark on entrepreneurial journeys.

The Impact of Women's Leadership in Entrepreneurship

Women play a crucial role in creating value within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their participation not only brings greater diversity of perspectives and innovative solutions but also drives the economy and fosters a more equal society.

According to the GEM Spain Report 2022-2023, the percentage of women intending to start a business within the next three years has seen a significant rise, reaching 10.9% in 2023—more than two percentage points higher than the previous year. However, despite this growing presence, women continue to face significant challenges on their entrepreneurial journey.

Women entrepreneurs in Spain face barriers that hinder their participation in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, such as limited access to funding due to the lower presence of women in the financial system; a lack of specific knowledge about starting and managing businesses, as well as fear of failure and a lower perception of opportunities; and the absence of professional networks, which makes it harder to secure funding and find business partners. Additionally, gender roles and work-life balance, including sexist stereotypes and social expectations; the demands of the sector, which are perceived as higher for women; and the lack of female role models, which limits the identification of successful examples, also hinder women's access to entrepreneurship.

Overcoming these obstacles is not only a matter of social justice but also of business competitiveness. As more women develop their business ventures, they contribute to a more dynamic, inclusive ecosystem that is better equipped to tackle the challenges of the future.

Six Inspiring Quotes to Drive Female Entrepreneurship

Below, we share six reflections from women leaders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, offering valuable insights into the measures needed to promote female participation in entrepreneurship.

Oriana Circelli, CEO of WoWplay Experience, highlights the importance of women no longer being seen as an “exception” in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, advocating for an environment where their presence and success are commonplace rather than unusual. This approach is key to driving cultural and structural change that benefits both female entrepreneurs and the ecosystem as a whole.

"We are seeing a shift, but there is still a long way to go before female entrepreneurship stops being 'exceptional' and becomes something natural."

For her part, Patricia Astrain, CEO of Recircular, highlights the importance of education in sparking interest in entrepreneurship and innovation among girls and young women. By showcasing examples of women leading in sectors such as sustainability, we can pave the way for new generations to enter a landscape where female-led entrepreneurship is a real and valid option.

"It is essential to address the gender gap through education, fostering interest from an early age and showcasing examples beyond the conventional."

In this regard, Esther Cid, CEO and founder of Talent Passport, emphasises the importance of early support for girls in STEM fields. By providing role models and access to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, we create an environment where women feel empowered to embark on entrepreneurial journeys and lead innovative projects.

"The key is to support young talent, especially girls, so they become aware of opportunities in STEM and have access to female role models and leadership roles."

Inês Oliveira, Head of Innovation Services at Wayra Spain, broadens this perspective to highlight the need for balanced representation at all levels of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Beyond increasing the number of women leading businesses, it is also essential to see them as investors, mentors, and key players in innovation. This would contribute to a structural shift that fosters greater equity.

"It is crucial to ensure balance among all players in the ecosystem. We do not just need more female entrepreneurs, but also more women at every level of the ecosystem."

Taryn Andersen, CEO and co-founder of Impulse4Women, focuses on the need for public policies that demystify women's role in work-life balance. She stresses that work-life balance should not be the sole responsibility of women, and that policies supporting families in general, as well as female entrepreneurs, can facilitate greater participation of women in the business world.

"We need to transform the perception that work-life balance is solely the responsibility of women, promoting policies that support families and female entrepreneurs."

Nera González, Ambassador of Technovation Girls Madrid, advocates for valuing diversity as a competitive advantage in entrepreneurial ecosystems. By integrating diversity at all levels, not only is a more inclusive environment created, but innovation is enhanced, leading to better business performance.

"It is crucial for entrepreneurial ecosystems to value diversity as a competitive advantage."

These expert voices highlight the need for a cultural, educational, and structural transformation to make female entrepreneurship a reality. Innovation, sustainability, and diversity must be fundamental pillars in this process.

At this moment, we have the opportunity to promote gender equality in entrepreneurship and create a more inclusive and equitable environment. Collaboration and equality policies will be essential in building a dynamic, innovative, and truly competitive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

In the Content section of the ONE Platform, you can find more resources on the role of women in Spain's entrepreneurial ecosystem, such as the report Women and Innovation – 2024 Report, the infographic Women and Men in the Workplace: Key Gender Gaps, or the post Five Stories of Female Entrepreneurs Who Are Changing the World.