Career aspiration: Entrepreneur? In Germany, more and more women are starting their own businesses—but judging by the numbers, founding a business is still a male domain. Only one in three companies is run by a woman, and the number is even lower for startups.
However, the development shows that there is potential for female entrepreneurs and this is precisely why the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in 2014 the initiative “WOMEN do business” launched.
Successful female entrepreneurs act as role models and multipliers, encouraging women to pursue professional independence and inspiring girls to pursue entrepreneurship. The initiative aims to increase the visibility of female entrepreneurs. The program has now been extended by one year until September 2017.
Innovative formats developed
Since the launch of "FRAUEN unternehmen" (Women in Business) in October 2014, over 320 events have been planned and implemented. Around 180 female entrepreneurs have also been recruited as role models, sharing their own experiences about their own self-employment. Part of the initiative included numerous visits to schools, universities, and training institutions, offering internships, and participating in events organized by chambers of commerce, trade fairs, and economic development agencies. The entrepreneurs have also developed new, innovative formats, reaching numerous women and girls interested in starting their own businesses.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Sigmar Gabriel commented on the extension of the initiative as follows:
"The commitment of these exemplary female entrepreneurs is impressive. As role models, they make an active and important contribution to fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship in Germany. Too few women still choose to become self-employed; only one in three companies is founded by a woman. To inspire more girls and women to pursue entrepreneurship, we are extending our successful 'WOMEN in business' initiative. Role models are the best way to convey the great opportunities and scope for shaping the future of women."
