Almost one in three women running their own business believe they are not taken seriously by investors, according to new research commissioned by AXA UK.
The study, based on responses from 500 female entrepreneurs, found that 21% feel it is harder for them to succeed than their male counterparts. Among those, 22% cited limited access to funding and investment as a key barrier.
Gender bias remains a prevalent concern, with 59% identifying it as one of the top challenges they face. Other commonly reported obstacles include balancing personal and professional commitments (29%), stereotypical assumptions around ‘emotional’ versus ‘rational’ decision-making (42%), and difficulty finding a supportive team (26%).
The research was released alongside AXA UK’s Women in Business Report, which explores the barriers encountered by women entrepreneurs and includes case studies from female business owners. The study coincides with the insurer’s annual AXA Startup Angel competition, which offers two new businesses a £25,000 grant, a year’s free business insurance, mentoring from four established SME owners, access to a mental health webinar provided by AXA Health, and a 50% discount on a business health policy.
AXA UK small business insurance director Mike Crane said that while progress has been made in recent years, many women still face unequal conditions. He added that AXA is committed to supporting new business owners through funding and guidance opportunities.
Other challenges highlighted in the study include the underrepresentation of women in senior roles (28%), social pressure relating to appearance and behaviour (25%), and unequal recognition for professional contributions (26%).
Despite the difficulties, 48% of respondents said running their own business allowed them more flexibility to spend time with family, while 43% felt it set a positive example for their children. Nearly a fifth (19%) said they launched a business to empower other women and foster diversity, and 15% aimed to contribute to their local communities.
One in five participants reported feeling undervalued in previous roles, and 21% believe there is more financial risk involved for women in business.
AXA’s findings suggest gender-related challenges remain significant for many women entrepreneurs, despite wider changes in the business environment.
