Female Entrepreneurs Emphasize Human Connection as Key to Business Success
A groundbreaking study from Female Founders Rise has uncovered that nearly 80 percent of female entrepreneurs identify human connection as a critical component of their professional livelihood. This research highlights the profound importance of community support, mentorship, and peer networks throughout all stages of a business career.
The Power of Networks in Combating Isolation
Among survey respondents, 39 percent cited peer networks as the most beneficial resource for their career advancement. Notably, one in seven entrepreneurs reported that having a robust network significantly reduced feelings of isolation and accelerated business growth. Others found that these connections facilitated better access to private finance, underscoring the multifaceted advantages of strong professional relationships.
Joanna Jensen, co-author of the study and chair of the EIS Association, emphasized the value of shared experiences. “Shared experience shortens learning curves and unlocks growth,” she stated. “If we want more successful founders, the entire eco-system has a responsibility to open more doors to expertise much faster.”
Persistent Challenges of Loneliness and Mental Health
Despite the benefits of networking, 14 percent of female entrepreneurs still identified loneliness and isolation as their primary challenge. Some participants reported losing their existing networks or struggling to establish new ones. Over a quarter of respondents acknowledged suffering from mental health pressures, including burnout and self-doubt, with founders from both small and large businesses admitting to feelings of isolation.
Emmie Faust, founder of Female Founders Rise, commented on the unique struggles faced by entrepreneurs. “Being an entrepreneur is a unique experience and without the right mentors or a peer network it can be deeply isolating,” she explained. “The support, the opening of doors and willingness to share critical learnings have potential to make a difference to whether a business survives or not.”
Funding Barriers and Financial Insecurity
Access to funding remains a significant hurdle for many female entrepreneurs. While some women successfully secured financing through their networks, nearly half pointed to financial insecurity as their biggest barrier. Key issues included:
- Difficulties in accessing funding
- Challenges from bootstrapping
- Cash flow management problems
- Struggles to attract investors
- Achieving sustainable revenue streams
The report revealed that only two percent of venture capital capital is allocated to female-founded businesses. A quarter of respondents described raising private capital as a time-consuming process that often diverted attention from core business operations. Additionally, 30 percent criticized the complexity and bureaucracy of accessing public funding, while 29 percent highlighted inclusivity issues, feeling excluded by opaque eligibility criteria and processes favoring well-resourced organizations.
Sam White, head of SME Business Banking at Barclays, underscored the importance of support systems. “When women are backed by the right networks, support and opportunities… the potential is huge,” he noted.
Defining Long-Term Success
Beyond immediate challenges, over 50 percent of female entrepreneurs cited stability and profitability as foundational to business success. This encompasses consistent revenue generation, wealth creation, and long-term security for both themselves and their teams. Nearly 40 percent equated success with scaling their businesses to achieve an exit or acquisition.
However, many also emphasized the importance of work-life balance, flexibility, and creating positive work environments as essential elements of a thriving business. These factors highlight a holistic approach to entrepreneurship that values both professional achievement and personal well-being.
