'Far too low': Number of female entrepreneurs in Belgium grows slowly

'Far too low': Number of female entrepreneurs in Belgium grows slowly
Minister Eleonore Simonet. Credit: Belga/Nicolas Maeterlinck

The number of female entrepreneurs in Belgium is increasing slowly, according to recent figures from the Ministry of Economy.

The percentage of female self-employed workers increased from 33.7% in 2007 to 35.6% in 2023. The Ministry believes the gender gap will continue to narrow, as female self-employed workers are generally younger than their male counterparts. For instance, 12% are under 30 years old and 23.9% are between 30 and 40 years old.

However, the number of women starting businesses decreased in 2023. This decline was attributed to the worsening economic climate. Women entrepreneurs are primarily active in the liberal professions and trade sectors.

Despite the slow growth, Belgium performs better than its neighbouring countries. Belgium ranks seventh, above the EU average and higher than France, Luxembourg, and Germany, according to the Ministry.

Helpers are included in the number of self-employed individuals. A helper is a person who assists or replaces a self-employed worker in their activities without being bound by an employment contract.

The figures were described as "far too low" by the Minister of Small Businesses, Self-Employed and SMEs, Eléonore Simonet (MR).

"The world of entrepreneurship is still too often a 'man’s affair', with only 36% active female self-employed individuals," Simonet said "It is vital that we change this. No woman should have to choose between her family and her professional future."

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