A forum dedicated to women in business was held in Barcelona, bringing together female leaders and founders from various sectors. Despite notable progress, participants pointed out that the road to entrepreneurship remains fraught with challenges for women. According to recent data, in Catalunya only 18% of new startups created in 2024 and 2025 are led by women. This figure clearly shows that equality in business is still an unattained ideal.
Leadership and Confidence: Why Women Start Up Less Often
Many attendees shared similar experiences: to make themselves heard, women have to be better prepared than men. Before entering the market or negotiating with investors, they strive to perfect their knowledge and skills. As a result, women spend more time preparing to launch projects and take fewer risks in the early stages. This often means that, even with ideas and ambition, many never take that crucial first step.
Stereotypes and Self-Esteem: How Old Attitudes Get in the Way
Experienced female leaders note that projects initiated by women are often seen as secondary—they’re labeled self-employment, not real business ventures. In contrast, male-led startups are immediately granted the status of serious companies. This affects how women present their ideas and how confidently they negotiate. A lack of self-promotion and inner doubt becomes yet another barrier on the road to success.
Team Diversity and Its Impact on Business Processes
Some female entrepreneurs have managed to build teams where nearly half the members are women, and note that this has a positive effect on workplace atmosphere and efficiency. Conflicts in such groups are resolved faster, and tasks are completed more smoothly. However, achieving this balance remains rare—most women still face distrust, especially from investors.
Funding and Honesty: Why Women Receive Less Support
Many observe that women encounter additional skepticism when seeking investments. Transparency and honesty during pitches can sometimes work against them: if a female entrepreneur avoids making unrealistic promises, she risks losing funding. Men, by contrast, are more likely to exaggerate prospects, a trait often seen as a sign of confidence and met with approval.
Key Barriers: Preparation and Fear of Failure
Before launching their own ventures, women tend to seek extra training and strive to meet high standards. This delays their market entry and reduces their chances of securing investment. According to research, almost 40% of Spanish women would like to start a business, but lack of funding remains the main barrier. This is compounded by a constant sense of insecurity, a challenge rarely faced by male entrepreneurs.
