THE RISE OF FEMALE FOUNDERS: EMPOWERING CHANGE AND RESHAPING BRANDS
We are witnessing a remarkable transformation in the organisational landscape, as a surge of female founders has emerged, bringing with them a unique perspective and feminine energy. From 2009 to 2019, there was an increase from 9% to 21% of businesses in the US with at least one female founder (source: Crunchbase), and that was before the pandemic.
This shift is reshaping the meaning and face of brands, not only generating considerable revenue, but fostering community, driving social impact, addressing global issues, and challenging long-standing taboos surrounding female health and work-life balance. Here, we celebrate the rise of female founders, highlighting the profound positive changes they are driving.
Empowering change through diversity:
The rise of female founders signifies a fundamental shift towards diversity and inclusivity [like my client Melina Cordero]. By breaking through gender barriers, women are dismantling the stereotypical notions associated with entrepreneurship, injecting a bold voice into the business world. Their unique experiences and perspectives foster collective and collaborative approaches, resulting in innovative solutions and fostering a more inclusive work environment.
Reshaping the meaning of brand:
Female founders are redefining what it means to build a brand. They infuse feminine energy, which emphasises empathy, nurturing, and compassion, into their businesses and organisations. This new approach prioritises authentic connections with customers and the team, promoting trust, and building long-term relationships. By emphasising values such as sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical practices, female-led brands are reshaping the marketplace, where purpose and profit can coexist harmoniously. This is embedded deeply in our own beliefs at Brand by Boudica.
Driving revenue and economic growth:
Increased numbers of female founders is fuelling economic growth and generating significant revenue. According to research, companies founded by women tend to achieve higher returns on investment, showcasing their strong business sense and ability to drive profitability. By tapping into untapped markets and addressing the needs of diverse consumer segments, female-led businesses are capturing new opportunities, unlocking economic potential, and expanding market share.
Fostering community and social impact:
Female founders recognise the power of community and collaboration. They create platforms that bring people together, foster meaningful connections, and provide support networks [like my own Girls That Get Sh*t Done!]. These initiatives empower women, enabling them to share knowledge, resources, and opportunities, as well as much needed support in their business journey. Through their businesses, female founders are championing social impact, addressing issues such as gender equality, social justice, environmental sustainability, and access to education. Their brands serve as catalysts for positive change, bringing a sense of purpose beyond mere profitability.
Addressing taboos and female health:
Female founders are fearlessly addressing long-standing taboos surrounding female health. By embracing a bold voice and promoting open dialogue, they are breaking barriers and raising awareness about critical issues such as reproductive health, menstruation, menopause, and maternal well-being [like my client The One Tribe, serving those on the journey of motherhood]. Through innovative products, services, and educational initiatives, female-led businesses are empowering women to prioritise their health, destigmatising these topics, and creating a more informed and supportive society.
Changing ‘work-life balance’ and flexibility:
Female founders are challenging traditional notions of perceived work-life balance. They understand the importance of holistic well-being and promote flexibility in the workplace. By embracing remote work, flexible hours, and supportive policies, they create environments that prioritise the mental, emotional, and physical health of their employees. Through their actions, female-led businesses pave the way for a more inclusive and harmonious approach to work, nurturing a healthier work-life balance for all.
Want the science?
Female brains have a larger capacity and activity in their prefrontal cortex, known as the executive brain. It’s why they make better leaders – they are better at forethought, decision making, collaboration and empathy.
So the welcomed rise of female founders represents a transformative force within the business world. Their bold voice, feminine energy, collective spirit, and collaborative approach are empowering change, reshaping brands, driving revenue, fostering community, addressing global issues, and challenging taboos. By championing diversity, inclusivity, and social impact, female founders are creating a business landscape that is more empathetic, sustainable, and supportive. Let us celebrate their achievements and continue to amplify their voices, as they pave the way for a more balanced and prosperous future.
Some other amazing female-founders I’ve had the pleasure of working with:
The Ruth Foundation for the Arts
Alicia M Rodriguez
Meet Margo
TaskHer
One Wild Life Design
Little French Retreat
Tricres
MichelleAB
Meloosha Homecare