Economists predict that by the end of the century, women will own 50 percent of the nation's businesses. Owning a business can be especially appealing to women because of the possibilities it offers for female leadership, financial security, a flexible work environment and a nonsexist workplace. An additional advantage is that many women's lives have prepared them for some aspects of business ownership, such as detail management or working with people.
Women starting businesses do face some special hurdles.
Some women feel uneasy about the assertiveness required to run a successful business. They may be uncomfortable publicizing themselves, managing employees or seeking out funds. Many women don't have the same casual business contacts and networks as men. They are less likely to know bankers, lawyers and other businesspeople. Women are more likely to have substantial home responsibilities that make it harder to run a business.