In the Bay of Plenty, the entrepreneurial spirit of women is thriving. In 2023, women-owned businesses accounted for about 31% of all small businesses in our region—a testament to the hard work and determination of female entrepreneurs.

Even more impressive, over 50% of new business registrations in Tauranga came from women, reflecting a vibrant surge of innovation and leadership. 

Networking has become a crucial part of this growth. Participation in business networking events, like the Bay of Plenty Business Women’s Network, has jumped by over 20% in the last two years. This increase not only highlights the importance of connection and collaboration but also creates a supportive community where women can share their experiences and insights. 

However, challenges remain. A significant 45% of women business owners in the Bay of Plenty report difficulties in accessing capital, compared to 30% of their male counterparts. This disparity underscores the need for ongoing advocacy and support for female entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the resources to succeed. 

On a positive note, the gender pay gap in the Bay of Plenty stands at 8.9%, slightly lower than the national average. This is a step in the right direction, but there’s still work to be done to achieve true equity. 

As we celebrate these achievements, let’s continue to lift each other up and advocate for equal opportunities in business. Together, we can pave the way for future generations of women leaders in the Bay of Plenty. Your voice matters, and your success inspires others—let’s keep pushing boundaries and breaking barriers! 

Note: Information taken from Figure.NZ