Entrepreneurship: It’s Becoming a Mom’s World

Women own nearly half of the privately held businesses in the U.S., says the Center for Women’s Business Research. That translates to over 10.5 million businesses that generate over $2.5 trillion, the Center reports. For many women – particularly moms – the flexibility that comes with owning their own business is becoming more and more appealing.

The Center also reports that one in 11 adult women is an entrepreneur. “Women business owners have a different style to leading and growing a business. They tend to build relationships and understand the importance of work-life balance, which is extremely important to business owners who are also working mothers,” Jeff Gordon, a Pickering area consultant with The Entrepreneur’s Source.

As research indicates, women are more likely to listen to the expertise of others, including consultants and experts in order to help build and grow their business.

Melanie Bergeron is the president and Chief Operating Officer of Two Men and a Truck and says that one of the most important things for entrepreneur mothers is having a strong support network.

“An entrepreneur mom needs a strong support person that can help them balance their family/work life,” Bergeron says. “It's no surprise that a new entrepreneur needs to spend an enormous amount of time in the beginning developing their business. My advice would be to set a goal of not working more than 40 hours a week, outsource and delegate as much work as you can afford to do, being part of a franchise System may help you with the support you need.”

With more and more new businesses starting every day and finding the proper fit is critical to a business’ success – and the business owner’s personal satisfaction. For many women, the motivation to become an entrepreneur is find a better work/life balance, so finding the right business is very important, Gordon explains.

Many moms are starting businesses that are family friendly in nature. Business such as childcare centers, preschools or educational programs can all be a good fit for a working mom.

“One of the greatest advantages to owning your own business is the flexibility. You become your own boss, so the things that are important to you – such as on-site childcare or flex hours – are up to you to decide,” Gordon explains.

Gordon uses a unique "discovery process" that allows people to explore business options -- and uncover possibilities that are in sync with both their personal and income goals.

“The most important thing in this process – for anyone, including moms – is finding what motivates them, understand their goals, needs and expectations,” Gordon says.