Women in business have come a long way, but let’s be real, the journey is still anything but easy. From breaking into exclusive networks to securing funding, from managing family commitments to battling imposter syndrome, the challenges are real. But guess what? So is our resilience. Let’s talk about the biggest hurdles we, as women entrepreneurs, still face; and more importantly, how we can tackle them head-on to shape the future of business.
Breaking into the Right Networks
Business is built on connections, but for women, those doors haven’t always been open. The “Boys’ Club” still exists, and many key deals happen behind closed doors.
But here’s the game-changer: women-led networks.
I’ve seen firsthand how women supporting women changes everything. At Indian Women Network (IWN), we’ve built a space where female entrepreneurs can collaborate, grow, and win, without waiting for permission to join outdated circles. Your network is your net worth. Build it wisely.
The Funding Gap & Gender Bias
Women-led businesses statistically generate higher returns, yet, only 4% of VC funding in the MENA region goes to female founders.
Many women have to bootstrap longer than their male counterparts due to gender bias in investment decisions. Loans and funding are still harder to access, making financial growth a steeper climb.
What can we do?
- Tap into women-focused funding initiatives like She Wins Arabia & DBWC grants.
- Seek mentorship from angel investors & experienced entrepreneurs.
- Leverage crowdfunding & community-driven support.
We deserve a seat at the table. If the table doesn’t exist, let’s build our own.
Balancing Business & Personal Life
The myth of “having it all” still looms over women. Running a business while managing home, kids, and life is no small feat.
The reality? Work-life balance isn’t a formula, it’s a daily recalibration. Some days, business wins. Some days, family comes first. And that’s okay.
- Automate what you can.
- Delegate without guilt.
- Surround yourself with a support system that understands your journey.
Women entrepreneurs shouldn’t have to choose between business success and personal fulfillment; we can design a life that embraces both.
The Silent Battle: Imposter Syndrome & Fear of Failure
Ever felt like you don’t belong at the table, even when you’ve earned your spot? You’re not alone.
Imposter syndrome is one of the biggest silent struggles for women in business. And on top of that, fear of failure can be overwhelming. Society expects women to fail, which only adds pressure to succeed.
How to Overcome It:
- Celebrate your wins, big or small.
- Set boundaries & delegate responsibilities.
- Remind yourself: You’re here because you EARNED it.
Confidence isn’t about knowing everything, it’s about believing in yourself despite the doubts.
The Future is Female, And We are Just Getting Started
Despite every challenge, women entrepreneurs are rising. More women are starting businesses than ever before, outpacing men in some regions. We’re breaking barriers, innovating industries, and proving that success has no gender.
The best thing we can do?
- Support, uplift, and invest in each other.
- Build strong women-led networks.
- Own our value & ask for what we deserve.
We’re not just participating in business; we’re shaping the future of it. And if history has taught us anything, it’s that when women rise, we rise together.
About the Contributor – Reema Mahajan is a content creator, community builder, and advocate for women’s empowerment. She is the founder of Indian Women in Dubai (IWD), the largest women’s community in the UAE with over 150,000 members. An IIT and IIM graduate, Reema left her corporate career in international management consulting to create a platform that uplifts and connects women, earning recognition as one of the Super 100 Indians in UAE and Asia’s 100 Women Power Leaders.
This contribution is under the International Women’s Day initiative #SheIsInfinite.
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