When we picture an entrepreneur, it usually comes with a stereotype: a sharp-suited man with a bold idea, chasing venture capital and scaling fast. But here is the truth: the world doesn’t just need more founders. It needs more female founders.
Because when women build businesses, they don’t just disrupt industries. They reshape how we think about leadership, culture, and growth.
The Funding Gap Is Real and Costly
Let’s start with the numbers. In the UK, businesses founded by women only receive 2p out of every £1 invested. It’s bad economics and doesn’t seem fair. Research shows that if women scaled at the same rate as men, it could add £250 billion to our economy. Imagine what that could mean: more jobs created, industries strengthened, and communities lifted.
The gap isn’t about potential. It’s about access. Women are building brilliant businesses every day, but they simply do not receive the same support.
Overcoming Stereotypes: How Women Lead Differently
Female founders often lead from a place of empathy, creativity, and resilience. They’re more likely to design flexible working cultures, prioritise wellbeing, and create businesses that value people as much as they do profit.
And isn’t that what the future of work needs? Businesses that are sustainable, human-centred, and inclusive, not just fast-growing at any cost.
This has nothing to do with claiming that women make “nicer bosses.” It’s about realising that different leadership breeds different ideas. And fresh ideas are what drive progress.
Proof in Practice
At ABL Recruitment, we know this first-hand. Our founding director, Nicole Debson, started the business 34 years ago when multilingual recruitment was barely recognised. Against the odds and at a time when few agencies were female-led, she trusted her instinct, carved out a niche, and built something extraordinary.
Watch more of Nicole’s story here.
Today, ABL is still proof of what happens when a woman dares to lead. The business has weathered economic shifts, grown internationally, and placed thousands of candidates in roles where language and culture truly matter. Nicole’s journey isn’t the exception. It’s an example of what’s possible when more women get the chance to lead.
Why We Need More Female Founders Now
Leaders who think differently are needed to meet the challenges of the modern economy, which include global skills shortages and the disruption caused by AI. And diversity is the source of difference.
Female founders aren’t “nice-to-have.” They’re essential for building a future that works better for everyone. When women step into entrepreneurship, they do more than just start businesses. They create cultures, communities, and opportunities that ripple far beyond the bottom line.
We’re also proud to share some exciting news: ABL Recruitment has been shortlisted for Female Entrepreneur of the Year at the Great British Business Community Awards 2025. With almost 2,000 nominations this year, being recognised is an honour in itself. This achievement reflects the dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our clients and partners. Winners will be announced on 26th September 2025 at The Crowne Plaza, Marlow, and we couldn’t be prouder to stand among the best in British business.
The Call to Action
If we want stronger economies, more innovation, and fairer workplaces, the answer is simple: we need to back more women. Invest in them. Mentor them. Celebrate their wins loudly.
Because the world doesn’t just need more founders. It needs more female founders. And the sooner we act, the faster we all grow.
