[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]By Janet Gericke

The rise of female entrepreneurship is reshaping the business and franchising landscapes. Although full equality remains elusive, women are steadily claiming their place as leaders. The number of successful women-owned businesses has surged, with over 111 million women running businesses as of the 2016/17 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report. This figure has likely grown substantially since.

Data from Bizee (formerly IncFile) highlights that women-owned businesses in the U.S. have risen by 114% over two decades. Additionally, female entrepreneurship growth outpaces men by 22% annually. The World Bank reports that globally, a third of businesses are female-owned, with this share rising in middle- and high-income countries. In the U.S., 31% of small businesses and franchises are female-owned.

Genevieve Allen, Founder of Club Engage, notes that women often leave corporate jobs due to limited flexibility and hierarchical barriers. “Owning your business gives you control over your time and destiny,” she says. The Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) 2023 database shows a 43% increase in franchise systems since 2019, opening more opportunities for women.

Allen emphasises growth potential in sectors like childcare, education, and training, which currently account for 7% of the franchise market. Despite progress, only 30% of franchisors are women, a figure unchanged since 2019. However, women hold 29% of top management roles in South Africa, surpassing the global average.

Franchising offers an appealing model for women, with 89% of franchisees breaking even within their first year—well above the average timeline for new businesses. Allen believes women thrive in franchises when they leverage their strengths in leadership, business development, and effective delegation.

FASA’s 2023 report highlights increasing franchise ownership among previously disadvantaged groups: 32% African, 10% Indian, and 9% Coloured ownership. Though gaps remain, particularly in funding, women are steadily driving innovation and sustainability.

Lucette Kanyama, a Club Engage franchisee, shares that her maternal instincts positively impact her business, though she faces unique challenges, such as assumptions about offering services for free. Such perceptions underscore the resilience and professionalism required of women entrepreneurs.

Sasha-Lee de Bod Smith, Director at Franchising Plus, stresses that franchising thrives on adaptability. “Good franchisors rely on entrepreneurial flair to overcome challenges,” she says. Franchising provides proven models and brand recognition, offering a relatively low-risk path for women.

Organisations like the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) are committed to increasing funding for women-led businesses and fostering executive-level inclusion. Women now lead about a quarter of businesses in Africa, playing a crucial role in driving economic growth and innovation.

Allen concludes, “Representation matters. Once successful examples are in place, perceptions shift, paving the way for more women to thrive.”
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