Latin America and the Caribbean are regions known for their vibrant cultures and dynamic business environments. While they have given rise to numerous successful businesses and entrepreneurs, there is a growing movement that is reshaping the business landscape – female entrepreneurship. In this article, we will explore the rise of female entrepreneurship in Latin America, the motivations driving women to start their own companies, and the challenges they face in a predominantly male-dominated business world.
Unicorns and Visionaries
Latin America has become home to some of the world’s most valuable unicorn companies, including Kavak in Mexico and Rappi in Colombia. These companies have not only garnered international attention but have also played a significant role in establishing the region as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. In 2023, Mexico’s business magnate Carlos Slim stood as the richest person in Latin America, followed by Iris Fontbona from Chile, who became the third wealthiest individual in the region. Iris Fontbona, a mining magnate and billionaire businesswoman, has paved the way for a new generation of female entrepreneurs in Latin America.
Motivations Behind Female Entrepreneurship
What motivates women to venture into entrepreneurship in a region where the business landscape is traditionally male-dominated? Several factors drive women to start their entrepreneurial journeys. The COVID-19 pandemic, which had a significant financial impact, forced many individuals to reevaluate their career choices. In 2021, six Latin American countries saw more than 81 percent of their female entrepreneurs starting businesses out of necessity due to a lack of better employment options. The necessity-driven entrepreneurship rate was higher for women compared to men, with Argentina and Costa Rica registering the largest gender differences in this regard.
However, necessity isn’t the only motivator. In Brazil, for example, around 46 percent of female startup founders possessed specialization degrees, encouraging them to open businesses in their areas of expertise.
Overcoming Gender-Based Barriers
While starting a business is a challenging endeavor for anyone, female entrepreneurs in Latin America face additional hurdles related to their gender. One significant challenge is securing funding. Investment for startups founded by women in the region declined from 14 million U.S. dollars to zero between 2019 and 2020, while male-founded startups received over 3.8 billion U.S. dollars in funding during the same period.
Moreover, the gender gap index in Latin America reveals that women in countries like Uruguay, the Dominican Republic, and Brazil have approximately 30 percent fewer opportunities than men in education, the economy, health, and politics. The representation of Latin American women in leadership roles within businesses remains below 40 percent in most countries, with the exception of Colombia. These disparities contribute to women being less inclined to engage in early-stage entrepreneurial activities compared to men.
The Path Forward
Despite the challenges, women in Latin America are making significant strides in entrepreneurship. They are breaking barriers, reshaping industries, and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. However, achieving true gender equality in the entrepreneurial sphere still requires substantial change. Encouragingly, initiatives, such as access to funding, mentorship programs, and educational opportunities, are emerging to support female entrepreneurs in the region. By addressing these challenges head-on and fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, Latin America can harness the full potential of its female entrepreneurs, creating a brighter and more equitable future for all.