Sweden reports slow progress in gender equality for entrepreneurship

New studies from Tillväxtanalys reveal that gender equality in Swedish entrepreneurship is progressing slowly. The proportion of companies led by women rose from approximately 27 percent in 2008 to nearly 29 percent in 2023, but growth has largely stagnated since the mid-2010s.

Research highlights significant geographical disparities, with female business leaders being more concentrated in metropolitan and densely populated areas. The studies also emphasize that women face distinct challenges in scaling businesses, particularly regarding access to capital. While women drive diverse sectors including technology, health, and green industries, they receive a disproportionately small share of both public and private financing. Since 2017, companies founded by women have received approximately one percent of Swedish venture capital.

In response to these findings, political discussions have emerged regarding the need for better access to regional business support. Proposals include strengthening the mandate for Almi to provide loans and counseling to women, improving access to business networks, and ensuring small local businesses can more easily participate in public procurement.