International Women’s Day, recognised globally on 8 March, celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of women.
This year’s theme is Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress and examines the pathways to greater economic inclusion for women.
40% of South Australia’s business owners are women, and the number of businesses owned by women in South Australia is more than the national average.
A state-wide survey and engagement with the small business community in 2022 revealed that 43 per cent of women business owners faced specific barriers, including gender bias, inequitable access to growth opportunities, and challenges accessing upskilling opportunities while balancing caregiving duties.
The South Australian Government’s $4 million Women in Business program supports women starting, running and growing a business.
Since the program was launched in November 2022, more than 1,000 women have participated in four key streams:
- The Women in Business Advisory Program
– delivered by behind closed doors, aimed at high-growth businesses seeking to improve their cooperate governance, establish an advisory board, expand or become export-ready.
- TheWomen in Business Foundations Program
– delivered by Adelaide Business Hub, supporting women through capability building opportunities, including mentorship, small group workshops and events.
- Connecting Women in Business – supported by four delivery partners across metro and regional SA, designed for women to come together to connect, share experiences and grow their contacts.
- HERstory: Business Collective event series, a partnership with the Port Adelaide Football Club, which delivered a suite of networking and professional development opportunities to support women business owners to achieve their growth ambitions.
