Female business owners feel they are financially insecure

For female entrepreneurs, many of whom already report low levels of financial security, not acting early can have a knock-on effect

Sun, 12 Oct, 2025 - 13:58

John Daly

A significant number of female business owners across Ireland do not feel financially secure, with fewer than one in three confident that their business could withstand a financial shock.

A recent survey by AIB of female entrepreneurs and small business owners uncovered a deep sense of financial vulnerability, despite high levels of ambition and resilience.

Over half said they don’t feel financially secure, while almost 30% believe their business would have to shut down entirely if they, as the owner, were unable to work.

The research points to a stark contrast between personal and business financial planning. While 73% of respondents have a personal pension in place, only 30% have established a pension plan through their business.

Additionally, 81% of respondents say they do not feel prepared for retirement, and 62% express a need for help with retirement planning but many cite a lack of time and confidence as key obstacles.

“These findings show that while female business owners are incredibly driven and focused on growth, many are doing so without a financial safety net. There’s a clear responsibility for financial institutions to offer the kind of advice and support that is truly relevant to their day-to-day realities and helps secure their financial future,” said Ciara Ryan, head of wealth at AIB.

For female entrepreneurs, many of whom already report low levels of financial security, not acting early can have a knock-on effect, making it even more critical to put proactive measures in place now.

Even among those who do have pensions, uncertainty remains: 36% are unsure how much income their pension will provide, and 20% have not made any retirement plan at all.

“Financial confidence goes beyond numbers. It’s about feeling secure, supported, and understood. There is a strong appetite for financial guidance. Business owners want to build security for the future, but many simply don’t know where to start. When every penny counts, the idea of investing in wealth products or retirement planning can feel out of reach, especially without clear, tailored advice.”

The findings also highlight a pressing need for accessible, trusted, and tailored financial support, particularly for women navigating the challenges of running smaller businesses. While 7 in 10 have sought personal financial advice, just 52% have done the same for their business.

However, nearly all respondents said they would be open to it, with 95% of respondents saying they would seek it for themselves personally and 90% for their business, if the advice was tailored to their needs.

Despite these concerns, the research paints a hopeful picture. 72% are focused on growing their business and increasing revenue, while 47% are interested in seeking additional funding or investment over the next 12 months. Just over a third (35%) aim to plan more effectively for retirement and 54% want to become more financially secure.

The study was carried out in February 2025 and surveyed 148 members of AwakenHub and Network Ireland, organisations that support female entrepreneurs and business leaders across Ireland.

Sinead Crowley, co-founder of AwakenHub and AwakenAngels, said: “These findings illustrate a critical intersection between ambition and vulnerability in female entrepreneurship. At AwakenHub, we consistently see women pushing boundaries and driving innovation, yet this research reveals an undercurrent of financial insecurity linked to a historical absence of women talking about and feeling confident to own their financial health and wealth.

"The fact that over half of the respondents don't feel financially secure is significant. We need a collaborative approach bringing together financial institutions, support networks, and policymakers to create tailored solutions that address both the practical and psychological barriers women face in building financial resilience. By empowering female entrepreneurs, we're not just securing individual futures, we're investing in Ireland's economic diversity and strength.”

Amy O’Sullivan, president of Network Ireland, said: “At Network Ireland, we work closely with women in business across every sector and stage of their journey, and financial security is a recurring concern. These findings highlight a stark reality: many women, despite their talent and drive, don’t feel secure in their financial futures.

"This is not just a personal challenge; it’s a systemic one. Through collaboration with partners like AIB and initiatives like this research, we’re committed to breaking down barriers and championing practical, confidence-building support. When we equip women with the financial tools and knowledge they need, we unlock not just their potential, but a stronger, more resilient economy.”