Blog 8: Funding the Dream: How Women Entrepreneurs Tackle Financial Hurdles
Blog 8 in our series on women setting goals
Money can feel like the biggest barrier when you’re starting or growing a small business — and you’re not alone. Many of the women in Voices of Entrepreneurial Women started with little more than passion, resourcefulness, and a willingness to learn.
Here’s what they showed us:
If you’re starting out, have a chat with your accountant to help you create a financial plan. Consider what assets you already have and how you can use them. Remember, rents can be expensive and insurances need consideration.
Start with simple record keeping, your accountant will guide you on what is available. For my author business I keep all my invoices and receipts in a folder and do all the bookkeeping on an Excel spreadsheet for income and expenses. I also have a separate banking account for the business. It’s simple but it’s all i need right now.
Instead of waiting for a big break, they looked for small, practical steps:
Using free or low-cost resources like community workshops, co-working spaces, and library tools
Tapping into grants, scholarships, or small business support — like the woman who started her art supply business with a two-seater sports car and used government assistance to buy a proper work vehicle
Getting creative with accountability and space — one artist kept costs low (and admin tasks on track) by renting a co-working desk until she could afford a studio
Leaning into networks and collaborations — often someone you know has the answer or resource you need.. Look out for opportunities no matter how small they may seem at the time.
Mindset matters too One entrepreneurial artist put it beautifully:
‘Sales is the engine of your business. Instead of selling, think about helping.’
That simple reframe can ease the awkwardness that sometimes comes with putting your work out there.
Don’t be afraid to sell Remember, you have a quality product or service that can help someone.
Another woman’s advice
‘If your business is low capital and mainly needs your time and research, go for it. But if there’s a big capital outlay, be more cautious. You’ve got more to lose.’
And wisdom from the world of retail
‘In retail, you’ve got to have money behind you, don’t do it on a shoestring.’
What’s one small investment you can make in yourself or your business this week?
It can be overwhelming so start one step at a time. Maybe it’s time to book a chat with an accountant. Maybe it’s applying for that grant you’ve been eyeing. Maybe it’s rethinking your relationship with selling. Or maybe it’s reaching out to someone who’s a few steps ahead.
Creativity, courage, and connection matter, but money matters too. You’ve got this :)
