AUSSIE WOMEN LEADING THE WAY IN SMALL BUSINESS

Online retailer, Bits of Australia is calling for the achievements of Australian women in small business to be recognised and supported, as the number of women starting businesses continues to grow and they become significant contributors to the local economy, ahead of International Women’s Day on Tuesday 8 March

Micaela Smith, Founder and Director of Bits of Australia said that about 70% of her suppliers and designers were successful and inspiring women working independently or operating a small business, but more acknowledgement and support was needed to enable them to innovate and grow their business. 

“As a female owned and operated business, we experience the benefits and rewards, as well as the challenges and barriers first-hand. We also get to hear from our many suppliers and they tell us work-life-balance and self-confidence, access to finance, business knowledge and resources are some of their biggest issues,” Ms Smith said. 

“While our core business at Bits of Australia is about championing Australian-made products and businesses, we also want to help increase awareness and influence change for the many other issues affecting us and our suppliers.”

“Bits of Australia will aim to celebrate and highlight these achievements more often and encourage and support women in business to grow their personal and professional confidence and skills. Combined, we have many years of valuable business experiences, successes and stories to share,” Ms Smith explained.

Small business plays an important role in the economy, employing around 4.5 million people and driving innovation in Australia. According to a recent ABS report[1], the number of women business operators in Australia has increased by 46% in the last decade (compared to just 27% for male business owners) and they now make up over a third (34%) of all business operators.

International Women’s Day is an annual event that aims to recognise and celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world, while increasing awareness and calling for action and progress towards gender equality.

Bits of Australia was launched in April 2014 and is a leading online supplier of boutique Australian made gifts and souvenirs. In support of women in small business, Bits of Australia will aim to:

·       Partner with and support women business owners in the Australian gift and souvenir industry

·       Celebrate the achievements, success and unique role that women play in business and society

·       Increase awareness and help champion the challenges and barriers for women in businesses

Visit www.bitsofaustralia.com.au for more information.

ENDS