If more sole proprietorships were owned by women, the economy would benefit—this is the conclusion of the “Women in Business” study conducted by IMAS International on behalf of Rzetelna Firma and the National Debt Register. The greatest advantages would include greater adherence to labor rights, increased environmental awareness, and a reduction in the gender pay gap.
The study surveyed business owners and managers from the SME sector, with the sample carefully selected to ensure a nearly equal number of male and female respondents.
“In each of the 14 aspects studied, a significant group of respondents—between 32% and 42%—believe that the gender of business owners does not matter to the economy. However, in all cases, a larger percentage of respondents believe that an increased number of women leading micro-enterprises would be beneficial to the economy. This indicates that we are not fully utilizing the potential of women’s talents and skills,” comments Sandra Czerwińska, an expert at Rzetelna Firma.
More Women in Business: Enthusiasts and Skeptics
An increased number of women in SMEs would have the most positive impact on reducing the gender pay gap (59% of responses), ensuring greater compliance with labor rights (58%), promoting environmental responsibility (56%), and supporting local communities (55%).
Women’s influence would also extend to reducing payment backlogs and increasing business trust (50% each), decreasing the number of legal disputes between companies (49%), and accelerating economic growth (48%).
While the belief in women’s positive impact on the economy dominates, some skepticism remains. The percentage of respondents who think that a higher number of women in business would have negative effects ranges from 8% to 16%. The biggest concern (16%) relates to the impact of female entrepreneurs on economic growth and tax revenues. Additionally, 15% doubt that their presence would reduce legal disputes, while 14% do not believe women’s involvement would improve economic competitiveness or increase employment rates.
Diversity Benefits Business
The 2024 report “Business in High Heels” by the Polish Economic Institute highlights that women still remain a minority in corporate leadership—only 25% of board members in Poland are women. Even fewer choose to start their own businesses—13% compared to 23% of men. However, businesses run by women are often perceived as more socially responsible and communicative.
“Increasing gender diversity among sole proprietors could improve business management quality and competitiveness. Women as leaders tend to adhere more to ethical standards and punctuality, which fosters trust in business. Furthermore, a growing number of female business owners could help reduce the pay gap and promote eco-friendly initiatives,” says Sandra Czerwińska.
Responsible, Punctual, and Communicative
Similar findings emerge from reports on Europe and the world. According to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development’s “Women on Boards” study, diversity in corporate boards leads to higher profitability and greater employee satisfaction.
The Rzetelna Firma study indicates that female business owners are rated more highly in corporate social responsibility, punctuality, and communication. Increasing their presence in company boards could enhance efficiency and improve the public perception of business in Poland.
“Gender balance in business is not just a matter of social justice but also an economic choice. Data shows that diversity in leadership enhances economic competitiveness and the ability to innovate. Therefore, we should encourage women to start businesses—not only in retail or beauty salons but also in industries that leverage new technologies,” says Sandra Czerwińska.
About the Study
The “Women in Business” study was conducted in October 2024 by IMAS International on behalf of Rzetelna Firma. The survey included 407 entrepreneurs from the SME sector, including board members, business owners, and mid-to-senior-level managers.
