Five ways to solve the funding gap for women entrepreneurs

From Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg to General Motors ' Mary Barra, a growing number of women are at the top of the company's leadership position. Today, however, women account for only 14.6% per cent of executive positions, and this phenomenon continues in the group of female entrepreneurs and small business owners, especially when it comes to raising money. According to Kaufman's findings, male entrepreneurs are twice times more likely to be in the hands of women entrepreneurs at the start of their business. Most importantly, in small business loans, women entrepreneurs earn only 4.4% of the total. Why is the problem of funding gaps still bothering women entrepreneurs? Probably because women are less willing to take risks. Seeking funding is always a touchy topic, and women entrepreneurs are also concerned that the cycle of capital cycles can take up time with their families. While the difficulties will widen the funding gap, every entrepreneur needs money to keep the business running. As a female entrepreneur, don't let the data prevent you from actively seeking funding. Here are five tips to help you get the money you need to start a business: 1. Expand your fundraising horizons fundraising does not always take the form of venture capital or equity financing, and there are a number of options, such as bank loans, public financing, credit, and SME authority loans. Actively learn all possible sources of funding, and then choose a way to fit in with your needs. 2. Entrepreneurs who have strong networks with other women in the business community tend to have more resources and better access to funding. Some women's social organizations, such as Ellevate, can meet business expansion needs, provide financial advice and internship opportunities. Work with other business women, and if you are able to guide others, please stand up. 3. What changes do you want to see in the business environment in the commercial environment? You can (and should) be an advocate. When you're looking for funding opportunities, support other women entrepreneurs and institutions that advocate women's involvement in business. For example, Senator Maria Cantwell and the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Commission recently proposed a 2014 bill on the ownership of women's small businesses. The bill has been widely praised for increasing the amount of credit, business counseling and training for women entrepreneurs. 4. Seek the support of business and government don't let big companies scare you. Now famous brands like American Express are building support programs for women entrepreneurs by providing useful content, forums and even training camps. The government is also reserving contracts and funds for minority species, veterans and businesses founded by women. 5, do not give yourself a handicap Facebook's chief operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg is known for promoting women's self-confidence. Sandberg says women leaders often set themselves up for themselves by underestimating their abilities and goals. Cautious attitude can be obtained in some commercial areasBe successful, but when it comes to raising money, you need to be in touch with the source of the money in a winning attitude. (Viaentrepreneur, exclusive compilation, reprint, please indicate the source)