CPME Highlights Economic Barriers and Glass Ceiling for Women Entrepreneurs in France

The Confédération des petites et moyennes entreprises (CPME) has spotlighted the significant economic hurdles faced by women entrepreneurs in France. Women currently lead 26% of active businesses but account for only 12.45% of the total turnover generated by French companies outside of large enterprises, underscoring a substantial gender gap in economic contribution.

A major obstacle is the limited access to both public and private financing. According to Fariha Shah, CPME vice-president, projects led by women are often undervalued in terms of capital, particularly in innovative sectors, producing a financing bias against female-led initiatives. This systemic underfunding results in an annual cost to the French economy estimated at €221 billion.

The CPME calls for a paradigm shift in attitudes toward female entrepreneurship, urging the adoption of tailored financing solutions and the establishment of a specific legal status for women entrepreneurs within public support programs. These measures aim to dismantle the existing "economic glass ceiling" and unlock the potential of women-led enterprises, promoting greater economic equality and growth in France.