Members' Business — S6M-03137 Michelle Thomson: Women in Business

That the Parliament acknowledges what it sees as the vital role played by women in business, including in the Falkirk East constituency; believes that diversity in business leadership is vital for a healthy economy; notes reports that female entrepreneurs and business leaders often face particular barriers in accessing finance and investment; recognises what it sees as the pioneering research undertaken by Women’s Enterprise Scotland; understands that the research shows that women reportedly start their businesses with 53% less capital than men do, ask for 30% less funding and consequently, it believes, are often hugely under-capitalised from the outset; further understands that, according to the research, only 14% of all capital raised went to women-led businesses, and that less than 15% of the UK’s business angels are women; notes the initiatives taken by the Scottish Government to support and promote women in business, and further notes the growing recognition that removing barriers to women will enhance leadership, decision making, ethics and performance in the business community.