Why More Moms Are Becoming Entrepreneurs

In this month’s issue of Powerline, I had the chance to write about some surprising statistics regarding motherhood and entrepreneurship. Just in case you missed this article in print, check it out here on the ma Blog! Don’t forget to discover more informative articles in the digital version of the Powerline Magazine.

 

The face of the working mother is changing. In the 1970s, only 38 percent of mothers were a part of the work force. Now, 74 percent of moms have joined the working world. Where many women in this demographic once turned to office jobs to earn an income, these days more and more mothers are discovering the advantages of starting their own home-based businesses.

The U.S. Census has estimated that there are more than 15 million female business owners in this country alone. Over 44 percent of self-employed women have children under the age of 18. Women are now starting up small businesses at nearly twice the rate of men. Many of these businesses are home based, and allow for a more flexible schedule that can be molded around the often-hectic lifestyle of a busy mom.

Entrepreneurism is proving to be an outstanding opportunity for mothers to make their own schedules and meet their financial goals. It’s one of the most effective ways for a woman – mother or not – to improve her financial state.

Working moms are already on-the-go experts. They are one of the highest demographics for cell phone spending in the U.S. They are already using mobile shopping applications to cut down on time away from their families and businesses. With their social networks – both online and in person – the working mother demographic is a combination of a powerful shopping network and an incredible business opportunity.

The traditional work-life balance that requires standardized time in an office, away from family, doesn’t have the same appeal as it used to. Not only does running a business from home increase time spent with family members, it also cuts costs for child care. Many mothers have found that it’s easier to arrange for in-home care for their children, whether it’s through a spouse, family member, or childcare professional, during afternoon or evening hours — times that are perfect for holding business meetings or networking with individuals who work daytime jobs.

Entrepreneurism is allowing moms across the U.S. to combine the advantages of being stay-at-home mothers with the income and growth potential of being a business owner. It is an opportunity that allows mothers to maximize their earning potential without limiting their ability to spend time with their families. With the growth of mobile technology and online shopping, there are more opportunities for moms to make their own schedules and grow their own businesses than ever before.

Sources:
Census.gov, mibn.org, Center for Women’s
Business Research, MarketResearch.com, Womma.com,
Bpn.com, Blue Suit Mom, and Citibank.