“Entrepreneurship has always been a challenging journey, particularly for women who have to overcome numerous obstacles and biases to succeed. However, women in Trinidad and Tobago are proving that they are more than capable of carving out a space for themselves.”
Challenges faced by women in Entrepreneurship
- Lack of collateral
- Gender biases
- Cultural barriers
- Lack of access to networks and information.
Women Creating a Space for Themselves in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago is a small island nation in the Caribbean with a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of women entrepreneurs starting and running successful businesses in the country. These women are not only breaking barriers and stereotypes but are also creating a space for themselves in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Entrepreneurship has always been a challenging journey, particularly for women who have to overcome numerous obstacles and biases to succeed. However, women in Trinidad and Tobago are proving that they are more than capable of carving out a space for themselves.
One of the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Trinidad and Tobago is access to funding. According to a study by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), women entrepreneurs in the Caribbean region, including Trinidad and Tobago, face significant barriers in accessing financing for their businesses. These barriers include a lack of collateral, gender biases, cultural barriers that discourage women from starting their businesses and a lack of access to networks and information.
Overall, while there are still many challenges not mentioned in this article, that need to be addressed, there are many positive developments happening in Trinidad and Tobago to create a more supportive and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem for women. With continued efforts and investment, it is likely that the number of successful women entrepreneurs in the country will continue to grow in the coming years.
Despite present day challenges and lack of support, our women are making strides in the entrepreneurial space. Many women are indeed starting their own businesses, particularly in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and creative industries. For example, the 3 Circles Energy Consultants Limited initiative, spearheaded by Marianne S. Hosein, provides sustainable adventure experiences and photo-souvenirs to energize the body, mind and spirit in Trinidad and Tobago. This initiative is in line with achieving the sustainable development goals set out in Agenda 3 of the United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development – Transforming our World.
Women entrepreneurs in Trinidad and Tobago are also creating innovative solutions to address societal issues.
Without a doubt, women entrepreneurs in Trinidad and Tobago are breaking barriers and creating a space for themselves in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Despite facing significant challenges, they are making significant contributions to the economy and society. As the ecosystem continues to evolve and mature, it is essential that more resources and support are made available to help women entrepreneurs thrive and grow their businesses. Through women-powered, women-driven, women centered, women-focused initiatives and organisations, women in Trinidad and Tobago are taking their rightful place in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and paving the way for future generations.
We must add too, that women in their own businesses are also instrumental in inspiring other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
It’s time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these women entrepreneurs and create a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for all entrepreneurs in Trinidad and Tobago.
HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY TO ALL WOMEN!!!