Women's enterprise

There are three million women aged 16 and over in London, making up over 52% of the adult population. According to the 2001 census, 29% of women are from black and minority groups.

The London Annual Business Survey (2007), commissioned by the LDA and Business Link for London, illustrates that 16% of businesses in London could be categorised as female-owned (where over 50% of owners or partners are female).

 Women-owned businesses are more likely to be smaller and in specific sectors, particularly education, health, social work and other community, social and personal activities.

As London's population is 52% female, with women representing 43% of the economically active workforce, this suggests that women remain substantially under-represented among business owners in London.

What we do

The LDA primarily supports women-owned businesses through Business Link in London.

Business Link in London is the gateway to business support services for small and medium sized enterprise in the capital. It offers one-stop access to the most appropriate information, services and best business support to people who want to startup, run or grow a business in London. It is free and impartial available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Business Link in London also run a Women's Online Centre that provides specific information for female entrepreneurs. To find out more about the range of services visit the Business Link in London website or call: 0845 6000 787.

London's Women’s Enterprise Action Plan (WEAP) 2007-2010

London launched it's WEAP in March 2007. The purpose of the plan is to address the disproportionate numbers of women starting and developing their business.