Why st. louis women are #1

​“Little girls with dreams become women with a vision.”

​Women. When you think of a woman, you probably have other words that immediately come to mind. Mother, wife, sister, or friend. Throughout the ages, societies and cultures have viewed women quite differently. There were matriarchal societies in the past, like the Nubian Warrior Queens who helped to fight for their empire, to the modern-day society of Mosuo, where women carry on their family names and elect one woman as head of the family to govern their villages in the southwestern region of China. Unfortunately, there are still some societies and countries where women are not viewed with equal values. Women around the world are still fighting for basic rights that other people take for granted such as free speech, the right to vote, and the right to own property.  Despite the trials and persecution throughout history, women have risen up all over the world and demanded equal rights and fair treatment. If you don’t already, there’s another word you should probably start associating with women.

LEADER.

Did you know that women* own an estimated 10.4 million businesses and those businesses, in turn, employ around 13 million people? In addition, women-owned businesses use technology more, as a way to create a more flexible workplace. This allows for flexible schedules and worksites for their employees.

Are you looking to start your own business?

According to census data, women are dominating startups here in St. Louis more than any other metro area in the country. Women lead 45% of St. Louis based startups. That’s almost 3,000 companies, which generate a revenue of an estimated $150-500 million, employing almost 7,000 people.  According to the data, Austin, Texas, who is in the second spot doesn’t even come close to St. Louis’s numbers. In Austin, women lead 33% of startups. Still an impressive number, but St. Louis women are definitely leading the charge into the future!
 
*with a least 50% or more ownership