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Nearly half of women working in finance and accountancy now aspire to become entrepreneurs, according to early findings from ACCA’s latest global talent report.
According to the data, 48% of female professionals have entrepreneurial ambitions, an increase from 45% recorded during the previous year.
The figures are drawn from a survey of more than 11,000 finance professionals across 175 countries. The full report is due for publication in May 2026.
Researchers found the trend is most pronounced among younger professionals. Half of women in the Generation Z and Millennial brackets said they intend to start businesses.
The shift coincides with International Women’s Day 2026. This year the event aligns with the UN Women theme of ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL women and girls.’
The data shows that 50% of all respondents view their finance background as beneficial for business ownership. Interest is particularly high in emerging markets.
Many professionals reported seeking roles that provide personal autonomy. They also increasingly look for positions that align with social impact and environmental sustainability.
The report suggests that accountancy acts as a launchpad for innovation and independence. It notes that unlocking this potential leads to job creation and higher productivity.
Helen Brand, chief executive of the ACCA, said: “Entrepreneurship represents economic empowerment in action. The number of women aspiring to business ownership is an encouraging signal that finance and accountancy skills are equipping women not only to lead within organisations, but to build enterprises of their own.
“Accountancy provides a powerful platform for entrepreneurial success, combining financial expertise, governance, risk management, technology and strategic insight. Supporting women to translate ambition into enterprise is essential not just for equality, but for economic growth.”
Jamie Lyon, global head of skills, sector and technology at ACCA, added: “The drive towards entrepreneurship is especially evident among younger finance professionals. They see accountancy as more than a technical discipline, it is a launchpad for innovation, independence, and impact.
“While there remains more progress to be made to achieve parity, the direction of travel is clear. The profession is helping to unlock entrepreneurial potential at scale.”
