February 14, 2018
Female leaders and business owners can nominate to take part in two targeted support programs aimed at enhancing their business skills.
Small Business Minister Shannon Fentiman announced on Wednesday that nominations are now open for the Femeconomy Connection Program and the Advancing Women on Boards program.
“The State Government has partnered with Femeconomy and The Advisory Board Centre to deliver these programs, which are aimed at promoting and supporting women in business to succeed,” Ms Fentiman said.
“It’s our plan to give women the tools, support and skills they need to start, grow and employ, and ultimately lead and succeed, in their own organisations.”
Femeconomy will give 10 women – including eight in regional Queensland – the opportunity to take part in a program that focuses on promoting women in business and leadership roles.
The Advancing Women on Boards program concentrates on how to get more women into board and leadership positions.
“By working with The Advisory Board Centre, we will give 20 female business women the skills and knowledge they need to take an active role in business at a boardroom level,” Ms Fentiman said.
“This comes at a time when women are still vastly underrepresented in leadership positions, particularly on management boards, despite being more likely to attain a tertiary education.
“Women’s increased participation in the workplace and leadership roles is better for the economy.”
Femeconomy Directors Alanna Bastin-Byrne and Jade Collins will be providing opportunities for participants to engage and network with influencers and provide media and speaking opportunities.
“We will be profiling these women as a leader or as a business, and assisting them in overcoming hurdles to encourage business and personal growth,” Ms Bastin-Byrne said.
“Companies with more women in leadership are more profitable, offer more flexibility and have a reduced gender pay gap.”
The Advisory Board Centre’s Managing Director, Louise Broekman, said that even within her own organisation, only 18 per cent of advisors are women.
“Female entrepreneurs and executives are often passing up opportunities because of a perceived lack of skills, experience, networks or influence,” Ms Broekman said.
“Our Advancing Women on Boards Program is for women who own their business or have senior management experience, and who want to increase diversity in the boardroom.
“We are looking for women from diverse backgrounds, industries and locations across Queensland.”
Nominations for either program can be made online.
