Gender Differences in Small Business Owner-Managers

Based on the findings of a literature review of over 425 articles and reports on women in small business commissioned by the Department of Industry, Science and Tourism in Australia, factors that have a gender-specific impact on women in small business are identified. These factors include age, education and experience; motivations, values and risk-taking; business and financial planning; financing; training and business assistance needs; networks and mentoring; and legal issues. Suggestions are made on how the help and advice of accountants and other assistance providers may be influenced by these gender differences.