WOMEN WE SALUTE YOU!

As the world gears up to celebrate International Women’s Day, we’d like to acknowledge the pivotal role that women play in small businesses across Australia and New Zealand.

From start-ups to established ventures, women entrepreneurs are driving innovation, fostering growth, and shaping the economic landscape of the nation.

Of our OMG! Business Owners throughout Australia and New Zealand, 23 are women running their business on their own and 37 have partners. These powerhouse women are often also juggling other work and family commitments. They are quite simply, Wonder Women.

As a collective, they tell tales of how much they love the sense of community in their own patch of Australia and New Zealand that they have developed with their OMG! Donuts business; how much their confidence has grown; how empowered they feel; how their business has helped their work-life balance and how it has helped their family grow both financially and in togetherness. For those with kids, they’ve loved being able to model firsthand, the principles of business and that goals can be achieved.

This year’s IWD theme is “Inspire Inclusion”; love that, at OMG! ‘inclusivity’ is our middle name – it’s something we are truly passionate about. We’ve created a product that is able to be enjoyed by just about everyone as they are free from almost all allergens, is vegan and is also Halal and Kosher certified. What does that mean? It means at an office morning tea or a gathering – everyone can enjoy the same treat regardless of their dietary requirements. Ergo we are an inclusive treat.

The Rise of Women in Small Business:

OMG! is not unique in the disproportionate number of women business owners. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of women-owned businesses in Australia and New Zealand. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, women now represent nearly 35% of all small business owners in the country, a testament to their growing influence in the entrepreneurial sphere. This surge in women-led enterprises reflects not only a shift in traditional gender roles but also the untapped potential and talent that women bring to the table.

Driving Economic Growth and Innovation:

Women entrepreneurs are not just participating in the business world; they are driving economic growth and fostering innovation. Studies have shown that businesses with diverse leadership, including gender diversity, tend to outperform their counterparts. By bringing unique perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving skills to the table, women in small businesses are sparking innovation, driving productivity, and fuelling economic prosperity.

Empowering Local Communities:

Beyond economic contributions, women-led small businesses play a vital role in empowering local communities. These enterprises often serve as pillars of support, providing employment opportunities, fostering community engagement, and contributing to social cohesion. Whether it’s an OMG! Donut business, a sustainable fashion brand, or a tech startup, women entrepreneurs are making a tangible difference in the lives of those around them, creating inclusive spaces and driving positive social change. With the OMG! Donut business model, which is a licensed business model, money earned stays within the local community.

Overcoming Challenges:

Despite their significant contributions, women entrepreneurs in Australia and New Zealand continue to face unique challenges in the business world. From limited access to funding and resources to gender bias and stereotypes, the road to entrepreneurship can be riddled with obstacles. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the resilience, determination, and tenacity of women in overcoming these barriers and carving out their paths to success.

The Importance of Support and Mentorship:

To empower women entrepreneurs and foster their success, it’s essential to provide support and mentorship. Initiatives such as networking events, mentorship programs, and access to funding opportunities can play a crucial role in helping women navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. By fostering a supportive ecosystem that champions diversity and inclusion, we can unlock the full potential of women in small business and drive collective prosperity.

Looking Ahead:

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to empowering women in small business in Australia, New Zealand and beyond. By fostering an environment that values diversity, promotes equality, and supports women’s entrepreneurship, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. Together, let’s continue to champion the contributions of women entrepreneurs and work towards a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Women are not just integral to small businesses in Australia and New Zealand; they are the driving force behind innovation, growth, and community empowerment. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us recognize the importance of supporting and empowering women entrepreneurs, ensuring that they have the resources, opportunities, and encouragement they need to succeed. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society where women’s contributions are celebrated and valued.

From our HQ in Brisbane with its own cache of successful women – Di (Director), Jules (EA) and Kath and Kellie (Marketing) – from the top of Australia to the bottom in Hobart, from the East in Coffs Harbour to the West in Geraldton – we applaud all the OMG! women business owners and so admire how they demonstrate that with passion, perseverance, and determination, anything is possible…thank you –

Abeer (Hume)

Ally and Michelle (Adelaide Hills)

Amanda (North Sydney and Lower North Shore)

Amber (Coffs Harbour);

Bali (Perth North)

Bec and Dani (Cardinia and Bass Coast)

Tara (Bendigo)

Bree (Lismore and Richmond Valley)

Carmelle (Auckland)

Christie (Baw Baw)

Crystal (North Tasmania)

Donna (Dubbo);