On this Women Entrepreneurship Day, we at Interoots, are proud to support women in their journeys abroad, whether through our "Reinventing Yourself Abroad" program in collaboration with Fernanda Ortega, founder of EAGER Consulting or by connecting Brazilian women via the Raízes in Barcelona community. Our mission is to empower women to transform challenges into opportunities, helping them thrive in new environments.
Living abroad opens up a world of opportunities and challenges that inspire many women to embark on entrepreneurial journeys. Based on my observations and experiences, here are four key motivators:
1. Market Opportunities:
Women often discover unique gaps in the market when living in a new country. They are able to introduce products or services that are popular in their home country but missing in their new environment. Additionally, they can address specific needs within the expat community, leveraging their unique insights to build successful ventures.
2. Career Alignment and Flexibility:
For many, moving abroad is a chance to realign their career paths with their current life circumstances. Entrepreneurship offers the flexibility to create a work-life balance that suits family needs and personal goals. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those seeking a career that evolves with their lifestyle.
3. Leveraging Skills and Experiences:
Living in a different cultural context allows women to utilize their diverse skills and experiences to develop innovative business ideas. By blending knowledge from their home country with new insights from abroad, they can create unique and creative business offerings that stand out in the market.
4. Intentional and Necessity-Driven Entrepreneurship:
Some women relocate with the intention of starting a business, viewing the move as a strategic opportunity to pursue entrepreneurial dreams. Others, however, may turn to entrepreneurship by necessity due to challenges like language barriers or visa restrictions that limit traditional employment opportunities. Starting a business helps maintain their professional identity and financial contribution.
No matter the motivation, entrepreneurship abroad often leads to building supportive networks with other entrepreneurs and locals. Here in Barcelona I have had the priviledge of joining the Metropolitan Business Association, where I have connected with entrepreneurs from across the globe who also have their businesses in Barcelona, including many great women. These communities provide essential support, collaboration, and a sense of belonging in a foreign environment.
Women who take the entrepreneurial leap while living abroad enrich both their lives and the global business landscape. Their courage and innovation serve as an inspiration to many! Congrats to us!
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