In recent years, women in New South Wales (NSW) have been transforming the face of small business. With determination, innovation, and a deep sense of purpose, female entrepreneurs are not only creating profitable ventures but also reshaping the values and goals of the broader business landscape. The focus is shifting from short-term gains to long-term legacy, from competition to collaboration, and from traditional models to inclusive leadership.
This blog explores how women in NSW are leading change, building enduring legacies, and how government programs, particularly through Service NSW, are supporting their journey every step of the way.
The Rise of Women in Small Business
According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, women now own or manage more than 38% of small businesses in Australia, with NSW seeing a significant rise in female-led startups. From e-commerce stores to creative studios, consulting firms to food ventures, women are entering diverse industries with a fresh perspective.
What sets these businesses apart is not just what they do, but how they do it. Female-led businesses in NSW tend to emphasize:
- Community impact over pure profit
- Work-life integration and flexible employment models
- Sustainable growth that supports family, community, and legacy
- Collaboration over competition, especially among other women-owned businesses
Leadership Styles That Inspire
Women entrepreneurs are redefining what it means to be a leader. Their leadership styles are often marked by emotional intelligence, inclusivity, empathy, and resilience. These qualities not only foster stronger team cultures but also lead to more responsive and ethical business models.
Leadership among women in NSW also reflects a commitment to mentorship. Successful female founders are investing time and energy into nurturing the next generation of women entrepreneurs, creating a legacy of leadership that extends beyond their own ventures.
Creating a Legacy That Matters
Unlike traditional business narratives that focus on exit strategies and financial milestones, many women entrepreneurs are focused on building legacies that benefit communities and future generations. This may involve:
- Creating environmentally responsible supply chains
- Providing employment opportunities to other women and marginalised groups
- Developing businesses that can be passed down to family or community leaders
- Investing in causes aligned with their mission and values
This shift in mindset is not just admirable—it’s powerful. Legacy-focused businesses tend to enjoy higher customer loyalty, stronger employee retention, and a lasting presence in their communities.
How Service NSW Supports Women Redefining Business
Through a wide range of programs and tools, Service NSW plays a vital role in helping women build and scale small businesses with purpose. Here’s how:
1. The Women in Business Program
This free online program developed in collaboration with TAFE NSW offers training across marketing, finance, leadership, and goal setting. It’s designed specifically for female entrepreneurs who want to build long-term, sustainable businesses.
2. Business Concierge Service
Service NSW offers a personalized concierge service to guide women through business registrations, licensing, accessing grants, and building business plans tailored to their goals.
3. Grants and Financial Support
Eligible women-owned businesses can access various funding opportunities, including startup grants, innovation grants, export assistance, and disaster recovery funding.
4. Networking and Mentorship Opportunities
Service NSW hosts events and provides connections to industry mentors, helping women tap into supportive networks that encourage growth and collaboration.
Real-Life Story: Leaving a Legacy in Regional NSW
Meet Lisa, a business owner from Wagga Wagga who started her organic skincare brand from home. With support from the Women in Business program and a Service NSW business concierge, she scaled her company into a thriving e-commerce store with regional distributors. More importantly, she now mentors other Indigenous women in her community, helping them start sustainable businesses rooted in culture and heritage.
Lisa’s story is just one of many examples of how leadership and legacy go hand-in-hand when women are empowered to succeed.
Key Steps to Build Your Legacy as a Woman Entrepreneur
- Define your values and integrate them into your brand story
- Seek mentorship—and offer it when you’re ready
- Use government support programs like Service NSW to remove growth barriers
- Build a resilient, sustainable business model that benefits future generations
- Stay connected to community, culture, and purpose
Conclusion
The women entrepreneurs of NSW are not just running businesses—they are reshaping the culture of enterprise. Through inclusive leadership, a commitment to community, and a drive to leave something meaningful behind, these women are building businesses that last.
And with the support of Service NSW, from free training and concierge services to access to networks and funding, the journey from startup to legacy is more achievable than ever.
Are you ready to lead with purpose and create a lasting impact? Connect with Service NSW today, and take the next step in your business legacy.
