How new financing models can help women turn ideas into businesses
By MicroBalkans Organising Committee
Promising business ideas can struggle to become viable companies when their founders cannot access finance. For many women entrepreneurs, securing the money to start or grow a business remains a major challenge, even when they have the vision, knowledge and ambition to succeed.
Women account for just 33% of business owners in the European Union, according to a European Commission report published in 2026. Access to finance remains one of the main barriers they face in starting and expanding their businesses.
The scale of the opportunity is substantial. In The Missing Entrepreneurs 2023, the OECD and European Commission estimated that the EU could have an additional 5.5 million women entrepreneurs if women participated in early-stage entrepreneurship at the same rate as men aged 30 to 49. The estimate highlights the need for financial solutions that give more women the opportunity to grow their businesses, create jobs and contribute to economic development.
Financing that reflects the needs of women entrepreneurs
Non-bank finance is playing an increasingly important role in supporting women entrepreneurs. Accessible financial products tailored to their needs, together with flexible lending models, can help them secure capital, invest in their ideas and build sustainable businesses with room to grow.
Positive examples show how the right support can turn this potential into practical results. For some entrepreneurs, a microloan has been the first step towards opening a beauty salon or craft workshop. For others, it has made it possible to buy modern agricultural equipment, expand a family business or launch an online shop selling jewellery made from sustainable materials. Each story is different, but they share a common message: financial independence begins with the courage to take the first step.
Bringing the conversation to MicroBalkans 26
Women's entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and new financing models for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises will be among the issues in focus at MicroBalkans 26. The regional conference is organised by the Group of Non-Banking Financial Institutions (NBFI Group) at the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia and the country's savings houses, in partnership with the Western Balkans Alliance and the European Microfinance Network.
Following successful editions in Sarajevo and Dubrovnik, MicroBalkans comes to Skopje on 24 and 25 September 2026. Under the theme “Lending Reimagined”, the conference will explore the future of microfinance, lending, artificial intelligence and new financing models.
More than 200 participants, including representatives of financial institutions, savings houses, investors, fintech companies, regulators and entrepreneurs from the region and across Europe, will discuss financing opportunities and ways to build a more inclusive financial system.
If you are a woman entrepreneur, or are thinking of starting or expanding your own business, MicroBalkans 26 offers an opportunity to find inspiration, gain knowledge and meet people who can help you turn your idea into a successful business.
Registration is open and places are limited. View the programme and register for MicroBalkans 26.
