By Lefki Panteli
Women working in finance and accounting are showing a growing ambition to start their own businesses, according to early findings from the upcoming Global Talent Trends 2026 report by the global accounting body Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
New data show that 48% of women working in the finance and accounting sector say they would like to become entrepreneurs, up from 45% recorded last year.
The figures come from ACCA’s global survey of more than 11,000 finance professionals across 175 countries. The full report is expected to be published in May 2026.
Gen Z and Millenials driving change
The trend reflects increasing confidence among women in using their accounting and financial expertise as a springboard to launch their own businesses. Although entrepreneurial ambitions remain higher overall among men, the narrowing gap suggests a significant shift in women’s career expectations and aspirations.
The rise is particularly strong among younger professionals, especially those from Generation Z and the Millennial generation, with roughly half saying they hope to become entrepreneurs in the future. The trend points to a strong generational drive for autonomy, influence and financial independence.
According to ACCA data, women account for 49% of its members and 57% of future members, indicating that an increasing number are pursuing the globally recognised ACCA qualification. The certification is currently held by about 257,900 professionals worldwide, while a further 530,100 are working towards obtaining it.
In pursuit of equality
The findings are being released in line with International Women’s Day and align with the global theme set by UN Women: “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL women and girls.”
According to the United Nations, no country in the world has yet achieved full legal equality for women and girls.
The Global Talent Trends 2026 data also show that accounting continues to provide a strong foundation for future entrepreneurs, with more than half of respondents saying their financial background is a major advantage for a business career.
For more information about ACCA’s campaign for International Women’s Day, please visit: https://stories.accaglobal.com/international-womens-day-2026/
The research also highlights a broader redefinition of the accounting profession. Many finance professionals are increasingly seeking roles that deliver positive social impact, environmental sustainability and greater personal autonomy, reinforcing accounting’s role as a pathway to entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
Lefki Panteli is a Member Engagement Manager at ACCA. She served as a scientific associate at the House of Representatives for several years and holds, among other qualifications, a postgraduate degree in Gender and Media Studies and a postgraduate degree in Management. The views expressed are her own.