About 42% of women working in Singapore’s finance and accountancy sector aim to become entrepreneurs, up from 31% a year earlier, according to a report by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
Entrepreneurial ambitions are strongest among younger professionals, with half of Generation Z and Millennials in the sector saying they hope to start their own businesses in the future. Many cited the pursuit of independence, meaningful impact, and financial freedom as key motivations.
Although men still report higher levels of entrepreneurial ambition, the ACCA study noted that the gap in career confidence and long-term aspirations between men and women is gradually narrowing.
Helen Brand, chief executive of ACCA, said the skills gained in finance and accountancy can provide women with a strong foundation for launching businesses.
“Accountancy offers a powerful platform for entrepreneurial success by combining financial expertise with governance, risk management, technology, and strategic insight. Enabling women to turn ambition into enterprise is vital not only for equality but also for broader economic growth,” Brand said.
Daniel Leung, ACCA’s country head for Singapore, added that younger finance professionals increasingly see the field as a springboard for innovation and independence, helping unlock entrepreneurial opportunities.
Survey results also showed that more than half of respondents believe a finance background supports entrepreneurial careers, as many professionals seek roles tied to purpose, social impact, and environmental sustainability.
According to the report, this trend highlights the growing role of the accountancy profession as a pathway to economic empowerment.
The findings coincide with International Women’s Day 2026 and the UN Women theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL women and girls.” The conclusions are based on a survey of 11,000 finance professionals across 175 countries.
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