Representation of women in business is a concern for all. Currently, only one-fifth of businesses in the UK are led by women, and female-led businesses face specific and entrenched barriers to achieving their full economic potential in male dominated sectors. Companies with higher female representation already outperform those with less, and it is estimated that the UK economy could generate an additional £250bn if women entrepreneurs had the means and access to start new businesses at the same rate as men.
LCCI's Women in Business group aims to grow the representation of women in under-represented sectors and promote inclusivity as a marketplace and financial advantage. The group seeks to champion issues that need to be addressed for women by key stakeholders and the management of organisations.
It is LCCI’s belief that the economy and businesses will perform better when inclusivity is at the forefront. This group, alongside LCCI’s Black Business Association and Asian Business Association, helps businesses to attract and retain the best talent, and provide equal opportunities for progression and growth. Men, as well as women, have a role to play in ensuring this objective is achieved.
LCCI are committed to helping female-led businesses, women business owners and female entrepreneurs drive their businesses forward. We aim to empower, inspire, support and motivate professional businesswomen through our network in London and through the international Chamber network.
Thursday 5 March, 12.00pm - 3.00pm
Celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with the LCCI Women in Business (WIB) group at an elegant seated networking lunch in the beautiful surroundings of Piazza Italiana. This special occasion offers the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, share ideas and build meaningful relationships in a relaxed yet refined setting.
To join the Women in Business Group you must be an LCCI Member or part of the free London Chamber Community Network:
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We are delighted that our Women in Business Advisory Board Chair Abby Ghafoor has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s New Year Honours List for her services to business and to diversity and inclusion.
In honour of International Women's Day, we took the opportunity to shine a light on the fantastic female leaders we have within LCCI's membership and our Women in Business Advisory Board. This year, we asked Julie Nel, Jacqui Thornton, Nicole Lowe and Parul to explain what this day means to them, their top advice for women at the start of their careers, and how we can build workplaces and societies where women can thrive.
What do women in business need to do to ease their path and realise their ambitions to expand their presence overseas? LCCI's Trade Services and Business Development Manager Elizabeth Skewes explores in this article.
LCCI's Women in Business group welcomed David B Horne to the Chamber in October, who delved into the critical issue of the uneven playing field faced by female and ethnic minority founders when raising capital. Attendees also received a free copy of his award-winning, Amazon #1 best-selling book, "Funded Female Founders".
London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) launched our free-to-access, practical business programme this year, which saw our first cohort taking part in four sessions to increase their confidence, equip them with tools to maximise their impact, and develop a strong, active network of peers.
Despite progress in recent years, women continue to face significant barriers to participating fully in international trade. These barriers can be categorized into four main areas: social and cultural norms, legal and regular frameworks, access to finance and markets, and skills and capacity building.
Watch as Melissa Gauge, SpareMyTime, takes home gold as the SME London Business Awards Business Woman of the Year 2025
Chaired by Abby Ghafoor, Founder & CEO, Arc Management Consulting, LCCI's Women in Business Advisory Board is a mixed gender committee that works with LCCI members to identify and address key issues and concerns.
LCCI events are great opportunties to build new business connections and gain valuable industry insights. With over 200 events a year, there is plenty to choose from.
London Business Matters is the Chamber's bi-monthly magazine. The publication includes expert advice, indepth international trade insight, business trends and industry updates. Read exclusive interviews with leading business figures, case-studies from members and discover the latest news from London's business community.
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