Although Japan’s economy soars alongside the biggest economies in the world, it has a historically low female labor participation rate and limited representation in business leadership roles. Even so, countless women have started businesses and made names for themselves, sparking innovation and playing a role in boosting the Japanese economy. Encouraging more women to do so will only take Japan’s economy further. Read this article if you’re looking for an interesting narrative on female entrepreneurs in Japan!
An Overview of Female Entrepreneurs in Japan
Female entrepreneurs in Japan play a critical role in both the cultural and economic aspects. Regarding the cultural aspect, this topic challenges the traditional gender roles existing in Japan, and now promotes gender equality, fostering a more inclusive society. In terms of economics, female entrepreneurs contribute significantly to innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
Japan’s Progress Toward SDG 5: Gender Equality
As previously mentioned, some traditional gender roles in Japan need some changing. That being said, you might be wondering if any progress has been made. The short answer? Strides have been made but they’re not enough.
Japan has taken steps toward achieving the 5th SDG, but significant challenges remain. The country still ranks lowest among G7 nations and 116th globally in the World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Index, indicating substantial gender disparities. Although some public and private initiatives are working to address these issues, with policies promoting greater transparency, cultural norms and workplace practices continue to hinder significant progress.
Curious to learn more about how Japan is approaching sustainable development goals? Check out our article on SDGs in Japan!
Current Challenges For Female Entrepreneurs in Japan
In Japan, societal perceptions of women in leadership roles have been shaped by longstanding cultural norms and gender expectations. Here are some examples of them.
Cultural Norms and Gender Expectations
- Traditional Japanese culture emphasizes a clear division of labor with men as breadwinners and women as homemakers.
- These norms continue to influence professional landscapes, creating barriers for women in leadership.
Barriers for Female Entrepreneurs in Japan
- Female entrepreneurs in Japan face skepticism regarding their capabilities and commitment.
- Challenges include hindered access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
- Corporate culture often prioritizes male-dominated networks and decision-making processes.
Strategies to Overcome Gender-Related Obstacles and Stereotypes
Despite all the challenges listed above for female entrepreneurs in Japan, let us not be demotivated. Listed below are some starting points for individuals who want to make a change!
- Building support networks: Establishing robust support networks, including mentorship from successful female leaders
- Maximizing tech innovations: Using technology and social media to bypass traditional gatekeepers and reach target markets
- Advocating for policy changes: Promoting policies that support gender equality, such as mandatory paternity leave and anti-discrimination laws
- Education and awareness: Implementing education and awareness programs to challenge stereotypes and highlight female entrepreneurs’ achievements
6 Great Businesses and the Successful Female Entrepreneurs in Japan Behind Them
Yan Fan, Co-founder of Code Chrysalis
Yan Fan, co-founder of Code Chrysalis, moved to Japan seven years ago and has a background in Economics and Arabic. Initially working in commodities, she discovered a passion for software engineering and relocated to San Francisco, where she joined some of the first coding bootcamps. After gaining experience at a machine learning startup, Yan’s interest in education led her to launch a coding bootcamp in the Middle East amid the Syrian refugee crisis. A year later, she returned to Japan and established Code Chrysalis, revolutionizing tech education in Asia.
Code Chrysalis began as a typical coding bootcamp aiming to bring Silicon Valley standards to junior engineers in Japan. Over the years, it has pivoted to focus on corporate training while still offering small, traditional coding bootcamp programs. This evolution allows Code Chrysalis to provide cutting-edge tech education and upskilling opportunities, positioning itself as a leader in Japan’s tech industry.
Discover how Yan Fan scaled Code Chrysalis in Japan by tuning into our in-depth podcast episode with her!
Elizabeth Anne Kyle, Founder and CEO of Arigato Travel
Elizabeth Anne Kyle, originally from the Philippines, fell in love with Japan during a summer trip with her mom and brother at the age of 12. She returned at 19 and has since made Japan her home, eventually becoming the CEO of Arigato Travel. Her entrepreneurial spirit emerged early, starting at age 7 when she sold pens, candies, and other items at school. Today, she leads Arigato Travel, sharing her passion for Japan with the world.
Arigato Travel, born out of a love for travel, food, and meeting people, is an inbound travel company dedicated to showcasing Japan’s rich culture through food and unique experiences. Arigato Travel offers over 40 food tours across seven cities, providing bespoke tours, itinerary services, guide training programs, and much more. Having welcomed over 40,000 guests, Arigato Travel continues to create memorable experiences for visitors exploring the best of Japan.
Learn even more about how Elizabeth was able to build a travel business in Japan by listening to our podcast episode with her!
Rochelle Kopp, Founder and Managing Principal of Japan Intercultural Consulting
Rochelle Kopp has a deep-rooted passion for fostering cross-cultural understanding between Japan and the rest of the world. Originally from the United States, Rochelle’s fascination with Japanese culture began during her university years when she studied abroad in Tokyo. This experience ignited her desire to bridge the cultural gap between Japan and other nations. Identifying a need for improved cross-cultural communication in the business world, she established Japan Intercultural Consulting. The firm specializes in helping Japanese companies understand and work effectively with their international counterparts, and vice versa.
Under Rochelle’s leadership, Japan Intercultural Consulting has become a trusted partner for numerous multinational corporations. Her expertise in Japanese business practices and intercultural communication has been instrumental in fostering successful international collaborations. Rochelle’s dedication to her work is evident in the numerous workshops and seminars she conducts, as well as the insightful books and articles she has authored on the subject.
Discover more about Rochelle Kopp’s contributions to cross-cultural business relations by tuning into our latest podcast episode featuring her inspiring story!
Ruth Jarman, Founder and CEO of Jarman International KK
Ruth Jarman dedicated her career to enhancing the global understanding of Japan. Originally from Hawaii, Ruth’s journey in Japan began in her early twenties when she moved here for a corporate job. Her love for Japanese culture and her vision for promoting Japan to the world led her to establish Jarman International KK, a consultancy firm that bridges the gap between Japan and international markets.
Under Ruth’s leadership, Jarman International KK has become a pivotal player in introducing Japan’s unique offerings to a global audience. The firm specializes in inbound tourism, real estate, and cross-cultural business strategies, providing tailored solutions to help international companies thrive in the Japanese market. Ruth’s commitment to fostering international relationships is reflected in the numerous seminars and events she organizes, as well as her active presence in various media platforms. Learn more about Ruth Jarman’s inspiring journey and her significant contributions to global business relations by tuning into our latest podcast episode featuring her story!
Learn even more about how Elizabeth was able to build a travel business in Japan by listening to our podcast episode with her!
Yu Li, Co-Founder of Openfor.co
Yu Li is a results-driven executive leader with over 12 years of international experience in new business development, partnership cultivation, and global expansion. Her engagement with the global startup ecosystem deepened after co-founding OpenFor.co. In these roles, Yu has been instrumental in advising and nurturing ventures, leveraging her extensive network and strategic insights to help both startups and established companies achieve their potential. Her leadership has been pivotal in introducing the Founder Institute’s accelerator programs to Japan and Korea, quickly elevating its brand and spearheading the creation of 31 startups in under two years through a strong mentor and partner network.
OpenFor.co embodies her commitment to partnership development in the startup community. It connects startups with vital resources and supports them through partner program development and intensive boot camps, facilitating strategic sales and partnerships that have had a substantial economic impact. Recognized for her track record in startup advising and mentoring, and for her trilingual proficiency, Yu has played a major role in cross-cultural business negotiations and expansions.
Learn more about Yu Li’s journey and his significant contributions to the startup ecosystem by tuning into our latest podcast episode featuring his inspiring story!
Tracey Northcott, Founder of Tracey Northcott Consulting
Tracey Northcott has carved a niche as a leading hospitality and business consultant in Japan. With a diverse background in IT, property investment, and tourism, Tracey leverages her extensive experience to help businesses optimize their operations and achieve growth. Her consulting services focus on strategic planning, marketing, and maximizing property potential, making her a trusted advisor in the industry.
Tracey Northcott Consulting offers expert hospitality and business consulting services designed to help clients maximize their property potential and business operations. With a focus on strategic planning, marketing, and revenue optimization, Tracey Northcott brings her extensive experience in IT, property investment, and tourism to deliver tailored solutions for each client. Her consultancy ensures businesses thrive in the competitive market, making Tracey Northcott Consulting a trusted partner for achieving sustainable growth and success.
Here’s a podcast episode featuring Tracey to learn more about her business!
Exploring the Business Ecosystem as Successful Female Entrepreneurs in Japan
Female entrepreneurs in Japan are slowly gaining momentum thanks to several dedicated support systems and networks. The following organizations provide useful resources, networking opportunities, and education programs designed to help women succeed in the business landscape in Japan!
Startup Lady
Tokyo-based Startup Lady is a dynamic network supporting female entrepreneurs through events, workshops, and a video series featuring successful women in business. This initiative aims to inspire and educate women on practical business skills, creating a supportive community that addresses social and professional challenges.
WEConnect International Japan
Part of a global network, WEConnect International Japan connects women-owned businesses with multinational corporations. Offering certification, networking events, and educational resources, this organization helps women entrepreneurs access new markets and business opportunities, promoting economic growth and gender equality.
Female Entrepreneurial Networks and Symposiums
Universities like Hiroshima University and Waseda University sometimes host symposiums and panels focused on female entrepreneurship, discussing challenges and opportunities in business. These events emphasize education, networking, and community engagement, encouraging women to leverage their resources for innovative solutions.
FEW Japan (For Empowering Women in Japan)
FEW Japan provides networking, mentorship, and professional development for women across various career stages, including entrepreneurship. With monthly meetings, workshops, and collaborations with international networks, FEW Japan supports women in navigating their professional journeys (Japan Inc.).
Shaping the Future of Female Entrepreneurs in Japan
Female entrepreneurs in Japan play an important role in inspiring and supporting upcoming business leaders. Initiatives like those mentioned above offer mentorship, practical workshops, and a platform for successful women to share their experiences, thus providing guidance and motivation to the next generation of female entrepreneurs. By creating a supportive community, these leaders are helping to break down barriers and encourage more women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
The journey of successful female entrepreneurs in Japan highlights the importance of mentorship, supportive networks, and societal change. These stories of resilience and innovation demonstrate the potential for women to lead and transform the business landscape. To continue this progress, readers must support initiatives that promote female entrepreneurs in Japan, whether through participation, mentorship, or advocacy, ensuring a more equitable and dynamic future for all female entrepreneurs in Japan.
Conclusion
Female entrepreneurs in Japan have a lot to offer to the Japanese economy, however, this potential has yet to be unlocked. Nevertheless, significant strides have been made in changing this! Through new initiatives, networking opportunities, and simply spreading awareness, it is safe to stay optimistic about the future of female entrepreneurs in Japan!
