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How Belgian Women's eCommerce Is Redefining Success Beyond Side Hustles

Update Empowered Women: The Rise of Belgian Female Entrepreneurs in eCommerce In an era where flexibility, financial independence, and professional fulfillment take precedence in the work lives of women, Belgian female entrepreneurs are at the forefront of a transformational wave in eCommerce. A recent survey highlighted in a study by Becom and Amazon reveals that 90% of Belgian women running retail businesses express a profound sense of job satisfaction through their digital ventures. The empowerment of women through online marketplaces is reshaping not just lives but also the Belgian economy at large. Driving Economic Growth through Digital Entrepreneurship As highlighted in the findings, the enterprising spirit among Belgian women is contributing not only to their personal success but also to a significant boost in the country's economic growth. Recent research by Frontiers Economics indicates that achieving gender parity in entrepreneurship could yield €250 billion in value for the European economy by 2040. With Belgium and the Netherlands predicted to add €30 billion in annual economic value, the figures are a testament to the thriving female entrepreneurship revolution in the region. Balancing Professional Ambitions and Personal Life A notable feature of this trend is the prioritization of work-life balance. An overwhelming 73% of female entrepreneurs in Belgium report that eCommerce has improved their ability to juggle work and family responsibilities. Marie Claessens, co-founder of The Mocktail Club, illustrates this beautifully, stating, "Digital entrepreneurship isn't just about making money; it's about creating a lifestyle that aligns with our values and priorities." This perspective emphasizes that eCommerce serves as a pathway to personal freedom, allowing women to pursue their passions while remaining present for their families. The Global Reach of Belgian eCommerce Beyond their immediate communities, these women are also making waves on the international stage. The 2025 Amazon SME Impact Report reveals that over 90% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) selling on Amazon are reaching clients worldwide, which has resulted in over €380 million in export sales. Notably, about 75% of these sales are made to other EU member states, underscoring that Belgian female entrepreneurs are not only growing domestically but are also poised for significant cross-border success. Challenges on the Road to Success Despite the growing opportunities, the journey is not without its challenges. Many of these entrepreneurs struggle with supply chain complexities and regulatory compliance, hindering their expansion efforts. Research shows that about 25% face hurdles related to their supply chains, while 24% battle with compliance issues. Nevertheless, their resilience shines through, with nearly half expressing their ambitions for international growth and the need to scale operations to meet increasing demand. The Importance of Community and Support Systems Community plays a pivotal role in the success of these women. The survey shows that while 45% of women value their social networks for support and advice, 53% believe that training on digital skills is crucial for growth. Stefanie Broes, co-founder of Moonbird, shares how the support from fellow entrepreneurs has been invaluable in their journey, emphasizing that shared experiences accelerate growth. Furthermore, initiatives like the Amazon E-Academy offer essential resources that equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. Looking Ahead: Future of Female Entrepreneurship in Belgium As we look to the future, the persistence and innovation shown by Belgian women entrepreneurs highlight a promising trajectory. The survey indicates a strong ambition among these women to continue pushing boundaries and expanding their reach. By leveraging digital platforms effectively, they are not just reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape in Belgium but also laying the groundwork for a more inclusive future. Join the Movement: Supporting Entrepreneurs Across Belgium For those inspired by the remarkable success of these entrepreneurs, support is available to take action. Whether through participating in local e-commerce initiatives or engaging with online community resources, there are countless ways to contribute to this growing movement. Empowering women in business benefits everyone as it fosters innovation, job creation, and a richer community.