A growing number of women in finance are setting their sights beyond traditional career paths, with nearly half now aspiring to become entrepreneurs, according to new research from ACCA.
Early findings from ACCA’s Global Talent Trends 2026 report reveal that 48 percent of women in finance and accountancy roles globally aim to start their own businesses, up from 45 percent a year earlier. The data, based on responses from more than 11,000 professionals across 175 countries, points to a notable shift in career ambition and confidence.
The trend is particularly pronounced among younger professionals, with around half of Gen Z and Millennial women expressing entrepreneurial aspirations. While intent remains higher among men overall, the narrowing gap suggests improving access to opportunities and growing confidence among women in the profession.
“Finance and accountancy are increasingly seen as platforms for leadership and innovation,” said Kush Ahuja, Head of Eurasia and the Middle East at ACCA. “What we are seeing is a new generation of women who are not only entering the profession but actively reshaping its future.”
The findings come as the role of finance professionals continues to evolve. With rising market volatility, regulatory complexity, and rapid technological change, accountants are increasingly taking on strategic roles that extend beyond traditional reporting functions. This shift is opening new pathways for leadership, decision-making, and entrepreneurship.
In the Middle East, ACCA is actively working to accelerate this momentum through targeted initiatives to develop female leadership in finance. Programmes in the region have focused on equipping women with skills aligned to a rapidly changing landscape, including digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
One such initiative, Women in Finance 2025, attracted more than 100 participants, more than doubling attendance from previous editions. The programme combined industry insights with practical learning experiences, including AI-enabled leadership simulations and expert-led discussions on the future of finance.
ACCA says its approach goes beyond awareness, focusing on building a pipeline of future-ready leaders who can translate ambition into tangible outcomes, whether within organisations or through entrepreneurial ventures.
The findings also reflect broader global conversations around gender inclusion and workforce transformation. As finance continues to evolve into a more strategic and technology-driven function, the profession is increasingly being viewed as a launchpad for leadership and business creation.
For the UAE and wider region, where entrepreneurship is a key pillar of economic diversification, the rise in ambition among women in finance could play a critical role in shaping the next generation of business leaders.
