"WOMEN IN TODAY'S BUSINESS"

"Women in Today's Business"

"Women in Today's Business"

Entrepreneurial activity delivers employment, economic growth and wealth and is an essential component of a thriving economy. A key element of the government's drive to increase entrepreneurial activity is supporting more women to become involved in business and business start-up and unlocking their wealth creating potential.

In recent years the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor has shown an increase in women s participation in enterprise in US. However, a gap still remains between the number of men and women engaged in entrepreneurial activity, and women continue to be the largest under-represented group in enterprise in US. (Vanessa Burt 2007) There is enormous benefit to be realised for our economy if more women are encouraged to maximise the use of their skills in an existing business or new business start-up. (Mellisa Woodman 2005 Pp. 15-19.) The research shows that inspiring role models do play a crucial role in encouraging women to become entrepreneurs. These women come from a variety of backgrounds and are involved in a range of sectors, and each has a remarkable story to tell. I would like to thank the women featured in this booklet for being candid about their experiences. I do hope that other women will find their stories motivational and an inspiration. (David Meik 2005. Pp. 34-38.)

1- Wendy McCaughan

Wendy McCaughan combined her design expertise with her interest in equestrian sports to come up with an innovative business idea. Spotting a gap in the market and moving to fill it can lead to business success. But the journey from the initial 'light bulb moment' to the establishment of a viable business can be long and challenging. Wendy McCaughan discovered that with perseverance and flexibility you get there in the end.

Wendy was working as a freelance design consultant, and one of the more unusual areas she worked in was bullet-proof vest design. During that time she came up with the idea of an equestrian body protector designed specifically for women. An equestrian eventer herself with an in-depth knowledge of the sport, Wendy had long been frustrated with the body protectors available on the market. (Vanessa Burt 2007)

“Many of the models on the market are flat, and female riders often find them bulky, uncomfortable and restrictive,” says Wendy. “I knew there had to be a market for a model that was designed to fit the female shape, which has a few more curves.” (Vanessa Burt 2007)

Through her previous working life Wendy had extensive industry knowledge and good experience of the sports and protective clothing field. She set up Kan Teq in February 2005 and got assistance from Invest Northern Ireland to develop the product. (Vanessa Burt 2007)

The body protector is a safety garment that combines modern design, fit and materials with an innovative, highly flexible foam protective component.

Wendy formed an alliance with Planet Knox, specialists in the production of protective panels for motorcycle wear, and the company developed a revolutionary moulded foam for use in the ...