A new study by Mastercard, released in honor of International Women’s Day 2025, reveals a striking figure: 74% of Moroccan women aspire to start their own businesses. This strong entrepreneurial drive reflects their determination to carve out a place in the business world, yet many still struggle to take the leap.
While the ambition is undeniable, reality tells a more complex story. Currently, only 27% of women in Morocco identify as entrepreneurs, and among millennials, a significant 64% have yet to bring their business ideas to life. This gap between aspiration and execution highlights the barriers they face. However, those who have already launched their ventures remain optimistic—82% of female business owners believe their revenues will grow over the next five years.
Moroccan women entrepreneurs tend to gravitate toward certain sectors, with online sales leading the way, attracting 23% of them. Education and tutoring services come next, tied with the beauty and cosmetics industry, each representing 14%. These fields offer promising opportunities, yet access to entrepreneurship remains challenging. Among the key obstacles, 32% of women cite a lack of funding, while 41% acknowledge insufficient knowledge about starting and managing a business.
To overcome these challenges, women entrepreneurs in Morocco are calling for concrete support. They emphasize the need for better financing options, training in business management and commercial skills, and improved access to digital tools—all crucial factors that could help turn their ambitions into lasting success.
Aware of these difficulties, Mastercard is stepping up its efforts to support women-led businesses. The company is offering tailored financial solutions, specialized training programs, and strategic partnerships to empower female entrepreneurs. Since 2020, Mastercard has already assisted over 50 million small businesses worldwide, including 37 million run by women.
The desire to build and innovate is there, but significant hurdles remain. With the right support systems in place, Moroccan women could play a transformative role in shaping the country’s economic future.
