WEConnect International is a global network of 15,000 businesses that aims to connect women-owned businesses with buyers.

To become certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise, companies must meet four criteria based on ownership, management, control and independence.

Businesses must be at least 51%-owned by women, as well as managed and controlled by one or more women.

Ruth Partington, founder and chief executive, Empower, said: “From the existence of a ‘broken first rung’ for women stepping up to management, to nearly one in two men – and one in three women – believing men intrinsically make better leaders, it is still necessary in 2023 to recognise the rarity of female-owned businesses.

“I am honoured that Empower is in this position, and supported by an incredible team of people who continue to pave the way for gender equality in the workplace.”

The WBE certification is valid for 12 months.