Women entrepreneurs in Mauritius are making remarkable progress in 2025, fueled by increased awareness, targeted support, and a national push for gender-inclusive growth. Whether as a side hustle or a full-time venture, more Mauritian women are boldly stepping into entrepreneurship. In this guide, we explore 10 business ideas tailored for ambitious women in Mauritius, along with key support schemes and the pros and cons of starting your own business. You can Register and Start Your Business after considering what suits you more. Explore these business ideas for women and start your journey today!
Mauritius has witnessed a steady rise in women entrepreneurs, with women now making up 51% of the population but only 45% of the labour force. The government, private sector, and civil society are working together to close this gap, recognizing that empowering women is not only a matter of equality but also a strategic move for economic growth. Recent policy initiatives, such as the National Gender Policy 2022-2030 and the 2025-2026 Budget, have set the stage for a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Current Status: Women are increasingly present in sectors like ICT, manufacturing, tourism, creative industries, and financial services.
Recognition and Policy: The National Women Entrepreneur Council (NWEC) is being positioned as the apex body for women entrepreneurship, driving collaboration, research, and policy advice.
Strategic Vision: The government’s Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Women Entrepreneurship Development focus on unlocking new opportunities and supporting women-led businesses at every stage
1. Online Boutique or Fashion Store
Starting an online boutique allows women to tap into the growing e-commerce market in Mauritius. With minimal upfront costs, you can sell clothing, accessories, or curated fashion collections on Facebook, Instagram, or local marketplaces. Specializing in modest wear, plus-size fashion, or cultural attire can help stand out in a competitive space. This is a great opportunity for women entrepreneurs looking to build a brand in the fashion sector.
2. Home-Based Catering or Pastry Business
Another business ideas for women is with a culinary talent, a home-based food business can be both rewarding and profitable. You can prepare traditional Mauritian dishes, cakes, or snacks and deliver to offices, events, or sell at fairs. With a focus on hygiene and creativity, catering can quickly grow through word-of-mouth and social media.
3. Beauty & Wellness Services
Beauty services like makeup, waxing, massage, and nail art can be offered from home or as a mobile service. With a small investment in training and equipment, this business suits women who want flexible hours and direct client interaction. There’s also potential in creating natural skincare or wellness products.
4. Daycare or Babysitting Services
As more Mauritian families have both parents working, trusted childcare services are in high demand. Women with a nurturing nature can open a small daycare or provide babysitting services at home. Adding educational activities or after-school care can increase value and demand.
5. Freelance Services
This is one of the most flexible business ideas for women who want to balance family and work. Digital skills in writing, design, translation, or admin support can work as freelancers could be another great Business Ideas for Women. This is an ideal option for educated women who want to work from home. Online platforms like Fiverr and local business pages make it easy to find clients both locally and internationally.
6. Crafts and Handmade Products
Talented in art, sewing, or craftwork? Women can create and sell handmade jewelry, home décor, candles, soaps, or recycled crafts. These products can be sold online or at craft fairs and expos. This business not only provides income but also promotes Mauritian creativity and sustainability.
7. Event Planning and Decoration
With celebrations happening year-round in Mauritius, women with an eye for design can start small in event decoration and gradually move into full event planning. Birthdays, baby showers, engagements, and cultural events offer steady work, especially if you offer stylish, affordable setups.
8. Tutoring or Private Coaching
If you’re qualified in academic subjects, music, or life skills, offering tutoring or coaching is a great way to earn from home. With the rise of online learning, sessions can be conducted in-person or virtually. Parents are often willing to pay for extra academic help or enrichment activities.
9. Agro-Processing or Kitchen Gardening
Women in rural or semi-urban areas can turn a small plot of land into a thriving business. Growing herbs, vegetables, or fruits and turning them into value-added products like jams, pickles, or herbal teas meets the rising demand for organic and homemade food items. Explore our guide on How to start agricultural Business.
10. Digital Content Creation
Those who enjoy creating videos, writing, or sharing tips on daily life, digital content creation can turn into an ideal business ideas for women. Starting a YouTube channel, blog, or TikTok account on parenting, cooking, or lifestyle can attract followers and lead to monetization through sponsorships and ads.
11. Personal Fitness and Wellness Coaching
With increasing awareness of health and well-being in Mauritius, women can turn their passion for fitness into a business by becoming personal trainers, yoga instructors, or wellness coaches. Whether offering one-on-one sessions at clients’ homes, hosting small group classes, or delivering guidance online, this venture allows for flexible hours and strong client relationships. Certifications in fitness or wellness can boost credibility and attract more clients.
Mauritius offers a vibrant ecosystem for women entrepreneurs, with high-potential sectors, targeted support schemes, and a growing network of resources. Here’s how you can tap into the best opportunities and support available this year.
Women entrepreneurs in Mauritius are making their mark across diverse industries, with particular promise in:
ICT and Digital Services: Website and app development, digital marketing, and tech-enabled solutions are in high demand. Embracing digital tools and AI platforms can help women-led businesses scale quickly.
Financial Consulting and Online Businesses: From accounting services to remote consulting, women are leveraging their expertise to serve both local and international clients.
Tourism, Creative Industries, and Manufacturing: The tourism sector, creative arts, and value-added manufacturing (such as crafts or agro-processing) present strong growth opportunities for women-led ventures.
Mauritius has rolled out several initiatives to empower women entrepreneurs:
Academy of Women Entrepreneurs Mauritius 2025:
This U.S. State Department-backed program equips women with business skills, resources, and peer networks to launch or grow their businesses. The curriculum, delivered in partnership with Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management, covers everything from business fundamentals to advanced scaling strategies. Participants also benefit from mentorship and regional networking opportunities.
National Women Entrepreneur Council (NWEC):
As the apex body for women entrepreneurship, NWEC provides business counseling, skills development, and marketing assistance. It regularly organizes training sessions, sensitization campaigns, and trade fairs to help women entrepreneurs develop their businesses and reach new markets.
SME Mauritius & Economic Development Board (EDB):
These organizations offer grants, export-readiness support, and specialized training for women and young entrepreneurs. SME Mauritius provides up to Rs 50,000 in grants for equipment, marketing, and innovation, while EDB facilitates access to regional and international markets.
SheTrades Mauritius Hub:
This platform connects women entrepreneurs to global markets through workshops, trade missions, and business acumen development. Membership is free, and the hub offers support for export-ready businesses and those new to exporting, including guidance on regulatory requirements and international networking.
Private Sector Initiatives:
SBM Bank – “Bright-HER Future”: Offers preferential loans and leasing facilities to women entrepreneurs, supporting both start-ups and established businesses.
Absa Bank – “Women Forward”: Provides tailored training, one-on-one coaching, and business management support, including guidance on finance, leadership, and innovation.
MauBank – “ElleBoost”: A new SME scheme with concessionary rates, zero processing fees, and streamlined approval, designed to ease cash flow and financing challenges for women-owned businesses.
LadyBiz:
Recently announced, LadyBiz is a new initiative aimed at connecting women entrepreneurs with mentors, investors, and digital resources. It focuses on digital literacy, business growth, and community-building, making it easier for women to access the support they need at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey.
NWEC Start-Up and Mentoring Programme: Hands-on workshops in areas like food processing, garment manufacturing, and business management.
Absa Women Forward: One-on-one business coaching, covering everything from financial planning to AI-powered marketing tools.
YUVA Mauritius & HomeNet South Asia: Workshops for home-based and micro-entrepreneurs, focusing on digital skills and business growth.
Women in Business Association (WIBA): A private-sector network offering mentoring, advocacy, and regular events to help women share experiences and form partnerships.
Dedicated Loan Schemes:
The Development Bank of Mauritius (DBM), SBM Bank, MauBank, and Absa all offer special loan products for women, featuring lower interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and minimal collateral requirements.
SME Mauritius Grants:
Women entrepreneurs can apply for grants to fund equipment, marketing, or innovation, with streamlined application processes and ongoing support.
Starting your own business in Mauritius is more achievable than ever, thanks to a growing network of support, training, and financial opportunities designed specifically for women. Here’s how you can take action and build your path to success:
Register with organizations like the National Women Entrepreneur Council (NWEC), SME Mauritius, or the Economic Development Board (EDB) to unlock a range of workshops, mentoring, and financial support. NWEC’s capacity-building programmes cover practical skills—from food processing and garment making to business planning and marketing—helping both new and established entrepreneurs grow their ventures. The Academy of Women Entrepreneurs also offers world-class business training and networking, giving you the confidence and skills to scale your business.
Surround yourself with other ambitious women by joining events like the SHEPreneurs Conclave or associations such as WIBA and AMFCE. These platforms offer peer mentorship, business partnerships, and a sense of community, making the entrepreneurial journey less lonely and far more rewarding. Networking events—like those hosted by SheTrades Mauritius Hub—connect you with local and international businesswomen, opening doors to new markets and collaborations.
Take advantage of government schemes such as the SME Start-Up Programme, Technology and Innovation Scheme, and dedicated grants for women entrepreneurs. The Development Bank of Mauritius now offers unsecured loans of up to Rs 500,000 at a low 3% interest rate—no collateral required—making it easier to get started or expand your business.
Embrace digital tools for marketing, sales, and business operations. Training is available through NWEC, YUVA Mauritius, and SheTrades, helping you reach more customers and streamline your processes. Digital skills are essential for modern business success—don’t hesitate to upskill and make technology work for you.
Think beyond Mauritius! Participate in workshops on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and global trade through EDB and SheTrades Mauritius Hub. These programs can help you access new markets, learn about export requirements, and grow your business internationally.
Souviens-toi: Every successful woman entrepreneur in Mauritius started with a single step. Take advantage of the training, funding, and networks available, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or mentorship. Your journey can inspire others and contribute to a stronger, more inclusive Mauritian economy. Start today—your business dreams are within reach!
Women entrepreneurs are driving change and innovation across Mauritius, but challenges remain. With targeted support, robust networks, and a growing recognition of their economic impact, women are well-positioned to lead the next wave of business growth. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to scale, Mauritius offers more resources and opportunities than ever before.
Explore the support systems mentioned above, connect with networks, and take advantage of the new programmes and financial schemes. Share your journey, seek mentorship, and don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance—your success will help inspire and empower the next generation of women entrepreneurs in Mauritius!
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