Most women want to run their own business but are held back by lack of funds, new research has shown.

Lack of business knowledge and lack of confidence were also cited as barriers to launching a firm.

The study of 300 women by the web site handbag.com showed four out of five were keen to start a business.

The best age to take the plunge was said to be about 30.

Handbag.com editor Debbie Djordjevic said: "Our findings suggest with more business and financial support women are ready to realise their business ambitions."

Katja Hansson, co-founder of Women in Business, a Brighton and Hove-based business support group, said: "Our research has found confidence is definitely one of the main barriers for women.

"Business is still a very male-dominated environment and it can be quite intimidating.

"It's something we are trying to overcome."

Tuesday July 27, 2004