Traditional barriers in business are more of a concern to women entrepreneurs than the recession, according to a survey of women business leaders by Business Link.

The survey revealed that 39% of women entrepreneurs feel they have to try harder than men to prove themselves as business leaders and that, despite the deepening recession, it is more traditional barriers that are making it harder for women to start and grow their businesses.

"If we are to make a speedy recovery from the recession, we need all sectors of the economy contributing. Approximately 16% of UK small businesses are women owned so this is clearly a sector which provides a significant contribution to the UK economy," said Fran Currie, chief operating officer at Business Link in London.

"But it is clear that women are still not on a level playing field with men - gender stereotypes continue to be a barrier and far too many women entrepreneurs face an uphill battle as they develop and grow their business."