Moms Leave Corporate Jobs to Buy Existing Businesses

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent return-to-office mandates have led many mothers to re-evaluate their corporate careers, prompting a shift towards entrepreneurship. Anica John, formerly in product management at Walmart Labs and later Amazon, described the situation as untenable, balancing remote work, childcare, and increasing professional demands.

Many women are now pursuing entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA), a model where individuals buy existing businesses rather than starting new ones. John purchased book printing company DiggyPOD in April 2025 with a $10 million Small Business Administration (SBA) loan. She emphasized that her remote-first policy extends flexibility to her employees, mirroring her own needs.

Data shows that hundreds of thousands of women have left the workforce, with caregiving cited as a primary reason. These women are not abandoning their professional ambitions but are seeking work structures that offer more control and work-life balance. ETA is becoming an attractive option for those who want to be business owners without the typical startup risks.

An established business often presents a higher likelihood of long-term success compared to a startup, according to SBA business development officer Lisa Forrest. Funding for acquisitions can come from investors, personal savings with SBA loans, or through incubator programs. For example, Kelly Conway, a mother of four, left her HR executive role and acquired multiple businesses, planning to consolidate them.

While the transition from employee to business owner involves risks, including financial exposure and an intensive search process, many women view ETA as a more sustainable life choice. These acquisitions are often driven by a desire to create companies that align with personal values, prioritizing employee well-being alongside business growth.