Suffolk enterprise agency Menta has become a founder member of an initiative to close the gender gap in entrepreneurship.

Although more women than men are currently starting their own businesses, female entrepreneurs are not accessing the same level of support and their ventures are less likely to survive.

Menta, based in Bury St Edmunds, has signed up to the Charter for Women in Business which has been launched by Prowess, an organisation specialising in support for female entrepreneurs.

Alex Till, chief executive of Menta, said: “We see many women launching new businesses who appreciate the support, advice and guidance Menta provides them. We’re pleased to be part of the Charter for Women.”

Prowess director Erika Watson added: “We’re inviting business support and services providers to join Menta by signing up to the charter and let their staff and clients know that they are serious about sharing in women’s business success.”

Among the businesses Menta has helped is Clarke Care, also based in Bury, which was founded by Lorraine Clarke.

She said: “Menta offered great business advice and helped me develop my idea into reality.”