Almost 90 per cent of women who own or operate their own business are confident that they can weather the tough economic times, according to Telstra research.

The research, commissioned for the 2009 Telstra Business Women’s Awards, showed 90 per cent of women who own or operate their own business are concerned about the state of the economy, while 88 per cent are confident of leading their business successfully through the recession.

Meanwhile, action was being taken to battle the downturn, including cost cutting, improving efficiency and working harder, according to the survey of working women.

“The fact that women across the country are confident of breaking through the worst global financial conditions in living memory is testament to their courage and tenacity, and we continue to see the resilience and strength of Australian women shining through,” Telstra group managing director, product management and business women’s awards ambassador, Holly Kramer said.

Kramer said nominations for the Telstra Business Women’s Awards are now open.