Women Entrepreneurship and Barriers to Growth

Abstract

This study investigates the barriers that hinder women’s entrepreneurial growth using a mixed-methods research design. Quantitative analysis of survey data from 500 women entrepreneurs and qualitative insights from 40 semi-structured interviews reveal the interrelated challenges women face across financial, institutional, socio-cultural, and technological domains. Results show that financial exclusion, manifested in limited access to credit and biased investment decisions, significantly constrains growth. Institutional support policies, though widely promoted, are inconsistently implemented and often fail to reach marginalized groups. Socio-cultural constraints such as family responsibilities, patriarchal norms, and gender stereotypes continue to impede entrepreneurial participation. Networking and mentorship are shown to enhance growth potential, yet access to these resources remains limited. The findings also highlight the transformative potential of digital adoption, although the digital gender divide restricts equitable participation.The study contributes to entrepreneurship theory by emphasizing the intersectionality of barriers and underscores the need for integrated interventions. Policy recommendations include enhancing gender-sensitive financial instruments, expanding mentorship platforms, and implementing regionally tailored programs that address socio-cultural norms and infrastructural constraints. Practically, the research provides actionable insights for policymakers, development agencies, and entrepreneurial associations seeking to foster inclusive and sustainable growth. The findings confirm that supporting women entrepreneurs is both an economic imperative and a pathway to social transformation.