WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN EMERGING ECONOMIES: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES, AND PATHWAYS TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Women’s entrepreneurship in emerging economies has become an important factor of economic growth, social inclusion, and sustainable development. Women entrepreneurs contribute to job creation, innovation, poverty reduction, and the diversification of local and national economies. However, despite their growing role, women in business continue to face numerous barriers, including limited access to finance, weak institutional support, restricted professional networks, insufficient entrepreneurial education, and persistent socio-cultural stereotypes. At the same time, emerging economies also provide new opportunities through digital transformation, e-commerce, service-sector expansion, government support programs, international development initiatives, and women-focused business networks. This study examines the major challenges affecting women entrepreneurs in emerging economies, analyzes the opportunities available for business growth, and highlights successful practices that have helped women establish sustainable enterprises. The article also discusses strategic policy tools such as financial inclusion, entrepreneurship education, mentorship, digital empowerment, regulatory reform, and ecosystem development. The findings show that strengthening women’s entrepreneurship is essential not only for gender equality, but also for inclusive economic development and long-term social progress.