Women’s Entrepreneurship Development in Bangladesh: A Gender Perspective

Abstract:

Background: Entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in driving a country’s socio-economic progress. Globally, over 400 million individuals are engaged in entrepreneurship; however, women’s participation remains notably lower than men. This research centres on women’s entrepreneurship development in Bangladesh, examining it through a gender lens. Methods: Employing a qualitative approach and literature review methodology, we analyzed more than 50 pertinent studies on gender and entrepreneurship. Four central research questions guided our investigation: what methodologies and findings characterize previous studies on gender and entrepreneurship? What are the primary drivers and challenges in women’s entrepreneurship development? How do societal gender constructions influence women’s entrepreneurial decisions? What future directions can be projected for gender and entrepreneurship research? Results: Women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh encounter multifaceted challenges across various phases of entrepreneurship, encompassing access to business capital, finance, education, ICTs, markets, infrastructure, and transportation. Our analysis indicates that societal gender constructs significantly influence women’s entrepreneurial choices. Furthermore, entrenched gender stereotypes impede sustainable entrepreneurship development, especially among women. Conclusion: Addressing the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Bangladesh requires a multifaceted approach that challenges traditional gender norms and fosters an enabling environment for women’s entrepreneurial endeavours.

Keywords:

gender; entrepreneurship; women; development.

Citation: Tania Afrin Tonny and Oluwakemi Favour Bayewu (2024). Women's Entrepreneurship Development in Bangladesh: A Gender Perspective. Horizon J. Hum. Soc. Sci. Res. 6 (1), 88–96. https://doi.org/10.37534/bp.jhssr.2024.v6.n1.id1242.p88