The Role of Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Addressing Challenges and Identifying Prospects

Abstract

As India moves toward sustainable development goals, sustainable entrepreneurship, which combines environmental, social, and economic aims, is becoming more and more popular there. Women entrepreneurs are becoming important figures in this field, offering creative solutions in fields including sustainable fashion, ecotourism, organic farming, and waste management.  These entrepreneurs, on the other hand, confront particular difficulties, such as limited access to funding, social and cultural barriers, operational and business limitations, problems with networking and mentoring, regulatory and policy barriers, and the combined weight of managing both business and household duties. However, success elements including market opportunities, ecosystems and support networks, innovation and competitive advantage, individual motivations and strengths, and institutional and policy support continue to flourish. Based on information gathered from a sample of 180 female entrepreneurs, this study investigates the opportunities and difficulties faced by women involved in sustainable entrepreneurship throughout India. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches are used in the study to examine the variables influencing their success. The results show that Indian women entrepreneurs are resilient in the face of obstacles, using social impact objectives, community networks, and creative approaches to create long-lasting businesses. In order to promote sustainable entrepreneurship among Indian women, the report ends by suggesting specific interventions, including community-based incubators, mentorship networks, government assistance programs, and financing schemes geared at women. By offering insights into the gendered aspects of entrepreneurship in the Indian context, the study's findings will add to the expanding corpus of literature on sustainable entrepreneurship. In order to create an environment that supports women in sustainable business, the study will also provide useful suggestions for legislators, banks, and support groups. These business owners have the potential to significantly contribute to India's sustainable development, economic growth, and environmental stewardship with the right kind of assistance and focused interventions.