Author(s): Anila Thomas
ABSTRACT
The creation of jobs, inventiveness, and revenue growth are all accelerated by entrepreneurship, which promotes inclusive development and is essential to the improvement of social and fiscal stability. The SDGs’ list of urgent social issues, such as equal opportunities for women and men, poverty reduction, high-quality education, and environmental sustainability, may be addressed by people and communities by utilizing their entrepreneurial abilities and ingenuity. Women have been more integrated into the corporate world today, which has greatly aided in the boosting of sustainable-based variations. In addition to boosting the economy, female entrepreneurs encourage gender equality and community empowerment. Women’s entrepreneurial aspirations are hampered by certain obstacles, such as restricted access to capital, education, and institutional assistance. Facilitating equitable opportunity, mentoring, resource accessibility, and capacity-building programs are all part of empowering women entrepreneurs. In order to achieve gender equality and effectively use women’s potential as agents of sustainable development, it is imperative to allow and confront the unique wants and hindrances come across by female entrepreneurs. It is critical to recognize the endless possibilities of women’s entrepreneurship as the whole community works to overcome difficult societal and environmental issues. The study emphasizes how women’s entrepreneurship may help accomplish the SDGs and advance a more equitable and comprehensive global sustainability priorities by acknowledging the interconnection of factors pertaining to the economy, society, and environment. The research additionally prioritizes the following goals:
• To comprehend how entrepreneurship behind to the worldwide accomplishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• To determine the opportunities and obstacles that women entrepreneurs have when trying to match the goals of the SDGs with their businesses.
• To assess women’s entrepreneurship’s importance in the progressive sustainability projects of the global business environment
• To identify the main impediments that stop women from business in order to help achieve the SDGs
• Acknowledging the regulatory structure and available resources to help female entrepreneurs engaged in sustainable development projects.
This study emphasizes the diverse ways in which women entrepreneurs contribute to the accomplishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by reviewing the relevant literature, analyzing case studies, and presenting actual data. In order for women entrepreneurs to fully realize their potential in propelling sustainable development, it is imperative that supportive environments be created, gender equality be advocated for, and they get focused assistance.
A widespread consensus and acknowledgment exist on the vital importance of female entrepreneurs for sound and balanced social and economic growth, with a focus on the necessity of using human potential, creativity, and caring. Numerous studies indicate that female entrepreneurs are more aware of how their operations, choices, and surrounds affect their local communities and surroundings. Because of this, they frequently seek to promote a wide variety of economic endeavours in their local areas and launch businesses that rely on available labour and resources. But India, like innumerable states rich in resources, has little chances to grow and establish durable remote initiatives and related commercial activities, especially for women. This is primarily because the natural resource-based industries provide a lot of wealth, income, and opportunity. This is also evident in private business, entrepreneurship, and the regular workforce, where women in the area make up a significantly smaller portion of the labor force than do males. Due to their inability to locate adequate, culturally appropriate, and regionally relevant employment opportunities, many highly skilled females continue to be housewives.
In addition to its economic benefits, female entrepreneurship is essential for attaining sustainable growth in the social and environmental spheres as well as economic diversity and sustainability. Ladies are seen as superb and unrelenting protectors of their households, communities, and culture. Nonetheless, there are far fewer chances and obstacles for women to fully realize their potential in many nations, especially in resource-rich and emerging governments.
As the twenty-first century unfolds, accelerating the realization of sustainable development goals (SDGs) has emerged as a critical worldwide priority, with the objective of tackling intricate issues ranging from the elimination of poverty to the preservation of the environment. In this context, women becoming powerful entrepreneurs is bringing about dramatic change in the environmental and Economic circumstances and domains.
A multimodal strategy for encouraging inclusive growth, innovation, and resilience within communities is embodied by the interconnection between women’s entrepreneurship and the SDGs. The inventiveness, ingenuity, and tenacity of women entrepreneurs serve as catalysts for communal justice and environmental conservation over and above being drivers of economic growth. The SDGs are being actively realized by women all across the globe who are embracing their entrepreneurial spirit and furthering the shared goal of a more equal, ecologically sound, and flourishing world.
Investigating the various ways that women-led businesses are advancing the goals of sustainable development, this study looks at the dynamic interaction between women’s entrepreneurship and the SDGs. The achievements of female entrepreneurs are significant and extensive, ranging from advocating for gender parity and strengthening underprivileged groups to developing ground-breaking approaches to ecological preservation and equitable economic development. We want to shed light on how women’s entrepreneurship may significantly advance the global agenda for sustainable development by analysing the obstacles, possibilities, and best practices in this arena.
The main intention of the study is to educate and motivate stakeholders from all sectors to utilize women’s entrepreneurship as a driving force behind the SDGs through the use of empirical findings, case studies, and policy analysis. Policies, corporate executives, and members of civil society may open up new avenues for justifiable expansion and create a further unbiassed, inclusive, and resilient world for future generations by supporting women’s entrepreneurial pursuits in a supportive atmosphere.
Globally, MSMEs are seen as the birthplaces of innovation and entrepreneurship. Not an exception applies to India. In India, Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) are widely distributed throughout the nation, producing thousands of different goods and services. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations are regarded as being largely dependent on the dynamic and adaptable nature of MSMEs [1].
In order to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this research reviews the literature on two key topics: female entrepreneurship and women-oriented sustainable entrepreneurial projects. The current area of research concentrates on womanbased enterprise, that is constrained by their underrepresentation in the labour force and in society. Through an examination of societal perceptions, responsiveness, and artistic blockades to females entrepreneurial engagements, a number of underlying causes for the underrepresentation of women in the financial and society-based spheres were found. In addition, the assessment continues to look at women’s educational and professional levels of awareness, as well as whether or not they have access to appropriate communities and mentors that support their business ventures. Additionally, we investigated whether women had equal access to financial possibilities, including incentives for successful entrepreneurship and readily inexpensive and accessible funding. The literature unequivocally demonstrates that women are actively contributing to the second part’s efforts to achieve sustainable development objectives. For sustainable economic growth, a number of social and economic initiatives must be implemented, such as making women important players in the economy
Due to its ability to upgrade the financial system, boost efficiency, and generate employment, entrepreneurship is vital to the business community and to society as a whole. Integrating female entrepreneurship with sustainability raised intriguing new issues and provided evidence for the notion that, when launching a new business, environmental responsibility and women’s awareness are related [2]. Female entrepreneurs are capable of overcoming a number of obstacles, such as establishing an atmosphere of fairness, achieving balance, guaranteeing long-term socioeconomic growth, etc. Schwartz wrote the first scholarly research on female entrepreneurship in a modern business magazine in 1976 [3]. Research indicates that women possess exceptional skills, including the capacity for innovative and creative thought, strong leadership qualities, social awareness, and a keen sense of opportunity [4]. These skills are indispensable for supplementing strength and promoting public welfare. Environmental and societal variables have an impact on the growth of entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, which are essential for female social entrepreneurs to succeed.
Undoubtedly, the efforts of female social entrepreneurs have confronted bias based on gender made a substantial contribution towards tackling societal issues, and enhanced the quality of life in their communities. The eradication of traditional attitudes, particularly those related to land ownership that impede women’s advancement, was mandated. Girls should be encouraged to pursue careers in industries controlled by males [5]. The research evaluations exchange best practices and spur more study in the field, which is crucial for the progress of social business innovations related to women in emerging nations.
Particularly for emerging nations, the development of womancentric business units and their role in the extension of the countrywide economic activities in recent years has been critical. Given the significant representation of women in society, it is clear that their involvement in the financial industry may have a significant impact on the nation’s economic growth [6]. These days, women take their lives and rights much more seriously. This has directed to a notable growth in the quantity of female entrepreneurs over the past few periods. Through their transformation from conventional housewives, they have become significant business figures with the skills and drive to manage a company on their own and overcome any obstacles in the way of turning a profit. In order to stay up with the demands of the business, these women are also pursuing several specialist degrees and hands-on courses. In addition to finding new avenues for economic engagement, they are prospering quickly as prosperous entrepreneurs. Afterwards, there are efforts to present novel elements that inspire women to start their own businesses and investigate the ways in which their entrepreneurial abilities might support the SDGs.
The worldwide business marketplaces exhibit differences in the venture-capital ownership of men and women, according to contemporary business research sources. Although the percentage of women in digital business is very small, it does help to meet the Sustainable Development Goals. Their work in the fields of education, health, ecologically friendly and sustainable production and consumption, employment for marginalized populations, digital marketing, and online commerce is indicative of this [7]. The fundamental conclusion is that empirical data and theoretical research amply demonstrate the role that women’s (digital) entrepreneurship plays in creating a more ecologically, socially, and sustainably conscious economy.
The appearance of female business-heads in recent years and their incentive to the upsurge of the nationwide economy are critical, particularly for emerging nations. Thanks to their unique employment, women are already beginning to contribute to the expansion of the economy. They have transformed from their conventional roles as housewives into significant businesspeople with the skills and drive to manage a company on their own and overcome any obstacles in the way of turning a profit. Women entrepreneurs are finding new ways to build their firms and improve their effectiveness because to the expanding ICT environment [8]. It is important to look for the driving forces for women starting their own businesses and investigate the ways in which these ventures might support sustainability.
To aid in household growth and development, women entrepreneurs create, launch, interact, and manage businesses. In an attempt to navigate the unpredictable economic landscape, women entrepreneurs begin to consider, take, and manage business risks by combining different production aspects. Through the development of new ideas, skills, and employment possibilities, entrepreneurial tasks and technological modernization are vital for the economic progression. Through the adoption of gendersensitive and sustainable entrepreneurial strategies, it has a major effect on the household’s income.
A limited number of research were subsequently carried out to identify the transitional shifts towards the execution of women entrepreneurship. These findings may be utilized as examples to help create and gain understanding of the current obstacles that prevent women from pursuing entrepreneurship. Strong commitments from a range of stakeholders, including supporters like the government and legislators, were anticipated to be crucial in bolstering and promoting the ecosystem of women entrepreneurs. Enhancing the quality of education and job opportunities may optimize the earning capacity of female entrepreneurs. It aims to promote financial autonomy by advancing innovation in line with the expansion of digital transformation in the form of technological innovations [9]. In addition to helping the UN execute the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the initiatives produced beneficial results including higher wellbeing and the creation of jobs.
With the rapid advancement of modern corporate environments, female involvement in the workforce and entrepreneurial endeavours of regional sectors have been influenced by the economic growth of company units [10]. Even though many women have far higher levels of education than males, it has been challenging for them to enter the workforce due to the state of the economy in many areas and the role that women play as domestic caregivers.
The country’s budgetary provisions and legislative initiatives supporting female entrepreneurship are examined to pinpoint several initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s workforce participation and achieving a more inclusive, gender-balanced socioeconomic growth. Numerous government departments and organizations made an effort to support women in business by looking beyond the output-oriented framework of different skill development initiatives.
Since they constitute nearly a major part of the world’s populace, women are decisive to the spreading of sustainable development agendas. Women’s entrepreneurship not only promotes economic expansion but also makes a substantial contribution to social justice, environmental preservation, and inclusive development. In promoting the SDGs, this essay examines the value of womenfocused sustainability entrepreneurship projects and emphasizes their diverse effects on the environment and society.
Women may overcome social hurdles, become financially independent, and actively participate in sustainable development through entrepreneurship. Leading female-owned businesses tackle urgent social and environmental issues in addition to creating jobs. Governments, non- governmental organizations, and companies in the private sector may enable women to become change agents in their communities by creating an environment that is favourable to female entrepreneurship.
The United Nations implemented the 2030 Agenda for Action for Sustainable Development in the year 2015, a document that establishes an authoritative worldwide agreement on efforts aimed at tackling hunger and malnutrition, establish peace and equity, remove terrible unemployment difficulties, and protect the planet’s resources. In order to address our shared and internationally interconnected difficulties, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) place a strong emphasis on the responsibilities that governments, corporations, civil society groups, and other stakeholders may play [11]. In order to assist policy makers in implementing the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs, the framework aims to develop the science- policy interaction as an evidencebased tool. They address economic, social, and environmental challenges in an integrated manner, and target the underlying causes of environmental degradation and conflicts.
In order to accomplish SDG 5, which seeks to promote gender equality and empower all women and girls, women-oriented sustainability business activities are essential. These projects help women overcome institutional hurdles and engage more successfully in economic activities by giving them access to resources, training, and mentorship. In addition, businesses run by women frequently place a high priority on gender-inclusive policies that foster workplace diversity and provide women access to opportunities in traditionally male-dominated fields. Women who practice sustainable business are better equipped to support themselves financially, eradicate poverty, and advance the economy. Through supporting women entrepreneurs, stakeholders may boost local economies, create jobs, and lessen economic inequality. Women business owners also have a higher tendency to reinvest their earnings back into their communities and families, which stimulates wider economic expansion.
The promotion of safeguarding the environment and adaptation to climate change is greatly aided by women-focused sustainability business endeavours. Women entrepreneurs reduce environmental degradation and providing help for SDGs by employing ecofriendly business practices such adopting renewable energy, reducing trash, and practicing organic farming. Furthermore, women frequently play a major role in their communities as crucial advocates for sustainable lifestyles, raising awareness and encouraging behavioural change. Women who pursue sustainable business are more equipped to tackle regional issues and promote inclusive community growth. Women entrepreneurs support Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) and Peace, Justice,and Strong Institutions (SDG 16) by starting social companies that address poverty, healthcare, and education. Moreover, social impact, equitable promotion, and social cohesiveness within varied cultural settings are given priority in women-led projects.
For a considerable time now, rural communities have been an essential part of our country’s social and economic fabric, and business ownership has been seen as one of the most important instruments for an inclusive approach to fiscal growth. For the same reasons that make it vital for towns and cities alike, entrepreneurship is crucial for remote regions as well. It is crucial that we comprehend and investigate the terrain of entrepreneurial activity in the countryside and the demographic variables associated with it, though, as it is a catalyst for wealth generation, community investments, and perhaps even resurgence.
Sustainable development is a worldwide concern that has a big impact on company owners’ strategic planning. To get a lasting competitive advantage, it is beneficial to comprehend and responsibly use the firm’s resources [12]. Despite the abundance of financial aid available to support female entrepreneurs, the establishment phase continues to be a challenging time for them due to the ingrained issues and obstacles they encounter. Furthermore, the inadequate survival rate of women-owned businesses might be attributed to many internal business problems.
Socially influential and positively impacting society, women entrepreneurs are found in both developed and developing nations [13]. To help Indian communities attain a sustainable economy, it is crucial to research how women in business might be employed and their abilities put to use. In order to achieve sustainable development, women entrepreneurs may be well-positioned to lead the way in advancing environmentally friendly business practices, social systems, and economic activities.
Sustainability transcends structural and environmental objectives, and ecological empowerment necessitates the abolition of poverty. Achieving sustainability requires both preservation of nature and economic prosperity. Technology, institutions, and resource exploitation are coordinated by healthy development. The inclusion of environmentally sound factors in the model (Figure 1) can facilitate the success of women entrepreneurs and foster the development of a more equal and sustainable ecosystem for business management.
Figure 1: Sustainable Factors Influence Model (SFIM) for Women Entrepreneurs *Source [14].
Supportive to the progress of local business enterprises in areas with low revenues is seen by a lot of scholars as a realistic growing approach for addressing poverty. Some even contend that local efforts must launch new firms in low-income regions for economic growth to be successful and that entrepreneurship is essential to the preservation of a robust economyc [15]. Investigating the connections between business and rural development, this idea is supported by current subsidies as well as grassroots efforts that highlight the existence of smaller, locally owned businesses that have the power to influence whether communities thrive or fail.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are greatly aided by monetary institutions, which focus on acknowledging the critical role that women play in advancing revenue growth and accomplishing the SDGs [16]. More awareness of the SDGs is necessary to acknowledge the significant impacts made by women entrepreneurs to the countryside and remote agriculture sectors. In addition to women-focused ventures and agricultural activities, there is an imperative to step up efforts and incorporate the SDGs into all company activities. Prioritizing inclusivenessand acceptance for women entrepreneurs is of the utmost importance for agencies and facilitators. This will enable them to reap the benefits of association formation, navigating community resources, partnering with various financial sectors, regulatory bodies, voluntary organizations, and agricultural businesses for socialization and guidance. It is also serving to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and organic farming. Sustainable development goals continue to be viewed as a hardship by plenty of startups and small-scale business owners. In businesses of all sizes, equal treatment of men and women is proactively encouraged by ways to accomplish pursuing longterm desires. Reviews revealed that although the United Nations (UN) advocates for gender equality worldwide, a considerable proportion of women employed by SMEs are not aware of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) [17]. It is suggested that monetary support and educating women to become successful company owners are essential for promoting gender equality
Notwithstanding the fact that men and women have comparable leadership philosophies, many companies continue to practice gender distinctions at the most senior positions of administration. Ever since the SDGs were introduced in 2015 and research on them has grown, it is now essential to organize current projects and pinpoint topics for future research [18]. There are several reasons for this. Limited information is currently available about how commercial units may upkeep the SDGs and how implementing them can transform industries. Attributes this to a number of causes, including the recent introduction of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the swiftly expanding and evolving worldwide economy with its social and environmental complications [19]. However, entrepreneurship has the power to change the world and get over the fact that these pressing global problems are so diversified.
Considerable implications exist for tourism concepts, operations, and guidelines from the United Nations 2030 program for acceptable growth of nations. In order to establish future plans to accelerate the UN SDGs’ development, this agenda thoroughly assesses the current state of affairs and attempts to recognize areas for improvement. Scholarly discourse on the importance of entrepreneurial activities in attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has begun in the context of sustainable tourism [20].
After feminist economists exposed the gender bias in conventional economics, neo-classical experts, who had previously seen women as unpredictable market participants, were offered the opportunity to reconsider. As part of their commitment to ending gender-based inequalities, assistance and development organizations like the World Bank and UNDP have embraced and strengthened the concept of comprehensive growth in humanity. National and region-specific policy platforms as well as humanitarian assistance initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) clearly articulate the idea. This has led to a greater recognition of the expanding roles that female entrepreneurs play in economic growth. With initiatives and legislative initiatives that emphasize women’s entrepreneurship and self-determination, federal departments take steps to grow. In order to promote the growth of entrepreneurship, the government looked at proximal similarities via a variety of gendered strategies and programs. Using a comprehensive and process-oriented approach, the encounters revealed the need for gendered transformative entrepreneurship [21]. Based on complementing growth routes and learning environments, the studies demonstrate the importance of the legislative and regulatory platforms that are now in place for women entrepreneurs in tackling difficulties related to national development.
Research efforts have been attempted to find out how women’s entrepreneurship affects the achievement of goals for sustainable growth in various global locations. According to the reviews, women’s entrepreneurship significantly contributes to poverty just as evidence of sustainable development, and its beneficial effect on lowering poverty levels is practically small [22]. As for women’s success in business ownership, it is likewise marginal.
Actively combating gender disparities and unequal access in the marketplace would be advantageous for the government. With a prominence on womenfolk entrepreneurs in specific, it is advised to support entrepreneurship workshops, seminars, and conferences in collaboration with state and municipal governments. This program seeks to help those who are employed by small initiatives and to encourage the construction of new ones.
The uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in health and well-being have sufficiently portrayed the field of female well-being when we objectively evaluate the contributions of technological advances. The United Nations has identified the gender equality and health sustainability goals (SDGs) and this would be pertinent to reaching and expediting those objectives [23]. Future deployment should be prioritized as it can improve the effectiveness of well-informed health decisions and make it especially available to women living in remote or underserved areas. Women are viewed as more active agents of transformation in the contemporary social order. Women and gender roles can be changed by their interests because of their active participation in promoting societal changes. Women have a significant impact on societal shifts, innovation, and the creative thinking process, therefore a rise in their involvement helps society as a whole in addition to benefiting women generally [24]. As to the United Nations (2015), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are an international initiative aimed at eradicating poverty, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring that everyone lives in peace and prosperity. Through creative approaches, these goals are promoted to mitigate disparities and enhance overall well-being.
The fulfilment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) pertaining to livelihoods, social safety nets, financial capabilities, and endurance can be significantly impacted by microentrepreneurship of women (MEW) in a functional setting [25]. In order to fully understand the connection between small-scale business women and the accomplishment of SDG goals, it will be necessary to look at the cultural context of women, according to the literature study on the topic. Obtaining financial resources and generating revenue are two of the outcomes of micro women entrepreneurship that go hand in hand with reaching SDG objectives.
The involvement of conventional corporations has proven to be insufficient at this stage, regardless of the United Nations’ efforts to include the entire private and public supporters towards the accomplishment of the 2030 Agenda. In order to address society’s requirements through business possibilities, social enterprises have become a viable choice [26]. But more concerning than the sustainability aspects is the lack of specialized instruments to evaluate how countryside establishments linked to the accomplishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The difficulties encountered by small and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs), which make sure that daily operations maintain ethical standards of usage and manufacturing, will become clear when we examine the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and entrepreneurial activities from an economic and social perspective [27]. As a “good corporate citizen,” the SME might take on the duty of protecting the environment for subsequent generationsand considering the welfare of society as a whole.
Research has looked into how women’s inventiveness and entrepreneurial endeavours contribute to family earnings under the difficult circumstances of the epidemic. Covid-19. It placed special emphasis on figuring out what factors influence how much the family’s revenue has been earned by female entrepreneurs. The review’s conclusions showed that, compared to urban regions, rural areas’ impulsive earning contributed much more to household income [28]. The analysis indicates the value of regulations regarding gender discrimination in both public and commercial entities. In addition, promoting a spirit of enterprise among women in the nation would raise household income. The gender equality (GE) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), decent employment, and economic growth are all closely related to the study’s conclusions and policy consequences.
To analyses in what manner the COVID-19 outbreak had consequences on the sustainable development goals (SDGS), an extensive repository of academic research was reviewed. A worldwide call for reform to eradicate poverty, reduce the gender gap, save the environment, and enhance the importance of healthy life for all individuals is represented by means of the Sustainable Development Goals. Notwithstanding, the COVID-19 pandemic crisis has represented a paradigm shift in the attainment of these objectives, given its far-reaching implications on the monetary, political, and cultural background representations [29]. Research efforts on the implications of professional interpersonal relationships, familial reinforcement, and social dominance approach on women have been conducted in copious amounts. Examining the role that entrepreneurial dedication and enthusiasm play as mediators between growth restrictions and the understanding of entrepreneurial aim were also helpful. The past several years has seen a significant increase in attention paid to women’s contributions to economic growth. To attain the sustainable development goal (SDG), it is therefore noteworthy to comprehend the growth obstructions that affect women’s entrepreneurship intents. The findings demonstrate the strong influence of social networking on the intention and perseverance of entrepreneurship. The encouragement of household support and monetary availability on the tenacity, enthusiasm, and intention of entrepreneurs is negligible [30].
An organized strategy and a comprehensive framework that incorporates many characteristics are used in the research framework for the study on “women entrepreneurship and SDG” to examine how women’s entrepreneurship and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) interact. In order to ensure integrity and consistency in the research’s conceptualization and accomplishment, this framework offers a structured methodology for doing research concerning women entrepreneurship and SDGs.
Data on women entrepreneurs’ participation in SDG-related activities, perceived effect, and problems encountered were gathered through a survey conducted during the quantitative phase. To guarantee representation across all industries and geographical areas, a stratified random selection approach was employed. To obtain an understanding of the social dimensions of women entrepreneurship and its correlation with the Sustainable Development Goals, the qualitative approaches involve semistructured interviews with important stakeholders such as policymakers, women entrepreneurs, and representatives from non-governmental organizations. Seventy-two respondents with relevant experience and knowledge in women’s entrepreneurship and sustainable development were chosen via the use of purposeful sampling. Data from micro women entrepreneurs around the nation were gathered using semi-structured surveys and a mixed technique approach.
The study has discovered many elements that encourage women to become entrepreneurs as well as the main obstacles they confront in the nation by way of observations and analysis of data gathered. A greater comprehension of how women’s finance-related upgrading and entrepreneurship are greatly advancing the achievement of the SDGs is provided by the study. However conducting interviews to a responder, all ethical considerations were made. In order to carry out the discussions in confidentiality, the researcher first got the respondents’ agreement before meeting with them in person at their residences and places of employment. The study goals as well as associated references were taken into consideration when creating a structured questionnaire. The views, experiences, and insights of participants about women entrepreneurs and the SDGs were investigated through the use of semi-structured interview schedules. Findings from the study indicate that obtaining financial resources and generating revenues are closely associated with micro women entrepreneurs. Without the considerable influence of cultural elements, these goals are unachievable.
The results of the research work show that women are extra credible to start enterprises created on their education, expertise, perceived value, level of reliability of services, and environmental effect. It is good for the environment to have female entrepreneurs engaged in sustainability initiatives because they foster the sharing of female competencies (innovative thinking, new ideas, and adaptability) in the workers and raise the likelihood of creating plans to prevent exploitation and promote supportable practices. Achieving the objectives outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals and expanding the economic status in a steady and sustainable method depend on this. The tourist sector and sustainable development were discovered to be closely related, and the writer has assessed the variables influencing such endeavours. Furthermore, author indicate that there are differences between genders in entrepreneurship, particularly when it comes to works that are sustainable. The current theoretical framework for defining female entrepreneurship has to be updated to examine if the environmental approach can be included and to explicitly take into account women’s understanding of environmental and social innovation prospects.
Women should be encouraged to pursue environmentally friendly businesses since they possess qualities such as motives, principles, consciousness, and approach to society. Determining a viable post-carbon environment will require the backing of both national and international administrations. Additionally, it is necessary to expand the possibility of the study that is already accessible to address sustainable entrepreneurship, taking into account both seasoned and novice entrepreneurs as well as the sector in which the business endeavour is produced. Owing to the distinctiveness of the subject, the available investigation on female entrepreneurship and sustainability is still in its infancy. To sustain the resources is a crucial subject in the operations carried out, nevertheless, since there is verification to suggest that women are worried about the prospects for the environment. Women who own companies in the local region confront several obstacles (Figure 2). It encompasses preconceptions and assumptions regarding gender, restricted possibilities for collaboration, unfair treatment in the marketplace, obligations from families and society, and many other of additional problems.
The majority of respondents believe that family and social expectations are the most significant difficulty that women entrepreneurs face.
Several variables were proposed to explain the impetus of women’s entrepreneurship on the country’s economy (Figure 3), including Civic Enhancement Initiatives, Creative thinking and Cultural diversity, foreign investments and collaborations, increased employment and financial security, and Gender Representation and Emancipation.
The influence of female entrepreneurs (Figure 4) on the local economy is heavily reliant upon job growth and economic stability, as indicated by 37.5%, then followed by community development initiatives (25.0%).
People in business frequently stimulate imaginative thinking and develop innovative solutions to social, environmental, and economic issues. Entrepreneurs may effectively assist in achieving the SDGs by launching firms that promote sustainability, diversity, and principles of integrity. Entrepreneurs may also persuade bigger organizations and sectors to embrace healthier for the environment techniques via their inventions and leadership.
Administrators, business organizations, and other beneficiaries may make substantial contributions to achieving the SDGs by facilitating and boosting entrepreneurial initiatives. There are multiple mechanisms in which entrepreneurial activities could be beneficial to accomplish the SDGs (Figure 6), especially when considering the realm of environmental sustainability. Education and skill development, environmental sustainability, innovation and technology, responsible business practices, social entrepreneurship, and so on are some examples.
Among the options provided, respondents regarded Education and Skill Development (26.4%) as the most essential, followed by Environmental Sustainability (23.6%) and Social Entrepreneurship (22.2%).
Entrepreneurship among women is an enormous catalyst for promoting inclusive growth and achieving the SDGs (Figure 7). As promoters for equality between genders emphasize the crucial role of empowering females economically, it rapidly becomes obvious that women entrepreneurs not only drive the growth of the economy but also make major contributions to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A significant percentage of respondents agree that societal inclusion to promote health and well-being (25.0%) and sustainable infrastructure and industrialization (22.2%) are the two most important particular contributions made by women entrepreneurs to working toward SDGs.
Women entrepreneurs perform an important role in accelerating the exactness of humanity and creating a more fair and environmentally friendly society, from poverty reduction and gender equality to ensuring ecological sustainability and diversified economic development. To optimize the effect of women’s entrepreneurship, institutional impediments must be addressed, supporting initiatives and funding opportunities must be promoted, and a conducive atmosphere must be created that allows women to discover their creative abilities. Making investments in women’s entrepreneurship may open up new potential for advancement, creativity, and transformation in society, eventually strengthening a worldwide vision for sustainable development.
The India government has implemented a number of directives and efforts to strengthen encouragement for women entrepreneurs along with contributing to the SDGs. Government acknowledges the value of women’s financial independence and its role in accomplishing long- term development goals. India intends to take advantage of the skills and abilities of the country’s its residents to promote financial stability while adding to an equally prosperous and sustainable society by developing laws and initiatives that encourage women entrepreneurs. However, the efficacy of these programs would need more investigation, taking into account aspects such as operational obstacles, impact estimations, and continual encouragement frameworks.
Respondents took an interest in finding out how they make certain their entrepreneurial operations are aligned with ethical business practices and hence support to the SDGs (Figure 8).
Respondents reported that familiarizing with the 17 SDGs and their fundamental goals (35%) and incorporating the selected SDGs into the company’s overall strategy (23.6%) are the most compatible strategies to achieve sustainability
Women are catalyzing good improvements in society and the environment by embracing sustainability in their entrepreneurial activities, in addition to generating new ideas in business. Many improvements are anticipated in the scenario of women’s entrepreneurship in terms of achieving the SDGs (Figure 9).
The key adaptations proposed by respondents are making it easier for women by means of expertise and ability advancement at 31.9% and improved recognition and support for women at 26.4%. Women entrepreneurs have a transformational impact on furthering sustainable concepts and making a difference to the accomplishment of the SDGs. Their efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy that balances monetary stability, environmental care, and accountability to society.
Women entrepreneurs frequently confront particular hurdles, such as inadequate possibilities for capital, marketplaces and supplies, as well as social and gender discrimination. Understanding these limitations, some groups have launched focused initiatives to help and develop female entrepreneurs. Numerous national and international organizations, as well as governance, have launched policies to assist women entrepreneurs to help their endeavours to make a difference to resource sustainability and meet the SDGs (Figure 10).
Respondents indicated two key techniques for organizational and policymaker assistance for women entrepreneurs: arranging networking events to meet with possible accomplices (23.6%) and giving additional financial opportunities (22.2%). Supportive programs and social gatherings furthermore offer women entrepreneurs great opportunity to obtain guidance from highly successful individuals, share expertise, and get acquainted with the resources necessary for company success. Authorities, commercial entities, and nonprofit organizations have collaborated to create channels and programs that connect women-owned enterprises to possible clientele, investors, and associates. Industrial events, corporate meetings, and digital selling sites specialized to female entrepreneurs, for example, have arisen as platforms for promoting their products and services to a larger audience.
The reforms that have been suggested regarding women’s entrepreneurship have substantial potential for empowering women, highlighting prosperity in the economy, and stimulating creativity. Communities can unleash women’s potential for entrepreneurship and take advantage of their abilities to handle difficult issues and capitalize on fresh possibilities by supplying them with the appropriate training, assets, and assistance. Breaking preconceptions, supporting inclusive development, and removing institutional hurdles are all critical steps toward a future in which women entrepreneurs play a major role in crafting a more wealthy, equitable, and sustainable society
Incorporating revolutionary ideas and utilization of technological developments are critical factors in facilitating women entrepreneurs towards sustainable development. Campaigns encouraging knowledge of digital technology, online shopping skills, and the utilization of technological tools have helped women to break down old boundaries, enter new markets, automate business processes, and increase work efficiency. Furthermore, incubation centres and startups geared toward women-led enterprises have developed as facilitators for developing entrepreneurial talent and cultivating an innovative culture.
In the last few years, there seems to have an increased understanding of the vital part that women business leaders undertake in achieving sustainable development. Women entrepreneurs not only generate the economy to thrive, however they also make a substantial contribution to reaching the Sustainable Development Goals. Considering their potential, women entrepreneurs tend to encounter various barriers to their complete economic involvement:
In order to address cultural constraints to women’s entrepreneurship, train families concerning women’s vital roles in society at large and the financial system. There is an urgent requirement for awareness in society in order to break through traditional perspectives and promote and recognize the monetary and communal roles of women at home and in the societal structure. Additionally, it is necessary to endorse women’s vigorous participation and actions in their individual cultures by recognizing the enormous help of various representations. The outstanding individuals in addition to important administrative members can serve as motivating models of how to be a successful business while also contributing to society.
Offering guidance for female entrepreneurs in pre-identified, high-potential, and diverse industry sectors. There ought to be mechanisms in place for recognizing industries that are highlighted for financial diversity and are ideal for female entrepreneurship. A certain training centres should be dominated by women, since some women might appear more at ease and like enhanced instructional conditions.
Create a collaborative organization for female entrepreneurs and beneficiaries to encourage idea sharing and free mentoring. Local women should be recommended to launch new businesses, and they can share their experience and abilities to recognize societal requirements and promote prospective initiatives. They may additionally supply the necessary mentorship services for authorized enterprises.
Exposure to effortlessly accessible and cost-effective entrepreneurial monetary support for women: There is a pressing requirement to dedicate financial channels aimed toward women entrepreneurs, as well as other female investors.
Entrepreneurial techniques that must adhere to indigenous customs and patterns, while they think there is an additional requirement to raise realization and provide guidance in order to make beneficial contributions to society. There are some female participants who are eager to train as entrepreneurial financiers in order to support other business start-ups, collaborate with other women, offer their talents to society, and make improvements to the overall resilience of the area in which they live.
In broad terms, the enduring shortage of inspirational figures for woman entrepreneurs is fading, and there is a lot of skill in commercial pursuits. It is critical to leverage female qualities in order to establish enterprises that can in accordance with the SDGs. The importance of women in the field of small-scale business units in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cannot be emphasized. Their efforts range from supporting equal opportunities for women and financial independence to encouraging creative thinking and environmental sustainability. By allowing women to fully engage in entrepreneurship, we liberate an abundant source of abilities, innovation, and perseverance, propelling advancement toward a happier, healthier, and more equitable future for everybody.
In our efforts to look for towards achieving the SDGs, we must identify and promote female entrepreneurs by offering them the appropriate tools, chances for growth, and associations they require to prosper. Their governance not only promotes economic progress, but it also has advantageous social and environmental consequences, producing an upstream effect that helps communities throughout the world. Women entrepreneurs make major contributions to economic growth, social advancement, and environmental sustainability, playing a key part in reaching the SDGs.
Women’s entrepreneurial endeavours nurture job opportunities, inspire creativity, and stimulate balanced economic growth. Furthermore, these enterprises frequently promote social and environmental goals, which closely match with the key concepts of sustainability. Despite their enormous potential, women entrepreneurs continue to encounter a number of hurdles, including restricted access to financing, insufficient support systems, and cultural impediments. Addressing these difficulties would need collaborative efforts from governments, corporations, and civil society to establish an enabling climate that empowers women entrepreneurs and encourages their active engagement in sustainable development activities.
We may stimulate efforts concerning the SDGs by honouring and encouraging the achievements of women entrepreneurs, resulting in a more equal, successful, and long-term existence for everyone. By leveraging the potential of women entrepreneurs, we not only move toward the SDGs, but also set the road for a more equal and affluent world. Let us move forward to support their efforts, celebrate their accomplishments, and envision a future in which women entrepreneurs lead a healthy environment business operation.
