Women entrepreneurs navigate diverse paths to success, driven by necessity or opportunity. For some, entrepreneurship arises from challenging circumstances. Rina Akter in Bangladesh started a tailoring business to provide for her daughters, while Ou Sokphanna in Cambodia turned to handicrafts to overcome discrimination and support her family.
In contrast, opportunity-driven entrepreneurs identify gaps to innovate and scale. Tran Khanh Dung, founder of the tech startup Rayo, developed web solutions for persons with disabilities. Similarly, Shristi Shrestha launched a company producing biodegradable sanitary pads, combining business with environmental and social impact in Nepal.
Necessity-driven ventures often operate in informal sectors and prioritize survival, while opportunity-driven businesses aim for growth and innovation. Both face challenges, with necessity entrepreneurs often lacking social protection and financial resources, and opportunity-driven founders encountering barriers to funding, networks, and market access. Globally, women-led MSMEs face a $1.7 trillion finance gap, illustrating the systemic hurdles.
Tailored support is essential. Necessity entrepreneurs benefit from community engagement and financial inclusion, while opportunity-driven founders require access to capital, mentorship, and efforts to tackle gender bias in investment. Investing in women-led enterprises has untapped potential to fuel inclusive economic growth, advance gender equality, and create lasting societal change.
