Unfolding the issues and prospects of women entrepreneurs: evidence from the context of Islamic country

Abstract

Now-a-days, entrepreneurship has gotten increasing importance in a modern competitive economy and its contribution recognized worldwide. The study unfolded and highlighted the issues and prospects of women entrepreneurs in the context of Islamic country. Women entrepreneurship work-life issues and prospects are important aspects in the context of social structure of Pakistan. The study is important because it tries to attempt what real problems have been faced by women entrepreneurs due to education, religion, societal customs, and cultural differences in Pakistan compared to western culture. Moreover, the study conducted to unfold issues in the light of socio-cultural norms and sub cultural differences in Pakistan. Scant research studies have been conducted to investigate the issues of women entrepreneurs using quantitative data collection and analyses methods. The research data have been collected from 153 women entrepreneurs using structured questionnaires and purposive sampling technique. Findings reveal that women entrepreneurs have lack of access to business premises, capital, training/skills, information technology, shame, honor, and veil that impact negatively on women professional career. Finally, prospects of women entrepreneurs are also discussed in this study.