PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN MSME SECTOR: A STUDY IN KALABURGI DISTRICT

This study examines the participation of women entrepreneurs in the MSME sector in Kalaburagi district of North Karnataka, focusing on enterprise characteristics, employment generation, and key challenges. Based on primary data from 350 women entrepreneurs and analysed using descriptive statistics, One-Way ANOVA and Chi-square tests, the findings show that most women operate micro and small enterprises in the service and trading sectors with modest investment and turnover. The results confirm that sector of enterprise significantly influences employment generation, while educational qualification affects business performance. Major constraints include complex financial procedures and limited awareness of support schemes. The study emphasizes the need for simplified financial access, skill development, and targeted policy interventions to promote sustainable women entrepreneurship. Keywords: Women Entrepreneurship, MSMEs, Employment Generation, Financial Access, Education, Regional Development, Kalaburagi District.