Comparative Analysis of Gender-Inclusive Incubation and Entrepreneurship Education for MSMEs in South and Southeast Asia

This chapter presents a comparative analysis of gender-inclusive practices in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) incubation and entrepreneurship education across five countries—India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. It explores two main questions: How do these countries design and implement gender-inclusive incubation and entrepreneurship education? And which best practices and enduring gaps emerge in different contexts? The analysis draws on policy documents, NGO and international reports, academic studies, and programme databases, using an entrepreneurial ecosystem and gendered institutions framework. The findings show that, although strong policy commitments and innovative programme models exist, women entrepreneurs continue to face barriers in accessing finance, mentorship, and tailored learning opportunities. The chapter highlights effective models, identifies persistent challenges, and offers practical recommendations to strengthen women’s participation in MSME ecosystems and advance gender-inclusive policy and practice in the region.