Women Entrepreneurship in Rupandehi: Challenges, Opportunities, and Policy Interventions

This study investigates the Challenges, Opportunities, and Policy Interventions of women entrepreneurs in Rupandehi district of Nepal. Country like Nepal, developing economies, women entrepreneurs often face unique obstacles, and this study seeks to provide empirical evidence specific to this area. According to data from the Cottage and Small Industries Office Rupandehi district 6,863 out of 17,453 registered firms were owned by women. Using a quantitative survey of 400 women entrepreneurs, supplemented by relevant secondary data from government sources, the study analyses demographic profiles, business characteristics, key constraints, and determinants of business performance. This data source allows for a comprehensive understanding of the research problem. Key findings reveal that limited access to financial resources, socio-cultural norms, and skill deficiencies constitute significant barriers to entrepreneurial success. Conversely, emerging opportunities in digital and local market expansion, coupled with government initiatives focused on gender equality, present potential avenues for growth. This study critically highlighting their strengths, assesses existing policy interventions, and critically highlighting their weaknesses in addressing the identified challenges. The findings of this research provide a number of recommendations regarding the mechanisms and policies that can be implemented with a view to building a more conducive ecosystem for women entrepreneurs and their economic empowerment in developing country contexts. These recommendations are intended for practitioners and designers who may be in a position to adopt and implement relevant mechanisms and policies, especially policymakers, NGOs and other support agencies interested in entrepreneurship.