Women in Social Entrepreneurship: Barriers, Enablers, and Success Stories

Ayachi Bertozzi^*
*Correspondence: Ayachi Bertozzi, Centre for Development Studies and Entrepreneurship, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom, Email:

Introduction

Women in social entrepreneurship are playing an increasingly significant role in driving innovative solutions to some of societyâ??s most pressing challenges. Combining entrepreneurial skills with a deep commitment to social impact, women leaders are creating ventures that address issues such as poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, environmental sustainability and gender equality. Their approach often emphasizes community engagement, inclusivity and long-term empowerment, making them catalysts for transformative change. In many regions, particularly in developing economies, women-led social enterprises are helping to bridge gaps in services and opportunities for marginalized groups. However, women social entrepreneurs frequently face unique barriers, including limited access to funding, restrictive cultural norms, gender bias and the challenge of balancing business demands with family responsibilities. At the same time, supportive networks, mentorship programs, enabling government policies and the rise of digital platforms have created new opportunities for women to start and scale their ventures. Global recognition of womenâ??s contributions to social entrepreneurship is growing and their success stories are inspiring a new generation of change-makers. Understanding both the challenges they encounter and the enablers that help them thrive is essential for building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that maximizes their potential [1-2].

Description

Women in social entrepreneurship are reshaping the way business and social impact intersect, using innovative approaches to address deep-rooted societal challenges. Across the globe, women-led social enterprises are tackling critical issues such as healthcare accessibility, quality education, poverty reduction, environmental conservation and gender-based discrimination. These ventures often prioritize community-driven solutions, empathy-led leadership and sustainable development, creating long-term positive change. However, despite their growing presence, women social entrepreneurs face persistent structural and cultural barriers. Limited access to financial resources is one of the most significant challenges, as women often encounter bias from investors, have fewer networking opportunities and may lack collateral for loans. In many societies, restrictive gender norms and stereotypes undermine their credibility and hinder their ability to lead and scale businesses. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with family and caregiving responsibilities adds another layer of complexity, especially in cultures where women are expected to prioritize domestic roles. Furthermore, the absence of tailored training programs and mentorship opportunities can limit their business development skills and confidence [3]. On the other hand, several enablers have emerged to support women in social entrepreneurship. The rise of digital platforms has opened up new channels for marketing, fundraising and community engagement, allowing women entrepreneurs to bypass traditional barriers. Global and local networks, incubators and accelerator programs specifically designed for women are fostering peer learning, mentorship and access to capital. Government policies promoting gender equality, financial inclusion and social enterprise development have also contributed to creating a more enabling environment. Success stories of women social entrepreneurs ranging from microfinance pioneers to tech innovators addressing social needs serve as powerful examples of resilience, creativity and leadership. These narratives not only inspire other women to pursue similar paths but also challenge prevailing gender norms by showcasing women as capable and visionary leaders. By recognizing both the barriers and the enablers, stakeholders can work toward an ecosystem where womenâ??s contributions to social entrepreneurship are valued, supported and scaled. Ultimately, empowering women in this space is not only a matter of gender equality but also a strategic investment in sustainable and inclusive development [4-5].

Conclusion

In conclusion, women in social entrepreneurship are proving to be powerful agents of change, combining innovation, empathy and resilience to address some of the worldâ??s most pressing social challenges. While they continue to face significant barriers such as limited funding access, gender bias and societal expectations, the growth of supportive networks, digital tools and gender-inclusive policies is steadily expanding their opportunities. Their success stories highlight not only their ability to overcome obstacles but also the transformative impact they can have on communities and economies. Empowering women in social entrepreneurship is therefore both a moral imperative and an economic necessity, as it leads to more inclusive solutions, stronger communities and sustainable growth. By fostering equitable access to resources, mentorship and policy support, societies can unlock the full potential of women-led social enterprises, ensuring that their vision and leadership drive meaningful change for generations to come.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

References

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