Gender and Entrepreneurship in Developing Economies

Abstract

This chapter begins with a brief exploration of the importance of entrepreneurial activity as a driver of global economic growth. The importance of entrepreneurship in developing economies is examined as are the traits, motivations, and drivers of entrepreneurs and the economic, social, cultural, legislative, and regulatory circumstances that encourage and in some cases discourage entrepreneurial activity. The impact of entrepreneurship training and education on encouraging women entrepreneurs is examined, the relative importance of women entrepreneurs is examined, and emphasis is placed on the relatively greater difficulties that are faced by women entrepreneurs particularly in regards to obtaining funding for starting new ventures. Opportunities are identified that may useful for policy makers, investors, and those that may seek to promote social entrepreneurship and economic growth in developing economies.