Missing catalysts of female entrepreneurship success: Evidence from an emerging economy

Abstract

There is no denying that female entrepreneurship success has been making a significant impact on the world. Females now own businesses at a rate that surpasses males, and they are also leading the way in many industries. At the same time, extant literature indicates that female entrepreneurship success is low compared to male counterparts. Concerning enriching the literature, this study aimed to explore the missing catalysts of female entrepreneurship success in a developing country perspective, Bangladesh. Using a purposive sampling strategy, the researchers used semi-structured interviews to collect data from 14 participants, including female entrepreneurs and professors of entrepreneurs. Collected data were thematically analyzed. The study's findings are concurrent with the previous literature, while it also provides some new insights relating to the catalysts for business success among female entrepreneurs. The study has found that networking, digital leadership, institutional supports, childcare centers, healthcare systems, and secure transportation are the missing catalysts for female entrepreneurship success in Bangladesh. The study concludes with implications for females’ entrepreneurial journey with regards to theory, practice, and future directions.