A comparative study of urban and rural female entrepreneurs of Bangladesh—challenges and prospects

Abstract

In Bangladesh (BD), women entrepreneurship is rapidly expanding in both rural and urban areas. This research examines the landscape of rural and urban women entrepreneurs in BD, focusing on their perceived competencies, capabilities, and opportunities. This research also identifies the key challenges and factors that hinder the growth of women entrepreneurship in the country. Both rural and urban women in BD are involved in several micro, medium, and small enterprises. However, they face significant obstacles in a male-dominated society. Other factors negatively impacting women entrepreneurs include a dynamic, competitive, and interconnected economic system, the overall business environment, national strategies, assistance from nongovernmental organizations, and the involvement of credit companies. Women in both rural and urban areas aspire to improve their quality of life and gain greater respect within their households and communities. Yet, several barriers still impede the development of women entrepreneurship in BD, such as limited access to credit, restricted access to market information, a lack of knowledge, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient utility services, outdated technology, and bureaucratic complexities. In this research, the author utilized regression analysis, chi-square tests, and independent t-tests to assess the impact of various factors on women entrepreneurship in BD.