Abstract

Breaking Barriers: Socio-Cultural Challenges Faced by Women Entrepreneurs in the National Capital Region

Ayoni Gupta

Volume: 15 Issue: 2 2025

Abstract:

There exists a complex web of socio-cultural barriers that women entrepreneurs encounter in their professional journeys. Despite growing policy attention and increasing numbers of women entering the entrepreneurial ecosystem, deep-rooted societal norms and cultural expectations continue to impede their progress. This research employs a qualitative approach, using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) as the primary methodology to gain in-depth insights into the lived experiences of women entrepreneurs. A total of 30 women entrepreneurs from diverse industries across the National Capital Region (NCR) participated in the study. The participants, selected through purposive sampling, represented a range of ages, business sectors, and socio-economic backgrounds. The discussions were structured around themes such as gender stereotypes, family expectations, access to resources, work-life balance, and social perceptions of women-led businesses. The findings reveal that socio-cultural expectations remain a significant obstacle for women entrepreneurs, where women find it challenging to navigate male-dominated networks, balancing domestic responsibilities with business demands, and overcome scepticism about their capabilities. Additionally, several women reported facing difficulties in securing funding, often linked to biases against women-led ventures. This paper concludes by emphasizing the need for targeted policy interventions, mentorship programs, and awareness campaigns to create a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. By foregrounding the voices of women themselves, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics shaping female entrepreneurship in urban India and underscores the importance of structural and attitudinal shifts in fostering gender equity in business.

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