Prevailing factors of rural women entrepreneurship in Bangladesh: evidence from handicraft business

Rural women have possessed the ability to create an entrepreneurial culture in the less developed societies of Bangladesh. They contribute to the economy through self-employment and employment opportunities for other deprived women. This study explores the crucial personal and psychological factors of rural women entrepreneurs (RWEs). This study used a qualitative research methodology and followed a convenient sampling technique to interview 21 RWEs. This study reveals the personal and psychological factors, including economic and noneconomic motivation, risk-taking confidence, the urge for recognition, decision-making ability, passion, and creative design-making skills. These factors influence their willpower to enter the business world and successfully operate their business. The result also indicates that inadequate facilities and unorganized programs of supportive institutions generate financial, technical, and promotional complexities for the RWEs in the handicraft sector. As a result, their businesses become vulnerable compared to other urban business holders. Ultimately, these barriers negatively impact the RWEs to continue their business satisfactorily. The critical findings will apply to other handicrafts and SME sectors from the Bangladesh perspective.