Challenges and Opportunities of Women Entrepreneurs in Karnataka: A Study of Shivamogga District

Abstract

Women entrepreneurship has emerged as an important contributor to economic development, employment generation, and social transformation in India. The increasing participation of women in entrepreneurial activities has strengthened local economies and enhanced financial independence among women. However, women entrepreneurs continue to face several challenges, including limited access to finance, inadequate managerial training, market competition, technological constraints, family responsibilities, and lack of institutional support. The present study examines the major challenges and growth opportunities of women entrepreneurs in Shivamogga district, Karnataka. The study is based on primary data collected from 180 women entrepreneurs engaged in manufacturing, trading, and service sectors through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, percentage analysis, and weighted mean ranking techniques were used for data analysis. The findings reveal that financial constraints, marketing difficulties, limited business networks, and work-life balance are the major obstacles affecting entrepreneurial performance. At the same time, digital marketing, government support schemes, skill development programmes, and increasing consumer demand offer significant growth opportunities. The study concludes that strengthening financial access, entrepreneurial training, digital literacy, and institutional support can substantially improve the sustainability and success of women-owned enterprises in the region.