Scope and Challenges in the Management of Women-led SMEs

Abstract

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) run by women are becoming more and more important for economic growth, job creation, and social development. These businesses still have a unique set of problems that make it hard for them to do well and stay in business for a long time, even though they have a lot of potential. This article looks at the range and contributions of women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) while also critically looking at the many problems they confront when it comes to management and growth. Utilising contemporary literature and empirical data, the study underscores enduring obstacles, including restricted financial access, gender biases within entrepreneurial ecosystems, limited market connections, insufficient managerial training, and pressures related to work–life balance. It also looks at new options that can make businesses more competitive and resilient, such as digitalisation, supporting governmental frameworks, and business networks for women. The paper stresses the importance of focused interventions, inclusive legislation, and capacity-building programmes to help women become better entrepreneurs. The report lays the groundwork for stakeholders to come up with plans that will help women-led small and medium-sized businesses develop and stay in business by talking about both the opportunities and the problems.