Entrepreneurship as a driver of rural women's empowerment in Iran

Entrepreneurship is a key driver of empowerment, particularly in rural areas, as it creates opportunities for self-sufficiency and sustainable development. It enables individuals to overcome barriers, build capacity, and engage in participatory activities that foster economic and social growth. This study aimed to analyze entrepreneurship and the empowerment of rural women, as well as the factors influencing their empowerment. A quantitative approach was employed using a survey method in Fars Province, Iran. Stratified random sampling was applied, and the sample consisted of 393 rural women. Data were collected through questionnaires, with face validity and reliability confirmed by university professors, and a pilot study conducted prior to the main survey. Data analysis was performed using SPSS25, SmartPLS3, and AMOS21 software. The results indicated that both entrepreneurial spirit and entrepreneurial activities significantly influenced the empowerment of women entrepreneurs. Additionally, factors such as entrepreneurial motivation, social capital, entrepreneurial knowledge, and social networks were found to significantly impact rural women's empowerment. Entrepreneurial women in Marvdasht County serve as role models for other rural women due to their strong entrepreneurial motivation and business success. The study recommends offering educational programs focused on cognitive factors and enhancing social networks as essential strategies to empower entrepreneurial activities among rural women.