How can we create equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems that truly empower women in developing economies?

In Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Developing Economies, Miray Barsoum offers a comprehensive framework to understand and foster the empowerment of women entrepreneurs. Using Egypt as a case study, this book introduces the WEMPOWERMENT model, which outlines the key stages of empowerment—pre-conditions, processes, and outcomes—while examining the personal, societal, and ecosystem factors that influence women’s entrepreneurial journeys. From confidence gaps and skills development to societal gender norms and barriers in finance and policy, the book provides actionable insights for building supportive ecosystems that enable women’s sustainable success.

Drawing on firsthand interviews with women entrepreneurs and ecosystem experts, WEMPOWERMENT highlights strategies for engaging a broad range of ecosystem players, including policymakers, financial institutions, support organizations, and academic institutions, to drive transformative changes. This work provides a vital guide for creating inclusive, equitable ecosystems that empower women entrepreneurs across Egypt, the MENA region, and other developing economies.

Ideal for students in entrepreneurship, business management, development studies, and gender studies, as well as anyone interested in fostering sustainable empowerment for women entrepreneurs in developing economies.

Miray Barsoum is an expert in entrepreneurship and gender studies, specializing in the empowerment of women entrepreneurs in developing economies, with a focus on the MENA region and Egypt.