Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Bridging Gender Gaps through Digital Platforms and Support Systems
in: The Transformation in Women Entrepreneurship in the Digital Era, NOVA Publications , pp.219-234, 2026
- Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Research Book
- Publication Date: 2026
- Publisher: NOVA Publications
- Page Numbers: pp.219-234
- Keywords: digital platforms, empowerment, gender inequality, hybrid support systems, inclusive ecosystems, women entrepreneurship
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Women’s entrepreneurship is increasingly recognized as a key driver of economic growth and social development. However, women entrepreneurs continue to face multilayered challenges, such as limited market access, digital illiteracy, financial constraints, and fragmented institutional support. This chapter explores the transformative role of digital platforms and hybrid support systems—integrating familial, communal, and institutional frameworks—in overcoming these gender-based barriers. Digital tools, such as e-commerce and online networking platforms, enable women to bypass mobility restrictions and traditional gender roles, thereby increasing their visibility and market access. Yet, disparities in digital inclusion remain a persistent issue. Familial and communal support play a crucial role in maintaining work-family balance, particularly within patriarchal societies, while institutional programs serve as vital complements. Ultimately, this chapter proposes an integrated entrepreneurial ecosystem that combines technological and social support structures, aiming to cultivate a more inclusive and resilient environment for women entrepreneurs.