Enhancing Women’s Entrepreneurship in Rural Ecuador: A Study Protocol Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals

Angélica-María Sánchez-Riofrío (), Marco Faytong-Haro, Olga Roa and Jonathan Valderrama-Álvarez
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Angélica-María Sánchez-Riofrío: Facultad de Emprendimiento, Negocios y Economía, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Samborondon 0901952, Ecuador
Olga Roa: Research Center, EQ-Lab, Guayaquil 090514, Ecuador
Jonathan Valderrama-Álvarez: Facultad de Emprendimiento, Negocios y Economía, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Samborondon 0901952, Ecuador

Economies, 2024, vol. 12, issue 9, 1-30

Abstract: Women entrepreneurs in rural Ecuador face significant obstacles, including limited access to education, financial services, and business networks. Despite their vital role in the economy, gender inequalities hinder their success. This study protocol aims to evaluate the impact of a tailored business training program designed to empower rural women entrepreneurs and promote sustainable economic development. Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Quality Education (Goal 4), Gender Equality (Goal 5), and Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8), the program will assess improvements in women’s agency, confidence, and business performance. Key results include a 54% increase in perceived self-efficacy and a 200% increase in locus of control observed in the pre-pilot phase, indicating enhanced decision-making capacities and program effectiveness. Expected improvements in business performance will be measured by sales figures and financial growth, with anticipated positive impacts on SDG 8. The program will also track participation rates, with high enrollment and completion rates contributing to SDG 4. Additionally, financial stability and the number of engaged suppliers will be monitored, supporting SDG 8. By incorporating additional structural interventions, the study will offer insights into enhancing the empowerment of rural women entrepreneurs, creating a holistic impact that fosters both individual and community development.

Keywords: women entrepreneurs; economic empowerment; gender inequality; emerging economies; Sustainable Development Goals (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: E F I J O Q (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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