Turizam Volume 30, Issue 3-5
WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN RURAL AREAS: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES AND CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
Authors: Jasmina Mlađenović, Elena Rudan
Abstract: Women’s entrepreneurship is recognized as an important driver of rural development worldwide. Rural entrepreneurship creates new opportunities for women and contributes to creating a better society. This paper aims to review challenges, opportunities and significance of rural women entrepreneurs across different regions of the world. Analysis shows that women in rural areas face similar challenges such as gender discrimination, limited access to education, capital, digital tools, institutional and social support. They often lack access to business skills development, trouble balancing work and family life, and need more opportunities for mentorship and networking. Overcoming those barriers can contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction by creating new jobs and generating income. Entrepreneurship enables them to gain confidence, strengthen their social status, challenge traditional rural and gender identities, and exercise creativity. Rural women support sustainability, innovation, cultural preservation and knowledge-sharing across generations. Overall, the paper confirms that strengthening women’s entrepreneurial capacities and removing structural barriers are essential for the sustainable development of rural areas.
Keywords: women’s entrepreneurship, rural areas, development, tourism
DOI: 10.5937/turizam30-68763
Article info: 242-255
Received: June 2026 | Accepted: September 2026