The Importance of the Innovation Ecosystem for Sustainable Women's Empowerment: The Rede Próspera Mulheres Empreendedoras Project

Objective: The aim of this study was to highlight the importance of the innovation ecosystem for sustainable female empowerment, focusing on the applicability of the Rede Prospera Mulheres Empreendedoras extension project. This project was developed at the State University of Central-West (Unicentro) through a partnership with the State Secretariat of Science, Technology, and Higher Education of Paraná (Seti), via the Universidade Sem Fronteiras (USF) Program, in 2024, in municipalities classified with a low Human Development Index (HDI), particularly in Reserva do Iguaçu, Paraná. The initiative supports and strengthens entrepreneurship among women in situations of social vulnerability. Theoretical Framework: Some foundational theories for the research are presented, with a focus on scientific journals addressing gender, empowerment, and female entrepreneurship, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) from the 2030 Agenda, enacted by the United Nations (UN, 2015), specifically emphasizing UN Women. Method: The methodology adopted includes developing business plans and providing mentorships, among other initiatives within the Rede Prospera Mulheres Empreendedoras project. Results and Discussion: The results support the encouragement of women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship, aiming at gender equality, autonomy, and socio-labor prosperity for women. Research Implications: It aims to provide insights that could influence the development of further projects on this topic and contribute to strengthening female empowerment and entrepreneurship. Originality/Value: This study contributes innovatively to the enrichment of the scientific literature on the researched topic, considering the importance of effectively establishing gender equality and equity in all sectors of society.