Unpacking the factors that support women’s entrepreneurship: a critique and exploration of new avenues using a fsQCA approach

Purpose The increased number of women in business is having a favourable effect on the economy, particularly in emerging nations. This work aims to explore female entrepreneurs' routes to success, emphasising the importance of identifying gender-specific elements that support successful entrepreneurship. Design/methodology/approach Enabling factors for women’s entrepreneurship were identified from the past academic literature. Different combinations of success characteristics are analysed using “fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA)” to identify unique pathways to female entrepreneurs' success. The data were collected from women entrepreneurs through the questionnaire-based survey. Findings The study highlights the significance of emotional intelligence, collaborative leadership, risk management, adaptability and resilience, customer-centric approach, diversity and inclusivity, long-term vision for sustainable growth, community engagement and social impact. The practical implications highlight the strategic significance of developing inclusive leadership practices, encouraging diversity and resilience and prioritising long-term vision and community involvement in women-owned firms. Practical implications The results show that various gender-specific factors affect women entrepreneurs' success in the marketplace. This provides actionable insights into the complex nature of women’s entrepreneurship and offers practical advice for stakeholders looking to establish inclusive and supportive ecosystems that foster social impact, sustainable growth and innovation in the business world. Originality/value This study stands out for its unique approach to advancing the theoretical understanding of the complexities surrounding women’s entrepreneurship in the Indian context. Through rigorous analysis and extensive research, it sheds light on the various challenges, opportunities and dynamics that shape the landscape of women’s entrepreneurial endeavours in India. Furthermore, the study delves into the sociocultural, economic and institutional factors that influence women’s participation in entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights for policymakers, researchers and practitioners seeking to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for women entrepreneurs in India.