Profile of female entrepreneurship in pre-pandemic Latin America: trends and challenges

This study aims to analyze women’s entrepreneurial behavior in Latin America between 2010 and 2019, based on data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). The analysis excludes variables related to the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing instead on identifying trends and characteristics that inform the development of strategies to improve the business ecosystem for women in the region. A descriptive methodology was applied to a dataset of 180,302 survey responses from women in the 11 most representative countries in Latin America. Correlational statistical analysis and the formulation of a logit-probit model were carried out. Key variables such as country, age, education level, income, occupation, and motivation were examined in relation to total entrepreneurial activity (TEA). The study provides a comprehensive characterization of women's entrepreneurship in Latin America, revealing significant trends and correlations across demographic and economic factors. The findings highlight critical areas for intervention and provide actionable insights for designing more inclusive and supportive business ecosystems tailored to the needs of women entrepreneurs in the region. This study addresses a key issue in the socioeconomic context of the region by providing a perspective on women's entrepreneurship in Latin America, using over a decade of GEM data and statistical modeling to identify structural factors influencing women’s entrepreneurial activity. This analysis aims to inform strategies that foster inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystems.