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Exploring Barriers and Enablers for Women Entrepreneurs in Urban Ireland: A Qualitative Study of the Greater Dublin Area

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  • Marcus Goncalves

    (Boston University Metropolitan College, Boston, MA 02215, USA)

  • Megan Trainor

    (Boston University Metropolitan College, Boston, MA 02215, USA)

  • Andreana Ursini

    (Boston University Metropolitan College, Boston, MA 02215, USA)

Abstract

This research investigates the pivotal role of women’s entrepreneurship in urban Ireland. Utilizing a demand–constraint–choice framework for analysis, it explores the diverse motivations behind Irish women’s entrepreneurial ventures, emphasizing the impact of time- and place-specific factors. The study also assesses gender equality and disparities. This qualitative research presents a comparative analysis of motivations, perceptions, and experiences conducted through semi-structured interviews in Ireland’s diverse cultural and economic contexts. The findings highlight the influence of cultural factors on women’s entrepreneurial choices and the significance of government support systems. They underscore the necessity of proactive government intervention for gender-inclusive economic development, offering insights applicable beyond Ireland. Valuable for policymakers, researchers, and entrepreneurs, the findings enhance understanding of women’s entrepreneurial leadership, contributing to global strategies for empowering women in entrepreneurship. Several policy recommendations are provided.

Suggested Citation

  • Marcus Goncalves & Megan Trainor & Andreana Ursini, 2025. "Exploring Barriers and Enablers for Women Entrepreneurs in Urban Ireland: A Qualitative Study of the Greater Dublin Area," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 14(7), pages 1-36, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:14:y:2025:i:7:p:412-:d:1691067
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Muhammad Abrar ul Haq & Surjit Victor & Farheen Akram, 2021. "Exploring the motives and success factors behind female entrepreneurs in India," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 55(3), pages 1105-1132, June.
    2. Saira Begum & Muhammad Ashfaq & Enjun Xia & Usama Awan, 2022. "Does green transformational leadership lead to green innovation? The role of green thinking and creative process engagement," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 31(1), pages 580-597, January.
    3. Brush, Candida G. & Greene, Patricia G. & Welter, Friederike, 2020. "The Diana project: a legacy for research on gender in entrepreneurship," Working Papers 02/20, Institut für Mittelstandsforschung (IfM) Bonn.
    4. Alberto Chong & Irene Velez, 2020. "Business training for women entrepreneurs in the Kyrgyz Republic: evidence from a randomised controlled trial," Journal of Development Effectiveness, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 12(2), pages 151-163, April.
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