Published Paper Details:

Digital entrepreneurship has emerged as a powerful tool for empowering women and driving sustainable development, particularly in regions like India and Africa. Despite significant advancements in digital technologies, women in these regions continue to face systemic barriers such as limited access to digital tools, financial resources, and socio-cultural constraints. This paper examines how digital entrepreneurship can bridge the gender gap in these regions, fostering inclusive growth and contributing to sustainable development. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of existing government and industry reports with qualitative interviews of women entrepreneurs, policymakers, and stakeholders in India and Africa. The findings highlight several key enablers for women in digital entrepreneurship, including the expansion of mobile technology, financial technologies (FinTech), and targeted skill development initiatives. However, persistent barriers such as the digital divide, gendered socio-cultural norms, and inconsistent policy implementation continue to hinder progress. In India, the widespread adoption of mobile technology has facilitated access to markets and financial inclusion, yet deep-rooted gender norms and familial responsibilities remain significant obstacles. In Africa, while digital inclusion initiatives have expanded, infrastructural challenges like unreliable electricity and internet connectivity, coupled with high levels of illiteracy, impede women's entrepreneurial potential. The paper proposes several policy implications to address these challenges, including enhancing digital infrastructure, creating gender-focused training programs, facilitating access to finance, promoting awareness to challenge gender norms, and fostering cross-regional collaboration. The study concludes that while both India and Africa have made strides in promoting women's digital entrepreneurship, further investments in infrastructure, policies, and education are crucial for achieving long-term sustainability and bridging the gender gap. A comparative, cross-regional approach is key to scaling successful initiatives and ensuring the empowerment of women in the digital economy.