Comparative analysis of the impact of COVID-19, the energy and economic crisis on female entrepreneurship in selected countries

This article explores the impact of the COVID-19, energy and economic crises on entrepreneurial activities, with a specific focus on the experiences of female entrepreneurs. It explores the experiences of female entrepreneurs with establishment, closure, and challenges of running a business during the COVID-19 pandemic, with special attention on the impact of energy and economic crises on their ventures. While energy crises can increase business costs, they also provide opportunities for various innovations, especially in alternative energy solutions. Economic crises drive individuals toward entrepreneurship as a means of income generation, requiring them to identify new opportunities and adapt to dynamic market conditions. Reduced competition and efficiency improvements can benefit resilient businesses. The EU has implemented measures to promote entrepreneurship, such as improving access to finance and supporting research and innovations but still missing greater support for female entrepreneurship. Gender inequality is still emphasized. Women entrepreneurs have been more affected by the pandemic due to their multiple responsibilities in the family and as business owners. The unequal distribution of workload, with women shouldering more household and childcare responsibilities, limits their ability to focus on their businesses. Consequently, women face disadvantages in thriving as entrepreneurs. Research conducted in Slovakia, Finland, Hungary, Spain, Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria provides insights into this issue. Studies in these countries represent diverse regions and examine the European Union's measures and initiatives for promoting entrepreneurship within the EU and neighboring countries. Addressing these challenges and creating a more equitable environment is essential for the success of women entrepreneurs.