Factors affecting the performance of micro-level women entrepreneurs: a comparative study between UAE and India

Purpose The study investigates the impact of various factors that affect the business performance of micro-level women entrepreneurs in the UAE and India. Design/methodology/approach A conceptual model including the factors that impact the performance of micro-level women entrepreneurs is proposed. The proposed model was validated with data collected through a structured questionnaire based on a cross-sectional survey conducted in the UAE and India. The collected data was analyzed using the structural equations modeling approach. Findings Findings revealed that factors such as competitive aggressiveness, incubation, innovativeness, market orientation and risk-taking propensity have a positive impact on business performance and growth in both countries. Factors like training, learning and finance orientation did not affect business performance. Originality/value Gender plays an essential and influential role in developing countries with regard to entrepreneurship. This research attempts to uncover the often-neglected area of women entrepreneurship.