Success factors of women owned micro and small enterprises in India

The role of women in economic growth is underestimated, primarily due to myopic view of looking at their endeavours. The current paper envisages exploring the factors that contribute to the success of women entrepreneurs especially in the context of micro and small enterprises. The paper is empirical in nature using survey method with the help of structured questionnaire. The data has been analysed using multiple regression analysis. As an outcome of data analysis five factors emerge as predictors of success of women entrepreneurs, viz. social environment, technology support, family support, gender segregation and education. Most astonishing finding was that the role of government in their success was not accepted by these women. The government has to relook its policies, especially in terms of their accessibility and reach. The social environment has emerged as the most significant predictor of women entrepreneur's success, hence NGOs and social bodies have to enhance the process.